Electrosurgical instrument and electrosurgical device

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of electromagnetic energy to an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue from a generator unit for generating energy. The control unit includes a first output port configured to be electrically coupled to the first electrode; a second output port configured to be electrically coupled to a second electrode; a third output port configured to be electrically coupled to a third electrode; a first energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a first electrical circuit; a second energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a second electrical line; and a switching network configured to change a connection state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave and / or radio frequency energy from a generator unit to an electrosurgical instrument for generating radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy, the electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue.

[0002] The present invention further relates to a method for supplying microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy to electrosurgical instruments used for sealing and / or cutting tissue.

[0003] This invention relates to an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue. The electrosurgical instrument can be configured to grasp biological tissue and deliver microwave energy into the grasped tissue to seal the tissue by coagulation or ablation. The electrosurgical instrument can be used to apply pressure to close one or more blood vessels, followed by the application of electromagnetic radiation (preferably microwave energy) to seal the blood vessels. The electrosurgical instrument can also be arranged to cut (e.g., separate or dissect) the blood vessel or surrounding tissue after coagulation or sealing, for example using radio frequency (RF) energy, microwave energy, and / or mechanical cutting elements (such as blades). This invention is applicable to vascular sealers used in laparoscopic or open surgery and can be applied to endoscopic instruments.

[0004] The present invention further relates to an electrosurgical generator assembly for sealing and / or cutting tissue, the electrosurgical generator assembly comprising a generator unit and an electrosurgical control unit, the generator unit being used to generate radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy.

[0005] The present invention also relates to an electrosurgical device for sealing and / or cutting tissue, the electrosurgical device comprising an electrosurgical generator assembly and electrosurgical instruments. Background Technology

[0006] Electrosurgical instruments for delivering thermal energy into grasped biological tissue are known. For example, the delivery of microwave energy from a bipolar electrode arrangement in the jaws of a clamp is known. Microwave energy can be used to seal blood vessels by thermally denaturing extracellular matrix proteins (e.g., collagen) within the vessel wall. Thermal energy can also cauterize the grasped tissue and promote coagulation.

[0007] These devices are typically used at the tips of minimally invasive laparoscopic surgical instruments, but they can also be used in other clinical surgical fields, such as gynecology, endourology, gastrointestinal surgery, ENT procedures, or endoscopy. Depending on the context, these devices can vary in physical construction, size, scale, and complexity.

[0008] For example, gastrointestinal instruments may nominally have a 3 mm diameter and be mounted on the end of a very long, flexible shaft. In contrast, laparoscopic instruments can be used on the end of a rigid shaft or a maneuverable steel shaft with an industry-standard nominal diameter of 5 mm or 10 mm.

[0009] US 6,585,735 describes an endoscopic bipolar clamp, wherein the jaws of the clamp are arranged to conduct bipolar energy through tissue held between the jaws.

[0010] EP 2 233 098 describes a microwave clamp for sealing tissue, wherein the sealing surface of the jaws includes one or more microwave antennas for radiating microwave energy into tissue gripped between the jaws of the clamp.

[0011] WO 2015 / 097472 describes electrosurgical clamps in which one or more pairs of non-resonant, unbalanced, lossy transmission line structures are arranged on the inner surfaces of a pair of jaws. Summary of the Invention

[0012] In the most general sense, the present invention provides various types of electrosurgical instruments that enable precise tissue cutting and dissection. The invention further provides an electrosurgical control unit and an electrosurgical generator assembly for powering the electrosurgical instruments.

[0013] Electrosurgical instruments can provide additional functionality, such as using a constrained microwave field to seal biological tissues such as (blood) vessels, which can produce a well-defined seal with low thermal margin. For these additional functions, fewer device interchanges may be required during surgery.

[0014] The electrosurgical instruments disclosed herein can be used in any type of surgical procedure, but are particularly intended for use in non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures. For example, the devices can be configured to be introduced to the treatment site through the instrument channel of a surgical endoscopic device, such as a laparoscope or endoscope.

[0015] According to a first aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical control unit is provided for controlling the supply of microwave and / or radio frequency energy from a generator unit to an electrosurgical instrument, the generator unit being used to generate radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy, the electrosurgical instrument being used to seal and / or cut tissue. The electrosurgical control unit includes a first output port, a second output port, a third output port, a first energy input port, a second energy input port, and a switching network. The first output port is configured to be electrically coupled to a first electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, the first electrode being used to emit microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The second output port is configured to be electrically coupled to a second electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, the second electrode being used to emit microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The third output port is configured to be electrically coupled to a third electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, the third electrode being used to emit microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The first energy input port is configured to be electrically coupled to a first electrical circuit, the first electrical circuit transmitting the radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit. The second energy input port is configured to be electrically coupled to a second electrical circuit, the second electrical circuit transmitting the radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit. The switching network is configured to change the following connection states: (i) between the first energy input port and one of the first to third output ports and the other of the first to third output ports, and (ii) between the second energy input port and one of the first to third output ports and the other of the first to third output ports.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for supplying microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy to an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue. The electrosurgical instrument includes at least a first electrode for emitting microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrode for emitting microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, and a third electrode for emitting microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy. The method includes the steps of: (a) supplying microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy to a group of the first, second, and / or third electrodes in a first mode, and (b) supplying microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy to different groups of the first, second, and / or third electrodes in a second mode.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue is provided. The electrosurgical instrument includes an instrument shaft, a first jaw, a second jaw, a first electrode, a second electrode, a third electrode, and a transmission line. The first jaw is attached to the instrument shaft and includes a first surface. The second jaw is attached to the instrument shaft and includes a second surface. The first electrode is configured to emit microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The second electrode is configured to emit microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The third electrode is configured to emit microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The transmission line extends in the instrument shaft for transmitting microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy. The first and second jaws are movable between an open position and a closed position, in which tissue can be inserted between the first and second surfaces, and in the closed position, the first and second surfaces converge to clamp the tissue between them. The transmission line includes a first electrical line, a second electrical line, and a third electrical line. The first electrical line is electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave and / or radio frequency energy. A second electrical line is electrically connected to the second electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to the second output port of the electrosurgical control unit. A third electrical line is electrically connected to the third electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to the third output port of the electrosurgical control unit.

[0018] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical generator assembly for sealing and / or cutting tissue is provided. The electrosurgical generator assembly includes a generator unit for generating radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy, and an electrosurgical control unit as described herein.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical device for sealing and / or cutting tissue is provided. The electrosurgical device includes a generator assembly as described herein, and electrosurgical instruments as described herein.

[0020] The first electrode can have a dual function of emitting microwave and radio frequency energy. When the first electrode is the active electrode for radio frequency cutting, the second and / or third electrodes can act as return electrodes. Furthermore, the first and second electrodes can seal tissue by emitting microwave electromagnetic energy.

[0021] The above configuration can be regarded as a first connection state or a first mode for supplying microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy to the group of first electrodes, second electrodes and / or third electrodes.

[0022] In a second connection state or second mode for supplying microwave and / or radio frequency energy to the group of first, second, and / or third electrodes, the first electrode may act as a return electrode when the second and / or third electrodes are the active electrodes for radio frequency cutting. Other connection states or other groups of electrodes subjected to microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy are possible.

[0023] The electrosurgical control unit allows for changes in connection status and thus facilitates alterations in the function of the first through third electrodes. Compared to conventional electrosurgical systems where each electrode can be switched on or off (and / or the power supply can be changed), the electrosurgical control unit allows for switching the purpose or function of the first through third electrodes. For example, microwave sealing and / or radiofrequency ablation may be more efficient between the first and second electrodes for a particular type of tissue, while for another type of tissue, it may be more efficient. Therefore, the electrosurgical control unit makes microwave sealing and / or radiofrequency ablation more versatile.

[0024] This advantageous functionality can be achieved when each electrode (or group of electrodes) of the electrosurgical instrument is coupled to the electrosurgical control unit via a separate electrical line. For example, each electrode (or group of electrodes) is connected to a different conductor of a coaxial cable and / or a different wire of a transmission line.

[0025] The first and / or second energy input ports may include one or more connectors, plugs, sockets, etc., for connecting the respective ports to a transmission line for delivering and / or supplying electromagnetic energy from the generator unit to the electrosurgical control unit. For example, the first and second energy input ports may provide connections to the inner and outer conductors of a coaxial cable, for example, for supplying microwave and / or radio frequency energy. Alternatively, the first and second energy input ports may each provide connections to a respective wire, for example, for supplying radio frequency energy.

[0026] The first, second, and / or third output ports may include one or more connectors, plugs, sockets, etc., for connection to a transmission line for delivering and / or supplying electromagnetic energy from the electrosurgical control unit to corresponding electrodes of an electrosurgical instrument. For example, the first and second output ports may provide connections to the inner and outer conductors of a transmitting coaxial cable, for example, for supplying microwave and / or radio frequency energy. Alternatively, the first and second output ports may each provide connections to corresponding wires on the transmission line, for example, for supplying radio frequency energy. The third output port may provide connections to additional wires on the transmission line, for example, for supplying radio frequency energy. The second output port may be neutral or grounded.

[0027] The following describes an example of a connection configuration: a first output port can be considered as an active port for providing microwave energy, and a third output port can be considered as an active port for providing radio frequency (RF) energy, while a second output port can be a ground port for both RF and microwave energy. This can be achieved by connecting the first output port to the inner conductor of the coaxial cable (i.e., to the first energy input port) and the second output port to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable (i.e., to the second energy input port). The third output port is also connected to the inner conductor of the coaxial cable (i.e., to the third energy input port). This connection configuration can serve to achieve microwave tissue sealing between the first electrode connected to the first output port and the second electrode connected to the second output port. RF cutting can be achieved between the third electrode connected to the third output port and the second electrode connected to the second output port. The generator unit can be configured to provide microwave electromagnetic energy before delivering RF electromagnetic energy.

[0028] Different connection states can be: the second output port is connected to the first energy input port, the first output port is connected to the second energy input port, and the third output port is also connected to the second output port. In this connection state, radio frequency cutting and microwave sealing can be achieved between the second electrode (connected to the second output port) and the first and third electrodes (connected to the first and third output ports, respectively).

[0029] Of course, other different connection states are possible by selectively connecting one of the first energy input port and the second energy input port to one or more of the first to third output ports. Optionally, the switching network is configured to change the following connection states: (i) between a subgroup of the first energy input port and the first to third output ports (i.e., one or more of the first to third output ports) and a different subgroup of the first to third output ports (i.e., one or more of the first to third output ports), and (ii) between a subgroup of the second energy input port and the first to third output ports (i.e., one or more of the first to third output ports) and a different subgroup of the first to third output ports (i.e., one or more of the first to third output ports).

[0030] Therefore, by changing the connection state, the application of microwave and / or radiofrequency energy by the electrosurgical instrument can be altered, for example, between which electrodes microwave sealing and / or radiofrequency ablation are achieved. This variation can help provide different sealing and / or ablation profiles (depending on which electrodes the sealing and ablation are achieved between), and / or more efficient tissue sealing and / or tissue ablation, as radiofrequency ablation and / or microwave sealing can be more efficient between specific electrode combinations, depending on tissue type or other factors. Thus, the electrosurgical control unit offers greater versatility in the application of microwave sealing and / or radiofrequency ablation.

[0031] A switching network may include one or more electrical switches, such as relays. For example, an electrical switch (or electrical switching device) may be placed between each energy input port and each output port. Various connection states can be achieved by connecting and / or disconnecting each switch.

[0032] For example, a switch network is configured to connect a first energy input port to a first output port, and is further configured to disconnect the first energy input port from the first output port. This functionality corresponds to a regular switch for turning the energy supply on and off, rather than a generator. However, the switch network is further configured to connect the first energy input port to a second output port and disconnect it from the second output port. Furthermore, the switch network is further configured to connect the first energy input port to a third output port and disconnect it from the third output port. The switch network can also be configured to connect the first energy input port to both the first and second output ports (e.g., by connecting corresponding switches between the first energy input port and the first output port, and between the first energy input port and the second output port).

[0033] The exemplary connection states described above between the first energy input port and the first to third output ports can also be applied to a second energy input port to be connected to the first to third output ports. For example, the second energy input port can be connected to the first and second output ports. Furthermore, the exemplary connection states described above can also be applied to the first energy input port and the second and third output ports, and / or the first energy input port and the first and third output ports. Additionally, optionally, the exemplary connection states described above can also be applied to the second energy input port and the second and third output ports, and / or the second energy input port and the first and third output ports.

[0034] Optionally, the switch network is configured to change the connection state between any one of the first input port and the first to third output ports and any other of the first to third output ports, and / or the switch network is configured to change the connection state between any one of the second input port and the first to third output ports and any other of the first to third output ports.

[0035] The electrosurgical control unit may include a housing. A first output port, a second output port, a third output port, a first energy input port, and / or a second energy input port may be arranged within or on the housing, such that the various ports are exposed and / or accessible. A switching network may be arranged within the housing and connected to the respective ports via one or more wires, coaxial cables, and / or other types of electrical connections.

[0036] In use, electrosurgical instruments can perform vascular / tissue sealing and / or vascular / tissue dissection. Vascular / tissue sealing generally involves applying pressure to compress the walls of a biological blood vessel together, followed by the application of some form of thermal energy. The first, second, and / or third electrodes use microwave electromagnetic energy to apply thermal energy to the clamped tissue. Pressure on the tissue can be applied by the first, second, and / or third electrodes (e.g., first and second surfaces) and / or other portions of the first and second jaws. The applied electromagnetic energy damages / denatures tissue cells and forms a mixture of collagen, primarily present in the vascular / tissue walls, which effectively binds the vascular / tissue walls together. Over time, postoperative cell repair and regeneration occur to further strengthen the seal.

[0037] Vascular / tissue dissection is the process of cutting through continuous biological blood vessels / tissue to separate them into two pieces. This is typically performed after the initial sealing of the blood vessels / tissue. Vascular / tissue dissection can be performed by a first electrode acting as the active electrode. Vascular / tissue dissection can occur at the same location as the sealing of the blood vessels / tissue.

[0038] A first electrode and a second electrode may be disposed on a first jaw. The first electrode may be exposed on a first insulating portion. A third electrode may optionally be disposed on a second jaw. Optionally, the first insulating portion electrically isolates the first electrode from the second electrode. The first insulating portion may be made of an elastically deformable material. The first electrode is attached to and supported by the first insulating portion such that the first electrode can move relative to the second electrode when pressure is applied to the first electrode. Optionally, the second electrode and the third electrode are disposed on opposite sides of the first electrode in a closed position and are electrically connected to each other.

[0039] In one connection state, the first electrode can have the dual functionality of emitting microwave energy and radio frequency energy. When the first electrode is the active electrode for radio frequency cutting, the second and / or third electrode can act as return electrodes. Furthermore, the first and second electrodes can seal tissue by emitting microwave electromagnetic energy.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the first electrode can be considered to be floating within the first isolation portion. In other words, the first electrode can be attached to the first jaws independently via the first isolation portion. For example, there may be no structural portion other than the first isolation portion that supports the first electrode on the first jaws.

[0041] Flexible electrical connectors (e.g., flexible wires) provide an electrical connection between the first electrode and the transmission line. Therefore, the first electrode is movable relative to the second electrode or other parts of the first jaw. This movement of the first electrode is associated with compression or stretching of the elastically deformable first insulating portion. For example, when pressure is applied to the first electrode to press it into the first insulating portion (e.g., when tissue is gripped between the first and second jaws), the first insulating portion is compressed, and the first electrode moves away from or relative to the second jaw (which may be fixed to the first jaw).

[0042] This reduces the pressure on the tissue when using microwave radiation to seal it. This is relevant, for example, if the first electrode protrudes from a first surface of the first jaw, resulting in higher pressure between the first electrode and the second jaw compared to other areas of the first surface and the second jaw. Furthermore, the compression of the first isolating portion provides a force that further compresses the tissue between the first electrode and the second jaw, which can aid in radiofrequency cutting. For example, due to the elastically deformable nature of the first isolating portion, the first electrode may be able to move toward the second electrode when pressure is applied. Additionally, due to the resilient nature of the first isolating portion, it may exert a reaction force or return force, thereby causing the first electrode to move away from (or be biased) from the second electrode.

[0043] The term "elastic" describes a body or material that is able to resist torsional effects and can return to its original size and shape after the effects or force are removed. When a solid body is subjected to a sufficient load, the solid body will deform; if the material is elastic, the object will return to its initial shape and size after the load is removed.

[0044] The second and third electrodes may each provide a half-shell to confine the microwave energy emitted by the first electrode within it. In the closed position, the first electrode may be sandwiched between the second and third electrodes, or may be (completely) surrounded by the second and third electrodes. The second jaw may include a second isolation portion that electrically isolates the first and third electrodes in the closed position.

[0045] Optionally, the first electrode is exposed on the first isolation portion. The first electrode may include a ridge or strip made of a conductive material. The first electrode may protrude from the first isolation portion. This means that the first electrode is not flush with the first isolation portion. The second jaw may contact the first electrode but not the first isolation portion. This results in tissue clamped between the first and second jaws being compressed more at the first electrode than at the first isolation portion. This can help to locally increase the pressure used for radiofrequency cutting at the site of the radiofrequency cutting. However, as described above, the elastic compression of the first isolation portion can counteract this effect.

[0046] The first electrode may be flush with the first insulating portion. In this case, the region of the first surface surrounding the first electrode may be raised relative to the rest of the first surface. For example, in a cross-sectional view, the first insulating portion is at an angle. In this embodiment, the raised region of the first insulating portion and the first electrode may be moved / compressed as described above.

[0047] However, other configurations, shapes, and / or arrangements of the first to third electrodes are possible.

[0048] In this document, the terms "proximal" and "distal" refer to the ends of electrosurgical instruments, shafts, and / or coaxial transmission lines that are further away from and closer to the treatment site, respectively. Therefore, in use, the proximal end is closer to the generator unit used to provide RF and / or microwave energy, while the distal end is closer to the treatment site, i.e., the patient.

[0049] Unless the context otherwise indicates, the term “conductive” in this article means electrically conductive.

[0050] The term "longitudinal" as used below refers to the direction along the axis of the instrument channel, parallel to the coaxial transmission line. The term "lateral" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The term "inner" means radially closer to the center of the instrument channel (e.g., the axis). The term "outer" means radially further away from the center of the instrument channel (the axis).

[0051] The term "electrosurgical" is used in relation to instruments, devices, or tools used during surgical procedures that utilize (bipolar) radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic (EM) energy and / or microwave EM energy. Herein, RF EM energy may refer to a stable, fixed frequency in the range of 10 kHz to 300 MHz, preferably in the range of 100 kHz to 5 MHz, and more preferably in the range of 360 kHz to 440 kHz. Microwave EM energy may refer to electromagnetic energy having a stable, fixed frequency in the range of 300 MHz to 100 GHz. RF EM energy should have a frequency high enough to prevent the energy from causing nerve stimulation. In use, the amplitude of the RF EM energy and the duration of application of said energy can be selected to prevent the energy from causing tissue whitening or unnecessary thermal excess or damage to tissue structures. Preferred point frequencies of RF EM energy include any one or more of the following: 100 kHz, 250 kHz, 400 kHz, 500 kHz, 1 MHz, and 5 MHz. Preferred frequencies for microwave EM energy include 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, 5.8 GHz, 14.5 GHz, and 24 GHz. 2.45 GHz and / or 5.8 GHz are preferred.

[0052] Microwave and radio frequency electromagnetic energy can be transmitted along a common signal path passing through the instrument shaft. For example, a coaxial cable can provide a common signal path for transmitting both microwave and radio frequency energy. In this arrangement, the transmission line may include an inductive filter to block microwave energy from the cutting element and a capacitive filter to block radio frequency energy from the first and second electrodes. In an alternative arrangement, radio frequency and microwave energy are transmitted along separate paths within the instrument shaft (the transmission line includes separate paths), wherein the inductive and capacitive filters are located at the proximal end of the instrument shaft, for example, in the handle. For example, a coaxial cable is provided to transmit microwave electromagnetic energy, while two or more electrical lines are provided to transmit radio frequency electromagnetic energy.

[0053] However, each electrode of an electrosurgical instrument that is electrically isolated from another electrode may have a separate conductor in the transmission line. This means that each conductor of the respective electrode is also electrically isolated within the transmission line. In other words, the first to third electrodes may be electrically isolated from each other both on the jaws and within the transmission line. However, it is also possible that the first to third electrodes are electrically isolated only within the transmission line, but the subgroup of the first to third electrodes may not be electrically isolated on the jaws. For example, the second and third electrodes may be in electrical contact with each other in the open and / or closed positions.

[0054] For example, a transmission line may include one or more coaxial cables and / or one or more conductors. The inner conductor of the coaxial cable (example of an electrical circuit) is electrically connected to a first electrode, and the outer conductor of the coaxial cable (example of an electrical circuit) is connected to a second electrode. The conductors (example of an electrical circuit) may be connected to a third electrode. Alternatively, the transmission line may include two coaxial cables. The inner conductor of a first coaxial cable (example of an electrical circuit) is connected to the first electrode, and the outer conductor of the first coaxial cable (example of an electrical circuit) is connected to the second electrode. The inner conductor of a second coaxial cable (example of an electrical circuit) is connected to the third electrode, and the outer conductor of the second coaxial cable (example of an electrical circuit) is connected to the second electrode.

[0055] The instrument shaft can be sized to fit within the instrument channel of a surgical endoscopic device. The surgical endoscopic device can be a laparoscope or an endoscope. Surgical endoscopic devices typically include an insertion cannula, which is a rigid or flexible (e.g., manipulable) catheter introduced into the patient's body during invasive surgery. The insertion cannula may include an instrument channel and an optical channel (e.g., for transmitting light to illuminate the treatment site at the distal end of the insertion cannula and / or to capture an image of the treatment site). The instrument channel may have a diameter suitable for receiving invasive surgical instruments. The diameter of the instrument channel may be equal to or less than 13 mm, preferably equal to or less than 10 mm, and more preferably (especially for flexible insertion cannulas) equal to or less than 5 mm.

[0056] The instrument shaft and transmission lines can be flexible, allowing them to be inserted into the instrument channel of the endoscopic device. Furthermore, the transmission lines can be arranged within the lumen of the shaft. The instrument shaft can cover and / or shield the transmission lines. The transmission lines can extend from the distal end to the proximal end of the electrosurgical instrument. In particular, the transmission lines electrically connect the first and second electrodes to the generator unit. The transmission lines can extend outside the instrument shaft, for example, to connect the transmission lines to the generator and / or electrosurgical control unit. Additionally, components of the transmission lines can be arranged outside the instrument shaft, for example, in the handpiece, close to the generator and / or electrosurgical control unit. Thus, in one embodiment, the transmission lines extend at least within or through the instrument shaft.

[0057] The electrosurgical instruments discussed in this article can be applied to other tissue welding techniques. For example, energy delivery structures can be used as an alternative to staples. In some abdominal surgeries, staple guns are used for 50 to 100 small staples, which are fired simultaneously between jaws that can be 70 mm or longer, or simultaneously from a ring-jaw arrangement with a diameter of 20 mm to 50 mm. In this type of application, multiple antenna structures (such as those discussed herein) can be used to cover the required length. The antenna structures can be arranged in any number of arrays to be activated simultaneously, sequentially, or progressively in a suitable manner.

[0058] The first jaw and / or the second jaw may be movable relative to its instrument shaft. The first jaw and / or the second jaw may be attached to the instrument shaft via a joint or hinge. The joint may include a pivot axis about which the first jaw and / or the second jaw may rotate. The first jaw and / or the second jaw may be activated by one or more actuator rods or control lines respectively connected to the first jaw and / or the second jaw. One or more actuator rods or control lines may extend within the instrument shaft to the proximal end of the electrosurgical instrument. One or more actuator rods may be connected to a handle, through which the first jaw and / or the second jaw may be actuated (e.g., opened and / or closed). The electrosurgical instrument includes an actuation mechanism that converts the reciprocating movement of the actuator rods or control lines into rotational movement of the first jaw and / or the second jaw.

[0059] For example, both jaws may be movable, such as rotatable about a (common) pivot axis. In another embodiment, one of the jaws is fixed to a shaft, and the other jaw is movable relative to said one jaw.

[0060] In the open position, the first jaw and the second jaw are spaced apart (to the maximum extent) such that there is free space between the first surface of the first jaw and the second surface of the second jaw. In this way, tissue can be inserted between the first and second surfaces in the open position. Typically, in the open position of the first and second jaws, the first and second jaws are moved toward the tissue, pushing the tissue into the space between the first and second surfaces.

[0061] By moving the first jaw and / or the second jaw from the open position to the closed position, tissue between the first surface and the second surface can be grasped and / or clamped between the first surface and the second surface. In this manner, in the closed position, tissue can be secured between the first surface and the second surface. The first surface and the second surface are the faces of the first jaw and the second jaw facing each other in the open and / or closed positions, respectively. In the closed position, tissue contacts the first surface and the second surface.

[0062] The pair of jaws may be pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the coaxial transmission line. In one example, the pair of jaws includes: a stationary jaw fixed relative to the instrument shaft; and a movable jaw pivotally mounted relative to the stationary jaw to open and close a gap between opposing inner surfaces. An energy delivery structure may be disposed on the inner surface of the stationary jaw. In another example, the two jaws are arranged to pivot relative to the instrument shaft, for example in a symmetrical clamp or scissor arrangement. The relative movement of the pair of jaws can be controlled from a handle at the proximal end of the instrument shaft. A control lever or control line may pass through the instrument shaft to operatively couple an actuation mechanism on the handle to the pair of jaws.

[0063] In another example, the pair of jaws may be arranged to move relative to each other in a manner that maintains their inner surfaces in an aligned (e.g., parallel) orientation. This configuration may be desirable for maintaining uniform pressure on the grasped tissue along the length of the jaws. An example of such a closing mechanism is disclosed in WO 2015 / 097472.

[0064] The first jaw and / or the second jaw may have a Maryland configuration. This may include the first jaw and the second jaw not being straight but bent / curved, for example, forming an arc or S-shape in a side view.

[0065] In an optional embodiment, the electrosurgical control unit further includes a sensing unit configured to generate instrument information by sensing the state of the electrosurgical instrument, the tissue in the treatment area adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument, and / or the state of the tissue adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument when connected to one or more of the first to third output ports.

[0066] The sensing unit can be configured to measure capacitance, inductance, current, and / or voltage. For example, the sensing unit includes two electrodes, and the capacitance, inductance, current, and / or voltage between these two electrodes is measured. The sensing unit can be connected to first to third output ports via a switching network. Therefore, the sensing unit can be connected to first to third electrodes via a switching network. Thus, the sensing unit can be configured to sense the capacitance and / or inductance of one of the first to third electrodes, and / or the capacitance, inductance, current, and / or voltage between two of the first to third electrodes.

[0067] Furthermore, the sensing unit can be configured to measure the amount of microwave energy reflected at a reflection point between the generator unit and the target tissue. For example, the reflection point may correspond to a location where impedance mismatch exists. For example, this reflection point may be located between internal components of the generator, between the generator and the instrument, between internal components of the instrument, between the instrument and the tissue treatment area (e.g., at the first to third electrodes), and / or between different tissue types within the tissue treatment area.

[0068] All these measurements can be used to determine the state of the electrosurgical instrument. For example, the capacitance between the electrodes on the opposing jaws can vary depending on the degree of opening of the first and second jaws. Furthermore, the capacitance and / or inductance of one or more of the first to third electrodes can be used to sense whether tissue is near or in contact with the electrosurgical instrument in the treatment area. Additionally, changes in the current or voltage between two of the first to third electrodes can be used to determine the state of the tissue.

[0069] The sensing unit may include a memory and a controller that transforms measurement results into the state of the electrosurgical instrument, the presence of tissue in the treatment area adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument, and / or the state of tissue adjacent to or in contact with the electrosurgical instrument. For example, the sensing unit stores tables, algorithms, and / or mathematical functions for converting measurement results into instrument information.

[0070] The electrosurgical control unit may further include a display for showing instrument information. The conversion of measurement data (e.g., capacitance, inductance, voltage, and / or current) into instrument information may be performed by the controller of the electrosurgical control unit, as further described below. In this case, the sensing unit may be part of the controller, and / or a portion of the sensing unit may be provided by the controller.

[0071] In an alternative embodiment, the electrosurgical control unit further includes a controller coupled to and / or in data communication with the sensing unit and configured to control the switching network to change the connection state based on instrument information.

[0072] In an alternative implementation of the method, automatic switching from the first mode to the second mode depends on instrument information determined by measuring the electrical properties of one or more of the first to third electrodes. The instrument information may optionally include the degree of jaw opening of the electrosurgical instrument, the type of tissue in the treatment area adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument, and / or the progress of cutting and / or sealing the tissue.

[0073] The sensing unit can be configured to measure the electrical properties of one or more of the first to third electrodes. The electrical properties may include inductance, capacitance, current and / or voltage as described above.

[0074] The controller may be housed within the enclosure of the electrosurgical control unit. The controller can communicate with both the sensing units and the switching network to exchange data. The controller may include a processor and memory. The memory may store programs, algorithms, and / or applications that can be executed by the processor.

[0075] The controller can control the switching network based on instrument information. For example, the controller can prompt the switching network to change its connection state based on the degree of jaw opening (an example of the state of an electrosurgical instrument), the type of tissue adjacent to or in contact with the electrode, and / or the progress of radiofrequency cutting or microwave sealing (an example of the state of tissue adjacent to an electrosurgical instrument).

[0076] The controller can be configured to automatically prompt the switching network to change its connection state based on instrument information. This means that the operation of the switching network (e.g., changes in connection state) does not require user input. For example, the connection state for radio frequency cutting changes based on the opening degree of the first and second jaws.

[0077] For example, radio frequency (RF) cutting is achieved between the second and third electrodes when the jaws open beyond a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10°). This means that the switching network connects a first energy input port to a second output port and a second energy input port to a third output port. If the opening degree of the first and second jaws is detected to be below the predetermined threshold (e.g., 10° or 5°), the controller can be configured to automatically change the connection state to achieve RF cutting between the first and second electrodes. This means that the switching network connects a first energy input port to a first output port and a second energy input port to a second output port.

[0078] Therefore, the configuration of the controller to automatically switch the switching network from one connection state to another (or alternatively, automatically switch from a first mode to a second mode) is based on measurements of the physical parameters (e.g., electrical parameters) of the first to third electrodes. Thus, the electrosurgical control unit can autonomously change the connection state of the switching network without user input. Such automated control is particularly well-suited for surgical robot applications.

[0079] In an alternative implementation, the electrosurgical control unit further includes a user interface coupled to a switching network for manually changing the connection status.

[0080] In an alternative implementation, the method further includes switching from a first mode to a second mode based on user input.

[0081] The user interface may include one or more buttons, switches, dials, keys, and / or a touchscreen. The user interface may be located on the housing of the electrosurgical control unit, making it accessible to the user. The user interface may communicate with a switching network and / or a controller. User input to the user interface may generate one or more signals, which are forwarded to the controller, which then controls the switching network based on the signals generated by the user interface. Alternatively, user input to the user interface may generate one or more signals, which are directly forwarded to the switching network, which then changes the connection state based on signals received from the user interface.

[0082] Therefore, the user interface can be used to directly set or change the connection status. For example, a user of an electrosurgical instrument can operate the user interface to set and / or change the connection status of a switching network. In this way, the user can switch between a first mode and a second mode. For example, the user interface can allow setting electrical connections for each output port.

[0083] In addition to automatic control for changing connection status, a user interface is also provided. Therefore, the electrosurgical control unit allows manual selection of the connection status as a supplement to or alternative to automatic connection status changes. Furthermore, the user interface can be used to configure automatic connection status changes performed by the controller.

[0084] In an optional embodiment, the electrosurgical control unit further includes a third energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a third electrical line that transmits radio frequency electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit; and a fourth energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a fourth electrical line that also transmits radio frequency electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit. The first and second input ports are configured to receive microwave electromagnetic energy. The switching network is further configured to change the following connection states: (i) between the third energy input port and one of the first to third output ports to the other of the first to third output ports, and (ii) between the fourth energy input port and one of the first to third output ports to the other of the first to third output ports.

[0085] The third and / or fourth energy input ports may have the same characteristics, features, and / or alternative implementations as the first and / or second energy input ports. The provision of the third and fourth energy input ports allows for the input of more energy into the electrosurgical control unit. For example, a first generator may be electrically coupled to the first and second energy input ports, and a second generator may be electrically coupled to the third and fourth energy input ports. The first generator may be configured to generate microwave electromagnetic energy, and the second generator may be configured to generate radiofrequency electromagnetic energy. Therefore, the first and second generators can operate simultaneously to generate electromagnetic energy at two different frequencies. Using appropriate connection configurations, the electrosurgical instrument can simultaneously provide radiofrequency cutting and microwave sealing.

[0086] The first and third energy input ports can be connected to the generator's operating circuitry. The second and fourth energy input ports can be neutral or ground wires, i.e., lines connected to ground. The first and second energy input ports can form a coaxial connector (a connector for coaxial cables). The third and fourth energy input ports can be configured to connect to appropriate wires suitable for supplying radio frequency electromagnetic energy.

[0087] The switching network is configured to connect a third energy input port and / or a fourth energy input port to one of the first to third output ports, similar to the connection of the first energy input port and / or the second energy input port to one of the first to third output ports. Therefore, the aforementioned considerations, features, and alternative embodiments of the first and / or second energy input ports also apply to the third and / or fourth energy input ports.

[0088] In an optional embodiment, the sensing unit includes a first sensing port electrically coupled to a first pole of a microwave sensor; a second sensing port electrically coupled to a second pole of the microwave sensor; a third sensing port electrically coupled to a first pole of a radio frequency sensor; and a fourth sensing port electrically coupled to a second pole of the radio frequency sensor. Optionally, the switching network is further configured to change the following connection states: (i) between the first sensing port and one of the first to third output ports and the other of the first to third output ports; (ii) between the second sensing port and one of the first to third output ports and the other of the first to third output ports; (iii) between the third sensing port and one of the first to third output ports and the other of the first to third output ports; and / or (iv) between the fourth sensing port and one of the first to third output ports and the other of the first to third output ports.

[0089] In an optional embodiment, the method further includes measuring the applied microwave and / or radio frequency energy by selectively connecting a first electrode, a second electrode, and / or a third electrode to a microwave sensor and / or a radio frequency sensor.

[0090] The microwave sensor of the sensing unit can be configured to detect changes in emitted microwave energy, for example, by measuring changes in the inductance and / or capacitance of one or more electrodes in an electrosurgical instrument. Furthermore, the microwave sensor can be configured to measure microwave energy reflected at the electrosurgical instrument and / or microwave energy at any point along the impedance change of the transmission line, the change indicating a change in emitted microwave electromagnetic energy. The microwave sensor may include two electrical lines and / or poles for measuring microwave electromagnetic energy. A first pole of the microwave sensor may be electrically connected to a first sensing port, and a second pole of the microwave sensor may be electrically connected to a second sensing port.

[0091] The radio frequency (RF) sensor of the sensing unit can be configured to detect changes in the emission of RF energy, for example, by measuring the current flowing between two electrodes. The RF sensor may include two electrical lines and / or poles for measuring RF electromagnetic energy. A first pole of the RF sensor may be electrically connected to a third sensing port, and a second pole of the RF sensor may be electrically connected to a fourth sensing port.

[0092] Therefore, the first sensing port and the second sensing port can be ports for providing measurements of microwave electromagnetic energy emission, and the third sensing port and the fourth sensing port can be ports for providing measurements of radio frequency electromagnetic energy emission.

[0093] As described above, in order to measure the emission of microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy, it is necessary to connect a microwave sensor and / or a radio frequency sensor to one or more of the first to third electrodes.

[0094] This is provided by a switching network that allows selective connection of one of the first to third electrodes to the first or second electrode of a microwave sensor and / or the first or second electrode of a radio frequency sensor.

[0095] Therefore, the switching network provides the additional functionality of selectively connecting microwave and / or radio frequency sensors to electrodes. This allows for changing and / or setting the electrodes of the electrosurgical instrument used for microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy measurements. For example, depending on the application of microwave and / or radio frequency energy (e.g., which electrodes are used), the electrodes used to measure and / or monitor the application of microwave and / or radio frequency energy can be appropriately selected. For example, if the first and second electrodes are used for the application of microwave energy, the connection of the third electrode to the first electrode of the microwave sensor can improve the accuracy and / or sensitivity of the microwave measurement because the third electrode does not participate in microwave sealing.

[0096] In an optional embodiment, the electrosurgical control unit further includes a fourth output port configured to be electrically coupled to a fourth electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, the fourth electrode being used to emit microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy; a fifth output port configured to be electrically coupled to a fifth electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, the fifth electrode being used to emit microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy; and / or a sixth output port configured to be electrically coupled to a sixth electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, the sixth electrode being used to emit microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy. Optionally, the switching network is further configured to change the connection state between each of the first to fourth energy input ports and / or the first to fourth sensing ports and between one of the first to sixth output ports and the other of the first to sixth output ports.

[0097] For electrosurgical instruments that include a fourth, fifth, and / or sixth electrode, a fourth, fifth, and / or sixth output port may be provided. The fourth, fifth, and / or sixth output ports may have the same optional features, characteristics, and / or functionality as the first, second, and / or third output ports.

[0098] The electrosurgical control unit can be configured to connect one of the first to fourth energy input ports and / or one of the first to fourth sensing ports to at least two of the first to sixth output ports.

[0099] In an alternative implementation, the electrosurgical control unit may be configured to connect any one of the first to fourth energy input ports and / or any one of the first to fourth sensing ports to any one of the first to sixth output ports.

[0100] In an optional embodiment, the electrosurgical instrument further includes a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and / or a sixth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy. Optionally, the transmission line further includes (i) a fourth electrical line electrically connected to the fourth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a fourth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave and / or radio frequency energy, (ii) a fifth electrical line electrically connected to the fifth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to the fifth output port of the electrosurgical control unit, and / or (iii) a sixth electrical line electrically connected to the sixth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to the sixth output port of the electrosurgical control unit.

[0101] For example, each electrode of an electrosurgical instrument is coupled to an electrosurgical control unit via a separate electrical line. However, it is also possible for two or more electrodes to be connected to the same electrical line. For example, the second and third electrodes are connected to the same outer conductor of a coaxial cable. In this case, the electrodes connected to the same electrical line may not be individually connected to one of the energy input ports via a switching network. Electrodes connected to the same electrical line can be considered as forming a single electrode, but on an electrosurgical instrument, the portion of a single electrode is physically separate. Returning to the example above, the second and third electrodes can be considered as a single electrode, such as a ground electrode. Electrodes connected to the same electrical line may be in electrical contact with each other, or may be movable to be in electrical contact with each other. For example, the second and third electrodes may be in electrical contact with each other in open and / or closed positions.

[0102] In an alternative embodiment, the first insulating portion is made of a material that is more elastic than the material used to make the first electrode and / or the material used to make the second electrode.

[0103] The first electrode and / or the second electrode may each be made of one or more materials that are more rigid (e.g., have higher rigidity) than the material (or materials) used to form the first insulating portion. Optionally, the portion of the first insulating portion that contacts and / or surrounds the first electrode is more flexible than the material used to form the first electrode and / or the second electrode.

[0104] Therefore, when pressure is applied to the first electrode, the first isolation portion or a portion thereof undergoes elastic deformation, while the first electrode and / or the second electrode do not undergo elastic deformation or undergo much less elastic deformation (e.g., 1%, 5%, or 10% deformation compared to the elastic deformation of the first isolation portion).

[0105] In an alternative embodiment, the first insulating portion is made of silicone resin.

[0106] Silicone resins or polysiloxanes are made of siloxanes ( R2Si O SiR2 The polymer is composed of (where R can be an organic group). The silicone resin and / or any other material suitable for the first insulating portion can be a rubber-like substance and can provide thermal and / or electrical insulation. Furthermore, the silicone resin used for the first insulating portion can provide non-stick properties, which can be understood as reducing, or providing less adhesion between, the silicone resin material used to form the first insulating portion and the tissue in contact with the first insulating portion compared to other materials used for the first insulating portion.

[0107] The first insulating part may be made entirely or completely of silicone resin.

[0108] In an optional embodiment, the second electrode and / or the third electrode each include a channel. Optionally, a first isolation portion is disposed in the channel, and / or the first isolation portion is interlocked with the second electrode.

[0109] The second electrode may form the outer surface of the first jaw and / or provide a connection to the instrument shaft. Similarly, the third electrode may form the outer surface of the second jaw and / or provide a connection to the instrument shaft. The channels for the second and / or third electrodes may be provided by the shapes of the second and / or third electrodes, respectively. For example, the second and / or third electrodes may be half-shells. The channels may then correspond to the concave inner surface of the half-shell.

[0110] Alternatively, the second and / or third electrodes may be solid bodies having elongated slots or grooves forming channels. In a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the second and / or third electrodes may have a U-shaped shape. The side surfaces of the second electrode may be exposed at the first surface, and / or the side surfaces of the third electrode may be exposed at the second surface. For example, the side surfaces of the second electrode may be exposed at the first surface on each side of the first electrode.

[0111] The channel may extend longitudinally along the first jaw, the second jaw, and / or the shaft. The channel may be open or closed at the distal ends of the second electrode, the third electrode, the first jaw, and / or the second jaw. The channel of the second electrode may be filled with a first insulating portion to electrically insulate the first electrode disposed in the channel of the second electrode from the second electrode. Furthermore, a second insulating portion may be provided in the channel of the third electrode. Therefore, the channel of the third electrode may be filled with a second insulating portion to electrically insulate the third electrode from the fifth electrode disposed in the channel of the third electrode.

[0112] In an alternative embodiment, the electrosurgical device further includes a second isolation portion disposed on the second jaw.

[0113] The exposed surface of the second isolation portion on the second jaw may form a second surface, or a portion thereof. The second isolation portion disposed on the second jaw may be made of the same non-conductive material as the first isolation portion.

[0114] The first insulating portion is attached to the second electrode, for example, by adhesion and / or by form-fitting (positive fit, positive mechanical engagement, or positive interlocking). For example, one or more protrusions and / or one or more grooves are provided in the channel of the second electrode, providing undercut for the first insulating portion. When silicone is used for the first insulating portion, form-fitting can be used to attach the first insulating portion to the second electrode because silicone is non-stick, making the first insulating portion less suitable for adhesion to the second electrode. For example, the first insulating portion in a fluid state is poured into the channel of the second electrode and then cured or hardened, interlocking with one or more protrusions and / or one or more grooves provided in the channel of the second electrode. The second insulating portion can be attached to the third electrode in a similar or identical manner to the attachment of the first insulating portion to the second electrode (e.g., by form-fitting).

[0115] In an alternative embodiment, the first electrode (completely or entirely) is made of a conductive material and is interlocked with the first insulating portion.

[0116] The first electrode may have the shape of a rod or a strip. Typically, the first electrode may be an elongated body extending along the extension direction (longitudinal direction) of the first jaw and / or the second jaw. The first electrode may be made entirely of metallic material.

[0117] In an alternative embodiment, the first electrode includes at least one through-hole, which is filled with a first insulating portion.

[0118] The first electrode may include one or more through-holes that provide a form-fit attachment between the first electrode and the first insulating portion. For example, the first electrode is held within a channel of the second electrode without contacting the second electrode. The first insulating portion, in a fluid state, is then poured into the channel of the second electrode and subsequently cured or hardened, interlocking the first insulating portion with the first electrode. In this manner, the first insulating portion supports and secures the first electrode to the second electrode, while simultaneously providing electrical isolation between the first and second electrodes.

[0119] In an alternative embodiment, the first electrode includes a substrate and ribs disposed on the substrate to form a T-shape in a cross-sectional view of the first electrode. Optionally, at least a portion of the substrate on each side of the ribs and facing the second jaw is covered by a first insulating portion.

[0120] The substrate and / or ribs may each have an elongated shape and may be made of a plate or strip of a conductive material (such as metal). The substrate may be (permanently) attached to the ribs, for example, by welding. Alternatively, the substrate and ribs may be a single, integral component.

[0121] A segment or portion of the first electrode (e.g., a rib) may be exposed at the first surface. A substrate may be provided for interlocking the first electrode with the first insulating portion. For example, the substrate may protrude from one or both sides of the rib. For example, the width of the substrate may be greater than the thickness of the rib, wherein the width and thickness are measured in the same direction in the assembled state of the first electrode. The substrate may extend perpendicular to the rib. The substrate may be attached to the rib at one end, opposite to the end of the rib exposed at the first surface. The substrate may be fully embedded in the first insulating portion.

[0122] The substrate may be provided as a means of interlocking the first electrode with the first isolation portion, and may be provided as a replacement or supplement to the aforementioned one or more through holes. The substrate may have undercuts for the ribs.

[0123] The substrate may include a side surface facing the second jaw in the closed position. Another side surface of the substrate may face away from the second jaw in the closed position and / or may face the bottom of the channel of the second electrode. A portion of the side of the substrate facing the second jaw in the closed position is covered by a first isolation portion. This means that a section of the first isolation portion is disposed between the first surface and the side surface of the substrate. Thus, the first electrode interlocks with the first isolation portion using the substrate as an undercut.

[0124] Optionally, the first isolation portion may include a cavity in the extension direction of the first jaw, the cavity having a T-shape in cross-sectional view. A first electrode is disposed within the T-shaped cavity of the first isolation portion. As described above, the first isolation portion can be formed by pouring the (fluid) first isolation portion into the channel of the second electrode while holding the first electrode in its desired position (e.g., relative to the second electrode).

[0125] In an alternative embodiment, the fifth electrode is disposed on the second jaw. Optionally, the fifth electrode includes a substrate and ribs disposed on the substrate to form a T-shape in a cross-sectional view of the fifth electrode. Further optionally, the first electrode is fully embedded within the first isolation portion, and / or the fifth electrode is fully embedded within the second isolation portion.

[0126] In an exemplary embodiment, both the first electrode and the fifth electrode can be functional electrodes for microwave sealing. For example, the first electrode and the fifth electrode can be electrically connected to each other, or they can be electrically connected to the same conductor of the transmission line, such as the inner conductor of the coaxial cable of the transmission line.

[0127] The T-shaped fifth electrode may have the same characteristics, optional features, and / or optional embodiments as the T-shaped first electrode. Therefore, the same comments and / or assessments made in conjunction with the first electrode also apply to the fifth electrode. For the fifth electrode, the substrate provides undercuts for the ribs, such that the fifth electrode is supported by and attached to the second insulating portion.

[0128] Optionally, the first electrode and / or the fifth electrode may not be exposed on the first surface and / or the second surface, respectively. The first electrode and / or the fifth electrode may be completely immersed in, embedded in, and / or covered by the first and / or second isolation portions, respectively. Therefore, the first electrode and / or the fifth electrode may never come into contact with the tissue being grasped between the first and second jaws. This avoids the risk of the first electrode and / or the fifth electrode adhering to the tissue.

[0129] Furthermore, the first electrode and / or the fifth electrode may not be embedded in the first isolation portion and / or the second isolation portion, respectively. Instead, only thin sections of the first isolation portion and / or the second isolation portion cover the first electrode (e.g., the rib of the first electrode) and / or the fifth electrode (e.g., the rib of the fifth electrode), respectively.

[0130] Generally, the first electrode, the fourth electrode, and / or the fifth electrode can be completely embedded within the first isolation portion and / or the second isolation portion, such that the portion of the first isolation portion and / or the second isolation portion covering the corresponding electrode reduces the intensity of the emitted microwave energy by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, or 25% compared to the intensity of the microwave energy emitted by the corresponding electrode exposed at the corresponding first and second surfaces. Therefore, the first isolation portion and / or the second isolation portion can have a thickness on the corresponding electrode that attenuates the intensity of the emitted microwave energy by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, or 25%.

[0131] The reasons for covering the first, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes may be: (i) to reduce the intensity of microwave energy (i.e., without reducing the amount of actual power / energy transmitted to the tissue), and (ii) to provide a smooth and non-sticky contact surface for the tissue. This feature avoids: (i) deploying energy to too small and concentrated areas of the tissue (e.g., energy transmission can diffuse to some extent), and (ii) tissue heated by microwave radiation (sometimes referred to as cooked or charred tissue) sticking to the metal / material of the energy transmission electrode / focus source.

[0132] In an alternative embodiment, in the closed position, the ribs of the first electrode and the ribs of the fifth electrode are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0133] The ribs of the first electrode and the fifth electrode may each extend parallel to the longitudinal direction of the first jaw and the second jaw, respectively. However, unlike the previously described alternative embodiments, the first electrode (e.g., its ribs) and / or the fifth electrode (e.g., its ribs) may not be arranged in the middle between the exposed sections of the second and third electrodes, respectively. Instead, the extension lines of the first electrode (e.g., its ribs) and / or the fifth electrode (e.g., its ribs) may be offset relative to the centerline along the extension direction of the first jaw and / or the second jaw. Furthermore, in the closed position, the extension lines of the first electrode (e.g., its ribs) and / or the fifth electrode (e.g., its ribs) may be spaced apart from each other. For example, in the closed position, the first electrode and / or the fifth electrode may be rotationally symmetrical, for example, rotationally symmetrical about the centerline on the first and second surfaces.

[0134] Optionally, the first and second jaws rotate within the same plane. In other words, the axis of rotation of the first jaw can be parallel to or identical to the axis of rotation of the second jaw. During the rotation or movement of the first and second jaws from the open position to the closed position, the first electrode can move along a plane parallel to the plane along which the fifth electrode moves. In the closed position, the first and second electrodes are closest to each other but spaced apart by the distance of these planes.

[0135] The second electrode may be completely covered by the first insulating portion, and / or the third electrode may be completely covered by the second insulating portion. Optionally, the second and / or third electrodes may have an L-shaped shape in cross-sectional view. This differs from the U-shaped shape previously discussed with respect to the second and third electrodes separately. Therefore, the second and / or third electrodes may include only one segment exposed near the first and second surfaces (in the case where the second and / or third electrodes are completely covered by the first and / or second insulating portions, respectively) or at the first and second surfaces. In this case, this single segment of the second electrode can effectively provide a ground electrode for the fifth electrode, and / or this single segment of the third electrode can effectively provide a ground electrode for the first electrode.

[0136] In an alternative embodiment, the electrosurgical device further includes a second isolation portion disposed in the channel of the third electrode.

[0137] The second insulating portion may include the same features, properties, and / or alternative embodiments as the first insulating portion. For example, the second insulating portion is attached to the third electrode, for example, by adhesion and / or by form-fitting (positive fit, positive mechanical engagement, or positive interlocking). Optionally, one or more protrusions and / or one or more grooves are provided in the channel of the third electrode, providing undercut for the second insulating portion. When using silicone resin for the second insulating portion, form-fitting can be used to attach the second insulating portion to the third electrode because silicone resin is non-stick, making the second insulating portion less suitable for adhesion to the second electrode. For example, the second insulating portion in a fluid state is poured into the channel of the third electrode and then cured or hardened, interlocking with one or more protrusions and / or one or more grooves provided in the channel of the third electrode.

[0138] In an alternative embodiment, a fourth electrode is disposed on a first jaw, and / or a fifth electrode is disposed on a second jaw. Optionally, the fourth and / or fifth electrodes each have a U-shaped form in a cross-sectional view.

[0139] In an alternative embodiment, the end face of the fourth electrode is at least partially exposed on the first surface, wherein optionally, the exposed portion of the fourth electrode is offset relative to the first electrode. Alternatively or additionally, the end face of the fifth electrode is at least partially exposed on the second surface, wherein optionally, in the closed position, the exposed portion of the fifth electrode is offset relative to the first electrode.

[0140] For example, portions of the second, third, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes are plate-shaped and each includes two end faces. Optionally, the end faces form segments of the second, third, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes exposed on the first and second surfaces, respectively. The portions of the second and fourth electrodes are U-shaped or V-shaped in a cross-sectional view of the first jaw. Furthermore, the portions of the third and fifth electrodes are U-shaped or V-shaped in a cross-sectional view of the second jaw.

[0141] For example, the portion of the second and / or fourth electrode extending along the section of the first jaw where the first electrode is disposed may be plate-shaped. Other portions of the second and / or fourth electrode may have different configurations. For example, the proximal and / or distal end portions of the second and / or fourth electrode may have a shape different from a plate shape. This can be used to form the distal and / or proximal end portions of the first jaw. The end faces of the plate-shaped portions of the first, second, and / or fourth electrodes may be exposed sections on a first surface.

[0142] The portions of the third and / or fifth electrodes extending along the second jaw in the closed position opposite to the first electrode may be plate-shaped. Other portions of the third and / or fifth electrodes may have different configurations. For example, the proximal and / or distal end portions of the third and / or fifth electrodes may have shapes different from plate shapes. This can be used to form the distal and / or proximal end portions of the second jaw. The end faces of the plate-shaped portions of the third and / or fifth electrodes may be located in exposed sections on the second surface. The third electrode may be mirror-symmetrical to the second electrode, and / or the fifth electrode may be mirror-symmetrical to the fourth electrode.

[0143] The plate-shaped portions of the second, third, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes may have the shape of the letters U, V, or variations thereof in a cross-sectional view of the first jaw. For example, in a cross-sectional view, the first electrode and / or the first isolation portion may be arranged within a shape defined by a U-shape or a V-shape.

[0144] The first surface may include exposed portions of a first electrode, a second electrode, a first insulating portion, and / or a fourth electrode. The exposed portions of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first insulating portion, and / or the fourth electrode may be provided by corresponding end faces. The first electrode, the second electrode, and / or the fourth electrode are disposed within and / or above the first jaw. The first electrode, the second electrode, and / or the fourth electrode are made of a conductive material (such as metal) and are respectively connectable to the inner and outer conductors of the coaxial cable.

[0145] The second surface may include an exposed portion of the third electrode and / or an exposed portion of the fifth electrode. The third electrode and / or the fifth electrode are disposed within and / or above the second jaw. The third electrode and / or the fifth electrode are made of a conductive material (such as metal) and are respectively connected to the inner and outer conductors of the coaxial cable.

[0146] The fourth and fifth electrodes may be electrically connected to each other and / or electrically connected to the inner conductor of the coaxial cable. Furthermore, the second and third electrodes may be electrically connected to each other and / or electrically connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. Therefore, the fourth and fifth electrodes can be functional electrodes for emitting microwave energy to achieve microwave sealing, while the second and third electrodes can be grounding electrodes for confining the emitted microwave energy.

[0147] In an alternative embodiment, the fourth electrode forms the active electrode for emitting microwave radiation, and the second electrode is the counter electrode for emitting microwave radiation. For example, the fourth electrode is connected to the inner conductor of a coaxial cable, and the second electrode is connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable (e.g., using an electrosurgical control unit). Unlike previous embodiments, the third and / or fifth electrodes are grounded (e.g., using an electrosurgical control unit to electrically connect the third and / or fifth electrodes to ground). It has been found that the third and / or fifth electrodes can balance the microwave energy emission from the second and fourth electrodes, thereby providing a more uniform emission distribution along the axial direction of the first and / or second jaws.

[0148] In an alternative embodiment, the exposed portion of the fourth electrode is arranged between the exposed portions of the second electrode on the first surface, and / or the exposed portion of the fourth electrode is arranged between the exposed portions of the third electrode on the second surface.

[0149] The exposed portions of the second electrode and / or the fourth electrode may extend as lines on the first surface. Therefore, the exposed portions of the fourth electrode may be arranged between the exposed portions of the second electrodes. Thus, in a top view on the first surface, the exposed portions on the first surface, along lines perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first jaws, are: the end face of the second electrode, the end face of the fourth electrode, and the end face of the second electrode.

[0150] Similarly, the exposed portions of the third electrode and / or the fifth electrode may extend as lines on the second surface. The exposed portions of the fifth electrode may be arranged between the exposed portions of the third electrode. Therefore, in a top view on the second surface, the exposed portions of the second surface along lines perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second jaw are: the end face of the third electrode, the end face of the fifth electrode, the end face of the fifth electrode, and the end face of the third electrode.

[0151] The first electrode may also extend as a line on the first surface (this can form a cutting line). In embodiments without a fourth and / or fifth electrode, the exposed portions of the first and / or second electrodes define a sealed area. The second electrode may be electrically isolated from the fourth electrode via a first insulating portion. The third electrode may be electrically isolated from the fifth electrode via a second insulating portion.

[0152] The exposed portions of the second, third, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes are separated from each other on their respective surfaces. The exposed portions of the second and / or fourth electrodes may form (straight) lines, with the first electrode positioned between these lines. The exposed portions of the first isolation portion may be arranged between the (straight) lines of the first electrode and the exposed portions of the second electrode, and / or between the (straight) lines of the second electrode and the exposed portions of the third electrode. Therefore, in a top view of the first surface, the first electrode may be located between the exposed portions or end faces of the fourth electrode, and all exposed portions or end faces of the fourth electrode may be located between the exposed portions or end faces of the second electrode. Therefore, in a top view of the second surface, the exposed portions or end faces of the fifth electrode may be parallel to each other and located between the exposed portions or end faces of the third electrode.

[0153] Without a fourth electrode, the sealing area is defined as being configured to emit microwave energy at the exposed sections of the first and second electrodes. For example, in the case of RF cutting, the first electrode can be considered the active electrode, and the exposed section of the second electrode can be considered the return electrode. Furthermore, the exposed sections of the first and second electrodes can be dipole antennas for radiating microwave electromagnetic energy. In this case, RF cutting can also be performed between the first and second electrodes. Therefore, the sealing area of ​​the microwave seal and the RF cutting area (substantially) overlap or are almost identical.

[0154] When a fourth electrode is provided, the sealing region is defined as being configured to emit microwave energy at the exposed portions of both the fourth and second electrodes. For example, in radio frequency cutting, the fourth electrode can be considered the active electrode, while the exposed portion of the second electrode can be considered the return electrode. Furthermore, the exposed portions of the fourth and second electrodes can be dipole antennas for radiating microwave electromagnetic energy. The fifth and third electrodes may define the same sealing region as the fourth and second electrodes, but from different sides of the tissue being gripped between the first and second jaws.

[0155] The corresponding sealing regions are configured to emit microwave energy to tissue near or in contact with the exposed portions of the electrodes involved in the microwave sealing. The exposed portions of the first, second, third, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes are arranged such that tissue clamped and / or gripped between the first and second surfaces in the closed position contacts the exposed portions of the first, second, third, fourth, and / or fifth electrodes—in other words, contacts the sealing regions. This means that the sealing regions may have several functionalities. They can clamp or grip tissue (where the second surface serves as a mating portion), emit microwave energy, and / or emit radio frequency energy.

[0156] The maximum intensity of the emitted microwave energy is reached in the portion of the tissue that is in contact with or directly above the exposed portion of the active electrode. In particular, the intensity of the emitted microwave energy is highest at the corresponding edges or corners of the exposed portions of the active and return electrodes.

[0157] When a fourth and / or fifth electrode is provided, the sealing region is located between the exposed portions of the fourth and second electrodes and / or between the exposed portions of the fifth and third electrodes. Radio frequency cutting can be provided between the exposed portions of the first and fourth electrodes. In this case, the fourth electrode has a dual function as both an active electrode for microwave sealing and a counter electrode for radio frequency cutting. Because the first electrode is arranged between the exposed portions of the fourth electrode, the sealing region is offset relative to and / or does not overlap with the radio frequency cutting. This reduces or eliminates the risk that microwave sealing will completely dry the tissue at the first electrode, making RF cutting no longer possible.

[0158] The U-shaped or V-shaped forms of the fourth and / or fifth electrodes may respectively be provided to mate with the shapes of the first and / or second isolation portions. The fourth and / or fifth electrodes may be attached to and / or supported by the first and / or second isolation portions, for example, by means of their shapes.

[0159] In an alternative embodiment, the sixth electrode extends parallel to the first electrode on the first jaw to provide radio frequency cutting between the first electrode and the sixth electrode.

[0160] The sixth electrode may include the same optional characteristics, features, and / or implementations as the first electrode. For example, the sixth electrode may also be a floating electrode attached to and supported by the first insulating portion, such that the sixth electrode can move relative to the second / fourth electrode when pressure is applied to it.

[0161] The sixth electrode may extend parallel to the first electrode along the longitudinal direction of the first jaw. For example, the gap between the first electrode and the sixth electrode is constant along the extension direction of the first jaw. The sixth electrode may act as the counter electrode to the first electrode during radio frequency cutting.

[0162] In the absence of a fourth and / or fifth electrode, the first and sixth electrodes can serve as active electrodes for microwave sealing, while the second and / or third electrodes can serve as return electrodes for microwave sealing. In this case, the sealing region defined between the exposed portion of the second electrode and the first electrode, and the sealing region defined between the exposed portion of the second electrode and the sixth electrode, are spatially offset from the radiofrequency ablation region located between the first and sixth electrodes. The first and sixth electrodes can be positioned intermediately between the exposed portions of the second electrode. As described above, the spatial separation of microwave sealing and radiofrequency ablation reduces the risk of complete tissue drying during microwave sealing, thereby making radiofrequency ablation impossible.

[0163] The exposed sections of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and / or sixth electrodes can be used to measure the current between any two electrodes.

[0164] In an alternative embodiment, the fifth electrode is fully embedded within the second isolation portion, and / or the fourth electrode is fully embedded within the first isolation portion.

[0165] In this embodiment, the fourth and / or fifth electrodes may have the same configuration as described above, except that their end faces are not exposed at the first and second surfaces, respectively. Instead, the end faces of the first and / or second electrodes are also covered by the first and second insulating portions, respectively. In other words, the fourth and / or fifth electrodes are completely embedded or completely recessed within the first and second insulating portions, respectively. This reduces the risk of tissue adhering to the end faces of the fourth and / or fifth electrodes, as the corresponding end faces are covered by the non-adhesive material of the first insulating portion. Simultaneously, the fourth and / or fifth electrodes can function as active electrodes for emitting microwave energy, because microwave sealing can be achieved without direct contact between the tissue and the fourth and / or fifth electrodes.

[0166] In an alternative embodiment, the switching network is configured to provide a connection state in which the second electrode is electrically connected to the third electrode and the fourth electrode is electrically connected to the fifth electrode, such that microwave energy is generated between the pair of the second and third electrodes and between the pair of the fourth and fifth electrodes.

[0167] This embodiment involves the presence of a fourth and / or fifth electrode, which provides a sealing region for microwave sealing as described above. However, the embodiment with a first and a sixth electrode differs from the electrosurgical instrument described above, which only includes a first electrode, in that there is a further separation between microwave sealing and radiofrequency ablation. The presence of the sixth electrode ensures radiofrequency ablation between the first and sixth electrodes, both of which are spatially offset relative to the exposed portion of the fourth electrode, which provides the edge of the sealing region for microwave sealing. In other words, there is a gap extending in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the first jaw between the radiofrequency ablation region and the microwave sealing region located on either side of the radiofrequency ablation region. If only the first electrode is provided (i.e., without the sixth electrode), there is no gap between the radiofrequency ablation region and the microwave sealing region because the fourth electrode must function as both a counter electrode for radiofrequency ablation and an active electrode for microwave sealing. Therefore, the presence of the sixth electrode provides a clear separation between radiofrequency ablation (for radiofrequency ablation, the first and sixth electrodes are provided) and microwave sealing (for microwave sealing, the fourth and second electrodes are provided)—therefore, in this embodiment, neither electrode has dual functionality. This also simplifies the electrical connection between the corresponding electrode and the transmission line, since each electrode may only need to be connected to a single line / wire of the transmission line.

[0168] In an alternative embodiment, the first electrode and the sixth electrode are made of conductive material, and / or the sixth electrode is mirror-symmetrical to the first electrode.

[0169] In one embodiment, both the first electrode and the sixth electrode can be floating electrodes, as described above. The sixth electrode can be mirror-symmetrical along a line that runs longitudinally along the first jaw and extends between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0170] In one embodiment, the switching network can be configured to provide a connected state in which, for radio frequency (RF) cutting, the fifth electrode is the counter electrode of the first electrode. In this case, RF cutting can be facilitated between the first jaw and the second jaw. Furthermore, the first electrode and / or the fifth electrode can be active electrodes for microwave sealing; the second electrode and / or the third electrode can act as return electrodes.

[0171] In an optional embodiment, the first and / or sixth electrical lines comprise conductors. Optionally, the second and / or third electrical lines are the outer conductors of the coaxial cable. Furthermore, optionally, the fourth and / or fifth electrical lines are the inner conductors of the coaxial cable.

[0172] Optionally, the transmission line includes two coaxial cables and two conductors. The fourth electrical line may be the inner conductor of the first coaxial cable, and the second electrical line may be the outer conductor of the first coaxial cable. The fifth electrical line may be the inner conductor of the second coaxial cable, and the third electrical line may be the outer conductor of the first coaxial cable. The first and second coaxial cables can be configured to supply microwave electromagnetic energy that can be provided by the first generator. This means that, in the first connection state, the first energy input port and the second energy input port are respectively connected to the fourth output port and the second output port. Alternatively and additionally, in the second connection state, the first energy input port and the second energy input port are respectively connected to the fifth output port and the third output port. This allows the use of an electrode and / or a fifth electrode as the active electrode for microwave sealing to apply microwave sealing.

[0173] These two wires can be used to supply radio frequency electromagnetic energy along the transmission line. The first wire can be connected to the first electrode, and the second wire can be connected to the sixth electrode. A switching network can be configured to connect a third energy input port to the first output port and a fourth energy input port to the sixth output port. This allows for radio frequency cutting between the first and sixth electrodes as described above.

[0174] In an optional implementation, the electrosurgical control unit further includes an interface for receiving external information about the status of the electrosurgical instruments. Optionally, the controller is coupled to and / or communicates data with the interface and is configured to control the switching network to change its connection state based on external information.

[0175] In an optional embodiment, the electrosurgical instrument further includes a sensor configured to detect whether the first jaw and / or the second jaw is opened above a predetermined threshold. Optionally, the sensor is configured to be electronically coupled to an interface of the electrosurgical control unit.

[0176] The interface may include connectors, plugs, and / or sockets exposed on the housing of the electrosurgical control unit for connecting the electrosurgical control unit to an external device. Alternatively or additionally, the interface may include a wireless transmitter for establishing wireless data communication with the external device. Generally, the interface may be configured to provide data communication between the controller and the external device.

[0177] External information can be data received from an external device. External information may include information about the opening state of the first and second jaws, such as the degree of opening and / or whether the degree of opening is higher than a predetermined threshold.

[0178] External devices may include switches or sensors on electrosurgical instruments, which detect whether the opening degree of the first and second jaws exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, the switch or sensor may be located on the handle and activated when the first and second jaws are opened above the predetermined threshold.

[0179] External devices may be associated with a robot controller used to control the first and second jaws. For example, electrosurgical instruments may be controlled by a robotic device. The robotic device may transmit external information to the control device via an interface.

[0180] Generally, external information can be information about the status of electrosurgical instruments that is not acquired through the use of sensing units. External information can be used as a supplement to or alternative to instrument information.

[0181] Similar to how a controller uses instrument information to automatically control connection status, a controller can control the switching network based on external information.

[0182] In an optional implementation, instrument information provided by the sensing unit and / or external information provided via an interface are correlated with the opening degree of the jaws of the electrosurgical instrument. Optionally, the controller is configured to automatically change the connection state based on the jaw opening degree.

[0183] For example, the electrodes used for radio frequency (RF) cutting can be changed based on the opening degree of the jaws. Optionally, the controller is configured to automatically change the connection state between the third and fourth energy input ports and two of the first to sixth output ports based on the opening degree. For example, if the opening degree is higher than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10°), the third energy input port (e.g., connected to the active electrode of the RF generator) is connected to both the first and sixth output ports, while the fourth energy input port (e.g., connected to the return electrode of the RF generator) is connected to both the second and third output ports. Thus, when the jaws are "open," RF cutting is achieved between the two center electrodes (e.g., the first and sixth electrodes) and the housing (e.g., the second and third electrodes). It has been found that using these electrodes for RF cutting is more efficient when the jaws are "open."

[0184] For example, if the opening degree is below a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10°), the third energy input port (e.g., connected to the active electrode of the RF generator) is connected to the first output port, while the fourth energy input port (e.g., connected to the return electrode of the RF generator) is connected to the sixth output port. Therefore, RF cutting is achieved between the first and sixth electrodes when the jaws are "closed". It has been found that using these electrodes for RF cutting is more efficient when the jaws are "closed".

[0185] In an optional implementation, the controller is configured to automatically switch between a first connected state and a second connected state. Automated control can be helpful for surgical robot applications. In the first connected state, the switch network is configured to connect a first energy input port to both the fourth and fifth output ports and a second energy input port to both the second and third output ports. In the second connected state, the switch network is configured to connect the first energy input port to the fifth output port, the second energy input port to the third output port, the first sensing port to the fourth output port, and the second sensing port to the second output port.

[0186] In this example, in the first connection state, microwave electromagnetic energy is emitted from both jaws, thereby applying microwave energy from both sides of the tissue clamped between the first and second jaws. In this exemplary first connection state, the fourth and fifth electrodes can be acting electrodes. In this exemplary first connection state, the second and third electrodes can be counting electrodes. In this way, the tissue can be sealed from both sides.

[0187] Furthermore, in this example, in the second connection state, microwave electromagnetic energy is emitted only from one jaw (e.g., the second jaw). The fifth electrode is the active electrode, and the third electrode is the counter electrode. Microwave sensing is performed between the fourth electrode, which serves as the first pole, and the second electrode, which serves as the second pole. In particular, microwave energy transmitted from the second jaw to the first jaw can be detected.

[0188] Microwave sensing can be used to detect tissue type and tissue condition, such as the progress of microwave sealing. The controller can be configured to automatically and periodically switch between a first connection state and a second connection state, for example, to periodically check the tissue condition by switching to the second connection state and then returning to the first state to enhance microwave sealing.

[0189] In an optional implementation, the controller is configured to identify the type of tissue adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument based on instrument information. Optionally, the controller is further configured to control the switch network to switch to a predetermined connection state when a predetermined type of tissue is determined, the predetermined connection state optionally including (i) connecting a first energy input port to a fifth output port, (ii) connecting a second energy input port to a third output port, (iii) connecting a third energy input port to a fifth output port, (iv) connecting a fourth energy input port to a third output port, (v) connecting a third sensing port to both a first and a sixth output port, and (vi) connecting a fourth sensing port to a second output port.

[0190] In this exemplary connection configuration, the fifth electrode is the active electrode for both radio frequency (RF) cutting and microwave sealing, while the third electrode is the counter electrode for both RF cutting and microwave sealing. Therefore, microwave sealing and RF cutting are performed on the second jaw. Electrodes not used on the first jaw can be used for RF sensing using an RF sensor; for example, the first and second electrodes are connected to the first pole of the RF sensor, and the second electrode is connected to the second pole of the RF sensor.

[0191] This exemplary connection state can be advantageous for certain types of organizations that can be detected using the controller and sensing unit as described above.

[0192] The generator unit can be configured to generate electromagnetic energy at a fixed single frequency or multiple fixed single frequencies. Alternatively or additionally, the generator unit can be tunable to generate electromagnetic energy at various frequencies, for example, within a continuous frequency range between a minimum and a maximum frequency. The generator unit can be connected to a power supply that provides energy for generating radio frequency electromagnetic energy and / or microwave electromagnetic energy.

[0193] The generator unit may be electrically and / or electronically connected indirectly to a transmission line, for example, via an electrosurgical control unit. Optionally, the generator unit generates radio frequency energy and / or microwave energy, which is transmitted via the transmission line to one or more of the first to sixth electrodes, at which the radio frequency energy and / or microwave energy is radiated to the treatment site.

[0194] In an alternative implementation, the generator unit is configured to simultaneously generate microwave electromagnetic energy at a first frequency and microwave electromagnetic energy at a second frequency.

[0195] For example, the generator unit includes a generator configured to simultaneously generate electromagnetic energy of two different (fixed) frequencies.

[0196] Alternatively, the generator unit includes a first generator for generating electromagnetic energy at a first frequency (e.g., microwave frequency) and a second generator for generating electromagnetic energy at a second frequency (e.g., radio frequency).

[0197] The first generator can be connected to the first energy input port and the second energy input port. The second generator can be connected to the third energy input port and the fourth energy input port.

[0198] In an alternative implementation, the generator unit is configured to simultaneously or alternately generate microwave electromagnetic energy at a first frequency and radio frequency electromagnetic energy at a third frequency.

[0199] In an alternative embodiment, the electrosurgical control unit and the generator unit are arranged in a common housing. In this embodiment, the generator unit and the electrosurgical control unit may form a single component, for example, contained within the common housing. The generator unit can be controlled using a user interface.

[0200] In an alternative implementation, the electrosurgical control unit and the generator unit are separate components. In this implementation, the electrosurgical control unit can be connected to the generator unit. The electrosurgical control unit network can be a set-top box that can be used with existing generator units.

[0201] In an optional embodiment, the first surface of the first isolation portion, the second electrode and / or the fourth electrode, and the second surface of the first isolation portion, the second electrode and / or the fourth electrode are arranged on opposite sides of the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode, wherein the first surface and the second surface define an angle of less than 180° relative to each other.

[0202] For example, the first and second surfaces are defined at angles ranging from 100° to 180°, such as 120°, 150°, or 170°. The inclined configuration of the first and second surfaces increases the exposure of the first electrode, thereby further increasing the pressure exerted by the first electrode on the clamped tissue in the closed position.

[0203] The first surface may be (or only include) a portion of the first insulating portion exposed on the first surface on one side of the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode, and the second surface may be (or only include) a portion of the first insulating portion exposed on the first surface on the other side of the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode. In this embodiment, the first and second surfaces do not include the portion of the second electrode exposed on the first surface.

[0204] The exposed portions of the first isolation section (i.e., the first surface and / or the second surface) can be flat or planar. The first electrode can be arranged at the line where the first surface and the second surface will meet. Furthermore, the first surface and the second surface can be symmetrical about the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode. The exposed portions of the second electrode on the first surface can be flush with the first surface and / or the second surface, respectively.

[0205] Alternatively, the first and second surfaces may include portions of the first isolation portion, the second electrode, and / or the fourth electrode exposed on the first surface. Alternatively, the first and second surfaces may include portions of the second electrode and / or the fourth electrode exposed on the first surface. In this embodiment, the first and second surfaces do not include portions of the first isolation portion exposed on the first surface.

[0206] In an alternative embodiment, the second surface includes a third surface and a fourth surface. Optionally, the first surface is parallel to the third surface, and the second surface is parallel to the fourth surface. Alternatively, the angle defined by the first and second surfaces may be smaller than the angle defined by the third and fourth surfaces. Further alternatively, the third and fourth surfaces may define an angle of 180° relative to each other.

[0207] The third and fourth surfaces can be surface regions of the second surface that are respectively equivalent to the first and second surfaces. For example, the third surface has the same surface area as the first surface, and the fourth surface has the same surface area as the second surface. In the closed position, the first and second surfaces partially or completely contact the third and fourth surfaces, respectively. In the closed position, the first electrode may contact a line on the second surface that separates the third and fourth surfaces.

[0208] For example, the third and fourth faces are defined within the range of 100° to 180°, such as 120°, 150° or 170°.

[0209] The third surface may include the second isolation portion, the third electrode and / or the fifth electrode exposed on the second surface, and the fourth surface may include the second isolation portion, the third electrode and / or the fifth electrode exposed on the second surface.

[0210] The exposed portions (i.e., the third and / or fourth surfaces) of the second isolation portion, the third electrode, and / or the fifth electrode may be flat. Furthermore, the third and fourth surfaces may be symmetrical to each other. The portions of the third and / or fifth electrodes exposed on the second surface may be flush with the portions of the second isolation portion exposed on the second surface, respectively.

[0211] The first, second, third, and / or fourth surfaces can each be either flat or straight.

[0212] In an embodiment where the first and third surfaces are arranged in parallel and the second and fourth surfaces are arranged in parallel, the first surface can completely contact or cover the third surface in the closed position, and the second surface can completely contact or cover the fourth surface in the closed position. Therefore, the pressure on the tissue between the first and third surfaces and between the second and fourth surfaces can be constant along the respective surface regions in the closed position. Because the respective surfaces are arranged in parallel, the pressure applied to the tissue by the first electrode is greater than the pressure applied from the first surface to the fourth surface.

[0213] In embodiments where the angle defined by the first and second surfaces is smaller than the angle defined by the third and fourth surfaces, the pressure exerted on the tissue by the respective surfaces decreases outward from the first electrode (e.g., in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the first jaw), because in the closed position, the gaps between the first and third surfaces and between the second and fourth surfaces increase with increasing distance from the first electrode. In this configuration, the pressure on the tissue can be increased or concentrated in the region of the first electrode, or in other words, in the region where radio frequency is delivered.

[0214] In an embodiment where the third and fourth surfaces define an angle of 180°, the third and fourth surfaces may define flat or straight surfaces. For example, the second surface may be flat. Here again, the pressure applied to the tissue by the corresponding surfaces decreases outward from the first electrode because the gaps between the first and third surfaces and between the second and fourth surfaces increase with increasing distance from the first electrode in the closed position.

[0215] In an alternative embodiment, the second isolation portion includes a lumen, and the lumen is configured to deform in a closed position, wherein optionally, the electrosurgical instrument includes a blocking element that can be inserted into the lumen to fill the lumen.

[0216] The second isolation portion may include a flexible tube or hose. The lumen may be a channel or passage extending parallel to the first electrode in the closed position. The lumen is arranged close to the second surface such that, in the closed position, the first electrode deforms the second isolation portion, particularly compressing the lumen. Therefore, in the closed position, the volume of the lumen is reduced compared to the open position due to the pressure applied by the first electrode. The lumen may be elastically deformable. The lumen may close or open at the distal end of the second jaw. Compression of the lumen allows for a reduction in the pressure applied to the tissue in the closed position, as the deformation of the lumen results in a decrease in pressure on the tissue.

[0217] The blocking element may include a wire, a rod, and / or any other elongated body configured for insertion into the lumen. The blocking element may be made of (stainless steel) steel or NiTi. The blocking element is inserted by advancing it from the proximal end of the lumen to the distal end. The blocking element may be activated by a control wire or actuating rod, or may be an integral part of the control wire or actuating rod.

[0218] When a blocking element is inserted into the lumen, it essentially fills the lumen, preventing it from deforming under pressure. The blocking element can be used to increase pressure on tissue in the closed position. For example, in microwave sealing, the blocking element is not inserted into the lumen, and the electrosurgical instrument is in the closed position. This presses the first electrode against the second isolating portion and reduces the volume of the lumen. This helps release pressure on the tissue between the second isolating portion and the first electrode. Before radiofrequency ablation, inserting the blocking element into the lumen causes it to expand from a compressed configuration, thereby applying additional pressure to the tissue gripped between the first electrode and the second isolating portion.

[0219] In an alternative embodiment, the second insulating portion forms the third and fourth surfaces. Optionally, the second insulating portion protrudes from the third electrode. Furthermore, optionally, in the closed position, only the second insulating portion contacts the first surface.

[0220] Only the second insulating portion can form the third and fourth surfaces. In this case, the third electrode may also be exposed at the second surface. However, in the closed position, the exposed portion of the third electrode is offset from the first surface, such that when the first and second jaws are moved toward the closed position, the second insulating portion contacts the tissue or the first surface first. It is possible that, in the closed position, only the second insulating portion contacts the tissue or the first surface, for example, when the offset between the first and second surfaces and the exposed portion of the third electrode is large.

[0221] In this embodiment, the second isolation portion may be made of a soft, flexible material (such as silicone or a silicone-based material). Because the second isolation portion protrudes from the third electrode, it can balance and / or reduce the pressure applied to the tissue in the closed position.

[0222] In an alternative embodiment, the second isolation portion includes an elongated groove or open channel for receiving the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode in a closed position. In this way, in the closed position, particularly when the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode protrudes from the first isolation portion, the pressure on the tissue between the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode and the second surface can be reduced.

[0223] In an optional embodiment, the exposed portions of the second electrode, the fourth electrode, and / or the first electrode extend at least partially parallel to each other. Optionally, the first electrode is disposed between the exposed portions of the second electrode and / or the fourth electrode.

[0224] The exposed segments of the second and / or fourth electrodes extend completely or partially parallel to each other on the first surface. For example, the exposed segments are straight and connected by connecting segments—thus forming a ring. Other shapes of the ring are also possible. The first electrode may extend completely or partially parallel to the exposed segments of the second electrode. In the case of a ring, the second electrode is formed as a single segment exposed on the first surface.

[0225] In an alternative embodiment, the first jaw includes a distal end face, wherein the first electrode, the sixth electrode, and / or the first isolation portion are exposed on the distal end face.

[0226] The first and sixth electrodes are operable to provide local incisions within biological vessels / tissue clamped between the first and second jaws. Furthermore, the first and sixth electrodes can also be used for radiofrequency ablation at the distal end face. In a position where the second jaw does not cover the portions of the first and sixth electrodes exposed on the distal end face (e.g., the open position), the exposed portions of the first and sixth electrodes on the distal end face can act as both active and return electrodes for radiofrequency ablation. This allows for fine cutting at the distal end face of the electrosurgical instrument, for example, to create holes in the tissue so that the electrosurgical instrument can be further advanced into and / or through the tissue, for example, as part of a tunneling procedure. Additionally, the first and second electrodes exposed on the distal end face can be used to cut small and / or small segments of tissue clamped or grasped between the distal end face and the second jaw. Thus, the tissue can be "bitten."

[0227] The first surface includes a first electrode and a sixth electrode. The remaining portions of the first and sixth electrodes are exposed on the distal end face. The first electrode and / or the second electrode may be connected to the inner and outer conductors of the coaxial cable, respectively.

[0228] The exposed portions of the first and sixth electrodes on their distal end faces are spaced apart from each other, for example, by an air gap or a first isolation portion (e.g., its exposed section).

[0229] The first surface and the distal end face can form a continuous surface of the first jaw. The first surface and the distal end face can be inclined relative to each other. For example, the angle between the plane defined by the first surface and the plane defined by the distal end face can be between 10° and 90°, optionally 45°, 60°, or 90°. The distal end face, the first surface, and the outer surface of the second electrode can define the outer surface of the first jaw. In this configuration, the distal end face is a side surface, while the first surface and the outer surfaces of the second electrode are surfaces extending along the longitudinal direction of the first jaw. In other words, the distal end face extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first jaw. The distal end face can be the surface of the first jaw located at the most distal position of the first jaw. In other words, when the first jaw is moved toward the tissue along the longitudinal direction of the first jaw, the distal end face contacts the tissue first and / or only.

[0230] The distal end face may be straight / flat. Alternatively, the distal end face may be curved. The portions of the first electrode, the sixth electrode, and the first isolation portion exposed at the distal end face may be flush with each other or define flat surfaces. Alternatively, the portions of the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode exposed at the distal end face may protrude from the portions of the first isolation portion exposed at the distal end face.

[0231] In the closed position of the first and second jaws, the second jaw (e.g., the third electrode) may partially or completely cover the first surface and / or the distal end face. In any case, in the closed position, the second jaw (e.g., the third electrode) covers the portion of the first electrode exposed at the distal end face and / or the portion of the sixth electrode exposed at the distal end face. In other words, if the first and second jaws converge together without tissue between them, the second jaw covers and / or contacts the portions of the first and / or sixth electrodes exposed at the first surface and / or the distal end face. In this way, when the jaws are closed, the second jaw can be used to shield the first and / or sixth electrodes, for example, to avoid unintentionally treating tissue when moving the instrument to the appropriate position at the treatment site.

[0232] The exposed portions of the first and sixth electrodes at their distal ends can define the active electrode and the return electrode, respectively, which can be used to cut tissue at the distal ends. The first and sixth electrodes can be connected to a transmission line configured to transmit both microwave energy and radio frequency energy.

[0233] In an alternative embodiment, the second jaw includes a protruding overhang portion projecting from the second surface. Optionally, in the closed position of the first and second jaws, the overhang portion covers the exposed portions of the first and / or sixth electrodes on their distal end faces.

[0234] The overhang portion may be provided by a third electrode and may include a side surface continuous with the second surface. The second surface and the side surface may be inclined relative to each other. For example, the angle between the plane defined by the second surface and the plane defined by the side surface may be formed between 10° and 90°, optionally 45°, 60°, or 90°. The angle may correspond to (e.g., be exactly the same as) the angle defined by the first surface and the distal end face. In the closed position, the distal end face and the side surface may extend parallel to each other and / or contact each other.

[0235] The overhanging portion of the second jaw may provide a shape similar to the hooked beak of a raptor to both the first and second jaws. In the longitudinal direction (e.g., measured from the pivot axis) of the first and second jaws, in the closed position, the second jaw may have a greater length along the longitudinal direction compared to the first jaw. The length difference between the first and second jaws may correspond to the length of the overhanging portion along the longitudinal direction. In other words, without the overhanging portion, the first and second jaws may have the same length and / or configuration. The overhanging portion protrudes from the second surface toward the first jaw and partially or completely covers the distal end face.

[0236] Tissue can be clamped or gripped between the distal end face and the side surface of the overhang. The surface areas of the side surface and the distal end face are significantly smaller than the surface areas of the first and second surfaces. Therefore, a smaller tissue portion can be gripped between the distal end face and the side surface compared to clamping tissue between the first and second surfaces. This allows for finer cutting of the tissue clamped between the distal end face and the side surface.

[0237] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue is provided, the electrosurgical instrument comprising an instrument shaft; a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and including a first surface; a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and including a second surface; a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; and a transmission line extending in the instrument shaft for transmitting microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy. The first and second jaws are movable between an open position and a closed position, in which tissue is insertable between the first and second surfaces, and in the closed position, the first and second surfaces converge to clamp the tissue between them. The transmission line includes a fourth electrical line electrically connected to the fourth electrode and a fifth electrical line electrically connected to the fifth electrode. The fourth electrical line is electrically coupled to the fifth electrical line such that the fourth and fifth electrodes are configured to be commonly connected to a fifth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy.

[0238] In some examples, the electrosurgical instrument includes a first electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a third electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and / or a sixth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy. Optionally, the transmission line further includes a first electrical line electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave and / or radio frequency energy; a second electrical line electrically connected to the second electrode; a third electrical line electrically connected to the third electrode; and / or a sixth electrical line electrically connected to the sixth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a sixth output port of the electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave and / or radio frequency energy. Further optionally, the second electrical line is electrically coupled to the third electrical line, such that the second and third electrodes are configured to be commonly connected to a third output port of the electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy.

[0239] According to an alternative embodiment of a fifth aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue is provided, the electrosurgical instrument comprising an instrument shaft; a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and including a first surface; a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and including a second surface; a first electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; a second electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; a third electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; and / or a sixth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy; and / or a transmission line extending in the instrument shaft for transmitting microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy. The first and second jaws are movable between an open position and a closed position, in which tissue can be inserted between the first and second surfaces, and in the closed position, the first and second surfaces converge to clamp the tissue between them. The transmission line includes a first power divider configured to be connected to a fifth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the fifth output port; and / or a second power divider configured to be connected to a third output port of the electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the third output port; and / or a first electrical line electrically connected to a first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy; and / or a second electrical line electrically connected to a second electrode and a second power divider; and / or a third electrical line electrically connected to a third electrode and a second power divider; and / or a fourth electrical line electrically connected to a fourth electrode and a first power divider; and / or a fifth electrical line electrically connected to a fifth electrode and a first power divider; and / or a sixth electrical line electrically connected to a sixth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a sixth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy.

[0240] The electrosurgical devices of the fifth aspect include the same features, alternative implementations, and optional characteristics as the electrosurgical devices described above, except for the following differences.

[0241] The electrosurgical device of the third aspect is characterized in that each electrode is connected to a corresponding output port of the electrosurgical control unit via a separate electrical circuit. This concept no longer applies to all electrodes of the electrosurgical device of the fifth aspect. Separate electrical circuits may be provided only for the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode, allowing the first electrode and / or the sixth electrode to be controlled independently using the electrosurgical control unit. The second and third electrodes may only be connected to the same output port of the electrosurgical control unit and / or the generator unit, because the second and third electrodes are connected to a second power divider, which in turn is connected to the output port of the electrosurgical control unit.

[0242] Similarly, the fourth and fifth electrodes can only be connected to the same output port of the electrosurgical control unit and / or the generator unit, because the fourth and fifth electrodes are connected to the first power divider, which in turn is connected to the output port of the electrosurgical control unit.

[0243] For example, the fourth and fifth electrodes may be connected to the fourth or fifth output port as described above. The electrosurgical control unit may include only the fourth or fifth output port; for example, the electrosurgical control unit may include fewer output ports than in the embodiment described above. However, the same number of output ports as described above may be provided. In this case, some output ports are not connected to the electrosurgical instruments.

[0244] Similarly, the second and third electrodes can be connected to the second or third output port as described above. The electrosurgical control unit may include only the second or third output port; for example, the electrosurgical control unit may include fewer output ports than in the embodiment described above. However, the same number of output ports as described above may be provided. In this case, some output ports are not connected to the electrosurgical instruments.

[0245] The common concept of the third and fifth aspects of electrosurgical instruments is to connect an electrode group to the corresponding output port of the electrosurgical control unit and / or generator unit. The electrode group includes one or more electrodes with the fifth aspect, and only one electrode with the third aspect.

[0246] For the electrosurgical device of the fifth embodiment, the application of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy using the second to fifth output ports is fixed because the fourth and fifth electrodes are subjected to the same potential of the generator (e.g., the fourth and fifth electrodes form an electrode group), and the second and third electrodes are subjected to the same potential of the generator (e.g., the second and third electrodes form an electrode group) because the respective electrodes are connected to the respective power dividers.

[0247] The first and / or second power divider may include a Y-coupler or any type of power divider configured to distribute microwave and / or radio frequency energy. The first and / or second power divider may be disposed outside the instrument shaft. For example, the first and / or second power divider may be disposed in the handpiece, shaft, connector, and / or first and second jaws. However, other components for electrically connecting the second electrode to the third electrode and / or the fourth electrode to the fifth electrode are possible, for example, by simply electrically connecting the corresponding electrical lines.

[0248] The fourth and second electrical lines can be the inner and outer conductors of a coaxial cable, respectively. This coaxial cable can extend between the fourth / second electrode and the first and second power dividers. Similarly, the fifth and third electrical lines can be the inner and outer conductors of a coaxial cable, respectively. This coaxial cable can extend between the fifth / third electrode and the first and second power dividers. A single cable can extend between the first and second power dividers and their respective output ports. This means that the first power divider distributes the power supplied by the inner conductor of the coaxial cable, and the second power divider distributes the power supplied by the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. In other words, the first and second power dividers can form a single coaxial power divider.

[0249] Alternatively, each power divider is connected to a common electrical line (e.g., a conductor, optionally extending through a shaft), which provides electrical connection to the corresponding output port of the electrosurgical control unit and / or generator unit. The first and / or second power dividers may also provide the functionality of a power combiner, for example, the power dividers operate bidirectionally.

[0250] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, an electrosurgical system for sealing and / or cutting tissue is provided. The electrosurgical system includes a generator unit for generating radiofrequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy, an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, and a generator controller for controlling the operation of a first generator and a second generator. The generator unit includes a first generator and a second generator, the first generator including a first pole and a second pole, and the second generator including a first pole and a second pole. The electrosurgical instrument includes an instrument shaft; a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and including a first surface; a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and including a second surface; a second electrode for emitting microwave and / or radiofrequency energy; a third electrode for emitting microwave and / or radiofrequency energy; a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radiofrequency energy; a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radiofrequency energy; and a transmission line extending in the instrument shaft for transmitting microwave and / or radiofrequency electromagnetic energy. The first and second jaws are movable between an open position and a closed position, in which tissue can be inserted between the first and second surfaces, and in the closed position, the first and second surfaces converge to clamp the tissue between them. The transmission circuitry includes: a fifth electrical line electrically connected to a fifth electrode and electrically coupled to a first pole of a first generator; a third electrical line electrically connected to a third electrode and electrically coupled to a second pole of the first generator; a fourth electrical line electrically connected to a fourth electrode and electrically coupled to a first pole of a second generator; and a second electrical line electrically connected to a second electrode and electrically coupled to a second pole of the second generator. The generator controller is configured to: activate a first generator to transmit radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between a fifth electrode and a third electrode; deactivate the first generator to stop transmitting radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fifth electrode and the third electrode; activate a second generator to transmit radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between a fourth electrode and a second electrode; and deactivate the second generator to stop transmitting radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fourth electrode and the second electrode.

[0251] For example, the generator controller is configured to: turn on a first generator to transmit radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between a fifth electrode and a third electrode; turn off the first generator to terminate the transmission of radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fifth electrode and the third electrode; turn on a second generator to transmit radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between a fourth electrode and a second electrode; and turn off the first generator to terminate the transmission of radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fourth electrode and the second electrode.

[0252] The optional features, implementations, and / or characteristics described above (related to the electrosurgical instrument and / or generator unit) also apply to the electrosurgical system, for example, to the generator unit and / or electrosurgical instrument. However, for the electrosurgical system, the second, third, fourth, and fifth electrodes may be permanently or directly electrically connected to the generator unit. For example, the electrosurgical control unit, including a switching network, may not be located between the second, third, fourth, and fifth electrodes (on one hand) and the generator unit (on the other hand). In other words, the electrosurgical control unit may not be used to control the emission of radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy from the second, third, fourth, and fifth electrodes. Instead, control of the emission of radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy from the second, third, fourth, and fifth electrodes is performed by turning the first and second generators on or off (using a generator controller).

[0253] The inventors recognized that a switch within a switching network that can be used with microwave energy may be more expensive than providing two generators (e.g., a first generator and a second generator). Furthermore, by providing two generators, a pair of fourth and second electrodes, as well as a pair of fifth and third electrodes, can be subjected to different electromagnetic energies, such as different microwave frequencies.

[0254] The generator unit may include three generators: a first generator for generating microwave electromagnetic energy, a second generator for generating microwave electromagnetic energy, and a third generator for generating radio frequency electromagnetic energy.

[0255] The transmission line may include two coaxial cables. For example, a fifth electrical line may be the inner conductor of a first coaxial cable, and a third electrical line may be the outer conductor of the first coaxial cable. A fourth electrical line may be the inner conductor of a second coaxial cable, and the second electrical line may be the outer conductor of the second coaxial cable.

[0256] In an alternative implementation, the electrosurgical system further includes an electrosurgical control unit as described above.

[0257] The electrosurgical control unit may not be used to connect a first generator (e.g., for generating microwave electromagnetic energy) and / or a second generator (e.g., for generating microwave electromagnetic energy) to the various electrodes of the electrosurgical instrument. Instead, the electrosurgical control unit may be used to connect a third generator (e.g., for generating radio frequency electromagnetic energy), a microwave sensor, and / or a radio frequency sensor to the various electrodes of the electrosurgical instrument. If so, the corresponding electrical connections of the first to fourth output ports, the first to fourth energy input ports, and / or the first to fourth sensing ports can be appropriately configured.

[0258] Therefore, in this implementation, a switching network is used to control the radio frequency energy emission and the connection status of various sensors and electrodes. The connections of the second to fifth electrodes to the two generators used to generate microwave electromagnetic energy are permanent and not controlled by the switching network. Instead, the generator controller performs appropriate on / off switching as described above.

[0259] The generator controller may be housed within the generator unit's housing. The generator controller can communicate data with both the first and second generators. The generator controller may include a processor and memory. The memory may store programs, algorithms, and / or application programs executable by the processor.

[0260] The first, second, and / or third generators may each include a power amplifier configured to amplify electrical signals at frequencies in the microwave and / or radio frequency ranges. Electrosurgical energy for sealing and / or cutting tissue may be provided by the power amplifiers. Therefore, the aforementioned activation and / or deactivation of the first and second generators can be achieved by controlling the respective power amplifiers (e.g., activating or deactivating the respective power amplifiers).

[0261] Furthermore, the electrosurgical system of the sixth aspect is described as including the features of the electrosurgical instrument of the third aspect. However, the invention is not limited thereto. It is also possible that the electrosurgical system of the sixth aspect includes the electrosurgical instrument of the fifth aspect, instead of the electrosurgical instrument of the third aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0262] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0263] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the implementation plan for the electrosurgical equipment.

[0264] Figure 2a It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the implementation scheme (in the open position) of the electrosurgical instruments of the electrosurgical device shown.

[0265] Figure 2b It shows Figure 2a A perspective cross-sectional view of the electrosurgical instrument shown (in the open position).

[0266] Figure 2c It shows Figure 2a A perspective cross-sectional view of the first jaw of the electrosurgical instrument shown, with the first isolation portion removed.

[0267] Figure 3a It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2cA schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument, in which all electrical connections of the switch network have been disconnected.

[0268] Figure 3b It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2c A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument in a first exemplary connected state of a switching network.

[0269] Figure 4a It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2c A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument in a second exemplary connection state of a switching network.

[0270] Figure 4b It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2c A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument in a third exemplary connection state of a switching network.

[0271] Figure 4c It shows Figures 2a to 2c Electrosurgical instruments are in Figure 4a The second exemplary connection state is shown in the perspective front and rear views, where the active electrode is in green and the counter electrode is in red.

[0272] Figure 4d It shows Figures 2a to 2c Electrosurgical instruments are in Figure 4b The third exemplary connection state is shown in the perspective front and rear views, where the active electrode is in green and the counter electrode is in red.

[0273] Figure 5a It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2c A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument in the fourth exemplary connection state of a switching network.

[0274] Figure 5b It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2c A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument in the fifth exemplary connection state of a switching network.

[0275] Figure 6 It shows the connection to Figure 1 The switch network of the control unit shown Figures 2a to 2c A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical instrument in the sixth exemplary connection state of a switching network.

[0276] Figure 7a It shows Figure 1A perspective view of an alternative embodiment (in the open position) of the electrosurgical instrument of the electrosurgical device shown.

[0277] Figure 7b It shows Figure 7a A perspective view of the electrosurgical instruments in the closed position.

[0278] Figure 7c It shows Figure 7b A cross-sectional perspective view of the electrosurgical instrument shown (in the closed position).

[0279] Figure 7d It shows Figure 7a A cross-sectional perspective view of the electrosurgical instrument (in the open position) is shown, with the first and second isolation portions removed.

[0280] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical system in an exemplary connected state of a switching network is shown.

[0281] Figures 9a to 9f Various connection states of a switch network connected to an electrosurgical instrument are shown in an alternative embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0282] Other options and preferences This invention relates to an electrosurgical instrument and device capable of delivering microwave energy to seal tissue (e.g., blood vessels) and cut tissue. The electrosurgical instrument and device can be used in open surgical procedures, but is particularly useful in procedures where treatment sites are difficult to access. For example, the electrosurgical instrument of this invention can be adapted to be fitted within the instrument channel of a surgical endoscopic device (i.e., a laparoscope, endoscope, etc.). Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an electrosurgical device 10 in which the electrosurgical instruments of the present invention can be used is shown.

[0283] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electrosurgical device 10 as an embodiment of the present invention. The electrosurgical device 10 is arranged to treat biological tissue using radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave electromagnetic (EM) energy delivered from an electrosurgical instrument 12. The electromagnetic energy emitted by the electrosurgical instrument 12 into the treatment site can be used to coagulate, cut, and / or ablate the tissue in the treatment site.

[0284] The electrosurgical device 10 further includes an electrosurgical generator assembly 11, which may include an electrosurgical generator unit 14 and an electrosurgical control unit 13. The electrosurgical generator unit 14 and the electrosurgical control unit 13 may be arranged in a common housing of the electrosurgical generator assembly 11 (e.g., Figure 1 (As indicated by the dashed line in the diagram). In this case, the electrical connection between the electrosurgical generator unit 14 and the electrosurgical control unit 13 can be permanent.

[0285] However, the electrosurgical generator 14 and the electrosurgical control unit 13 can be separate components that can be electrically connected together via one or more electrical lines. In this case, the electrical connection between the electrosurgical generator unit 14 and the electrosurgical control unit 13 can be removable. For example, the electrical connection between the electrosurgical generator unit 14 and the electrosurgical control unit 13 can be replaced or replaced using appropriate cables. The electrosurgical control unit 13 can be considered as a set-top box that can be used with various different types of electrosurgical generator units 14.

[0286] The electrosurgical generator unit 14 can controllably supply radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy to the electrosurgical instrument 12. The generator unit 14 may include a first generator 16 and a second generator 17. Suitable generators for this purpose are described in WO 2012 / 076844, which is incorporated herein by reference. The generator unit 14 may be arranged to monitor reflected signals received from the electrosurgical instrument 12 to determine an appropriate power level for delivery. For example, the generator unit 14 may be arranged to calculate the impedance experienced at the electrosurgical instrument 12 to determine an optimal delivery power level.

[0287] The electrosurgical device 10 further includes a surgical viewing device 18, such as a bronchoscope, endoscope, gastroscope, laparoscope, etc. The viewing device 18 may include a handheld component 20 and a flexible shaft 22. The handheld component 20 may include a member for guiding the flexible shaft 22 through a body cavity. For example, the handheld component 20 may include a member for moving the distal end of the flexible shaft 22 to change the orientation of the distal end of the flexible shaft 22. This facilitates maneuvering the flexible shaft 22 through the body cavity. The flexible shaft 22 may include a working channel through which an elongated structure is movable to be positioned at a treatment site within the body cavity.

[0288] The first generator 16 and the second generator 17 are each configured to generate electromagnetic energy at a fixed frequency. However, the generator unit 14 is not limited to this; the first generator 16 and / or the second generator 17 may be configured to generate AC electromagnetic energy in a continuous range between a minimum and a maximum frequency. An interface (not shown in the figures) may be used to select the frequency of the electromagnetic energy to be generated by the first generator 16 and / or the second generator 17.

[0289] The electrosurgical generator unit 14 may include a first generator port 40a and a second generator port 40b. The first generator port 40a is electrically connected to a first generator 16, and the second generator port 40b is electrically connected to a second generator 17. The first generator port 40a and the second generator port 40b may be electrical ports exposed on the housing of the electrosurgical generator unit 14. The first generator port 40a may be a socket or plug for a coaxial cable; the second generator port 40b may be a socket or plug for two wires that can be coupled in a cable.

[0290] exist Figure 1 In the first generator port 40a, the first and second electrical lines are connected, optionally forming the inner and outer conductors of the coaxial cable, respectively. The third and fourth electrical lines are connected to the second generator port 40b, optionally forming the two conductors of the cable.

[0291] In different embodiments not shown in the figures, the electrosurgical generator unit 14 may include a combiner configured to temporarily switch between the output of the first generator 16 and the output of the second generator 17. The combiner may also be configured to combine the outputs of the first generator 16 and the second generator 17. In this case, the combiner acts as a multiplexer or duplexer. Furthermore, the electrosurgical generator unit 14 may include a single generator port.

[0292] Therefore, the generator unit 14 is capable of generating and controlling power delivered to the electrosurgical instrument 12, for example, via an electrosurgical control unit 13 and a transmission line 28 extending from the electrosurgical control unit 13 through the surgical endoscope 18 and the instrument channel to the distal end of the instrument channel. The electrosurgical generator unit 14 may have a user interface for selecting and / or controlling the power delivered to the electrosurgical instrument 12, for example, controlling a first generator 16 and / or a second generator 17. The electrosurgical generator unit 14 may have a display for showing the selected energy delivery mode. In some examples, the generator unit 14 may allow selection of the energy delivery mode based on the size of the blood vessel to be sealed.

[0293] The electrosurgical control unit 13 may include a switch network 44, a microwave sensor 46, a radio frequency sensor 48, a user interface 47, a controller 49, a first energy input port 42a, a second energy input port 42b, a third energy input port 42c, a fourth energy input port 42d, an interface 42e, a first output port 43a, a second output port 43b, a third output port 43c, a fourth output port 43d, a fifth output port 43e, and / or a sixth output port 43f.

[0294] The first to fourth energy input ports 42a to 42d may be exposed on the housing of the electrosurgical control unit 13. The first energy input port 42a and the second energy input port 42b may be plugs or sockets for coaxial cables. The first energy input ports 42a and 42b may be electrically connected to the first generator 16 via the first generator port 40a. The third energy input port 42c and the fourth energy input port 42d may be plugs or sockets for cables with two wires. The third energy input port 42c and the fourth energy input port 42d may be electrically connected to the second generator 17 via the second generator port 40b. Each of the first to fourth energy input ports 42a to 42d is electrically connected to the switch network 44 via a corresponding electrical line.

[0295] The microwave sensor 46 includes a first sensing port 46a and a second sensing port 46b, each of which can be considered a pole of the microwave sensor 46. The microwave sensor 46 can be configured to measure the inductance, capacitance, voltage, and / or current between the first sensing port 46a and the second sensing port 46b to determine the microwave electromagnetic energy emitted by the electrosurgical instrument 12. Each of the first sensing port 46a and the second sensing port 46b is electrically connected to the switching network 44 via corresponding electrical lines.

[0296] The radio frequency sensor 46 includes a third sensing port 48a and a fourth sensing port 48b, each of which can be considered a pole of the radio frequency sensor 48. The microwave sensor 46 can be configured to measure the inductance, capacitance, voltage, and / or current between the third sensing port 48a and the fourth sensing port 48b to determine the radio frequency electromagnetic energy emitted by the electrosurgical instrument 12. Each of the third sensing port 48a and the fourth sensing port 48b is electrically connected to the switching network 44 via corresponding electrical lines.

[0297] The controller 49 can communicate data with the microwave sensor 46, the radio frequency sensor 48, and / or the user interface 47. The user interface 47 may include one or more switches, dials, buttons, and / or touchscreens for changing settings of the switching network 44. For example, the user interface 47 can communicate data with the controller 49 and is configured to generate control signals based on user input. The control signals are received by the controller 49 and processed to change the connection state of the switching network 44.

[0298] The controller 49 may include a processor and memory. Algorithms, programs, and / or other functionalities may be stored in the memory and executed by the processor. The switch network 44 may include one or more electrical switches for connecting one of the first to fourth energy input ports 42a to 42d to one or more of the first to sixth output ports 43a to 43f. Therefore, the switch network 44 may allow for different connection states to change the connection between the first generator 16 and the second generator 17 and one or more of the first to sixth output ports 43a to 43f.

[0299] Furthermore, the switch network 44 can be configured to connect one of the first to fourth sensing ports 46a, 46b, 48a, 48b to one or more of the first to fixed output ports 43a to 43f. This will be combined with... Figures 3a to 6 Discuss exemplary connection states.

[0300] Interface 42e can be configured as a plug or socket for establishing data communication between the electrosurgical control unit 13 and an external device. For example, interface 42e can be used to receive external information from an external device. For example, the external information could be data about the open status of the electrosurgical instrument 12.

[0301] like Figures 2a to 2c As exemplarily shown, the electrosurgical device 12 may include a transmission line 28 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 The instrument shaft 30, connector 32, first jaw 34 and / or second jaw 36. The transmission line 28 may include one or more (e.g., two) coaxial cables and one or more (e.g., two) wires, which connect the electrosurgical generator unit 14 to the first jaw 34 and / or the second jaw 34 via the electrosurgical control unit 13 for transmitting radio frequency and / or microwave energy.

[0302] Figures 2a to 2c A schematic perspective view and / or cross-sectional view of the distal end of an embodiment of the electrosurgical instrument 12 are shown. A second jaw 36 (via connector 32) is rotatably or pivotally connected to or coupled to an instrument shaft 30, the instrument shaft being sized to fit within the instrument channel of the surgical viewing device 18. A first jaw 24 is rotatably or pivotally connected to or coupled to the instrument shaft 30 via connector 32. The instrument shaft 30 includes a tubular sheath covering transmission lines for delivering microwave and / or radio frequency energy to the jaws 34, 36, along with various control lines or (actuating) levers arranged to control and / or physically manipulate the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36, as discussed below.

[0303] The first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 are operatively coupled to a connector 32 mounted on the distal end of the instrument shaft 30. Thus, both jaws 34 and 36 are pivotable and rotatable. The connector 32 can be arranged to ensure that the jaws remain laterally aligned when they move together.

[0304] In an alternative embodiment, one of the jaws 34 and 36 may be arranged not to pivot relative to the joint 32, for example, to be fixedly attached to the shaft 30.

[0305] In the illustrated embodiment, connector 32 includes a pivot shaft defining a pivot axis (in... Figures 2a to 2c (Not visible in the image). The first jaw and the second jaw 36 can pivot about a pivot axis or pivot shaft. For example, the pivot shaft is fixed to the connector 32, and the first jaw 32 and the second jaw 36 can rotate about the pivot shaft.

[0306] Connector 32 may have a U-shaped clamp structure. The first jaw 34 and / or the second jaw 36 may include elongated slots. The control line or actuating rod may include a cam that inserts into the slot of the first jaw 34 and / or the second jaw 36. The engagement of the cam with the slot provides an actuation mechanism that converts the back-and-forth movement of the control line (and thus the cam) into rotational movement of the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 about a pivot axis.

[0307] In use, the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 are designed to clamp biological tissue (particularly blood vessels) therebetween. The first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 are arranged to apply pressure to the biological tissue between the opposing surfaces of the jaws 34, 36 and to deliver energy (preferably microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy) from the transmission line to the tissue.

[0308] The electrosurgical instrument 12 may further include a switch (not shown) for detecting whether the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 are open beyond a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10°). If the opening degree of the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 is higher than the predetermined threshold, the switch may generate a signal that can be forwarded to the interface 42e and processed by the controller 49.

[0309] The first jaw 34 includes a first surface 50, which is opposite to the second surface 52 of the second jaw 36. The first surface 50 and / or the second surface 52 may form the outer surfaces of the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36, respectively, which can converge to contact each other when the jaws 34 and 36 are in the closed position. For example, the first surface 50 and the second surface 52 may be considered as pressure pads or pressure areas through which pressure can be applied to the tissue gripped between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36.

[0310] exist Figures 2a to 2c In one embodiment, the first jaw 34 and the second jaw include a first electrode 54, a second electrode 56, a first insulating portion 58, a third electrode 60, a fourth electrode 62, a fifth electrode 64, a sixth electrode 66, and / or a second insulating portion 68. The first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, the third electrode 60, the fourth electrode 62, the fifth electrode 64, and / or the sixth electrode 66 are made of a conductive material (such as a metal or metal alloy). The second electrode 56 may form the outer surface of the first jaw 34 and / or provide a connection to the instrument shaft 30. Therefore, the second electrode 56 may function to provide stability to the first jaw 34.

[0311] The second electrode 56 may have a semi-shell form along a portion of the first surface 50. The second electrode 56 may surround the first electrode 54, the first insulating portion 58, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66. This means that the first electrode 54, the first insulating portion 58, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 may be embedded within the semi-shell of the second electrode 56. The shape of the second electrode 56 may also be considered to provide a groove or channel in which the first electrode 54, the first insulating portion 58, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 may be arranged.

[0312] The first isolation portion 58 can electrically isolate the first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, the fourth electrode 62 and / or the sixth electrode 66 from each other. The first isolation portion 58 can be made of a non-conductive material, such as ceramic (e.g., including zirconium oxide), PEEK, silicone and / or other plastic materials.

[0313] Preferably, the first insulating portion 58 is made of an elastically deformable material such as silicone. Furthermore, the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 can be floating. This means that the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 are only attached to and supported by the first insulating portion 58. Due to the elastic nature of the first insulating portion 58, when pressure is applied, for example, when gripping and squeezing tissue between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36, the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 can move relative to each other and / or relative to the second electrode 56. The first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, and the sixth electrode 66 can be flexibly connected to the transmission line 28 to allow movement relative to the second electrode 58 and therefore relative to the transmission line.

[0314] Along a section of the first jaw 34, the second electrode 56 may have a U-shaped or V-shaped form in cross-sectional view. Alternatively, the second electrode 56 may have a plate shape (along this section of the first jaw 34). At the distal and / or proximal ends of the first jaw 34, the second electrode 56 may have different configurations such that it has closed ends (not shown in the figure) instead of open ends. This means that the second electrode 56 may shield the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 in all directions away from the first surface 50.

[0315] The first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 are exposed at the first surface 50 to contact the tissue clamped between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36. However, the second electrode 56 may be offset and not flush with the first surface 50. The second electrode 56 may contact the tissue when the first isolation portion 58 is compressed.

[0316] Two segments of the second electrode 56 and two segments of the fourth electrode 62 are exposed on the first surface 50, spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the two exposed segments are straight and extend in the direction of extension of the first jaw 34.

[0317] The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are configured to transmit radio frequency energy for tissue cutting. The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are electrically isolated. The first electrode 54 may be the active electrode for delivering radio frequency electromagnetic energy, while the sixth electrode 66 is the counter electrode for providing bipolar radio frequency cutting. The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are connected to a transmission line 28, for example, by corresponding wires connected to the transmission line 28.

[0318] The second electrode 56 and the fourth electrode 62 are configured to emit microwave energy for tissue sealing. The second electrode 56 is electrically isolated from the fourth electrode 62. The fourth electrode 62 can be an active electrode for delivering microwave electromagnetic energy, while the second electrode 56 is a return electrode. The fourth electrode 62 is connected to transmission line 28, optionally connected to the inner conductor of a coaxial cable. The second electrode 56 is connected to transmission line 28, optionally connected to the outer conductor of a coaxial cable.

[0319] The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are exposed on and / or protrude from the first isolation portion 58. The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are arranged to initially contact the tissue clamped between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36. In other words, the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 protrude from the first isolation portion 58 in a direction toward the second jaw 36. The first electrode 54 and / or the sixth electrode 66 may be ridges or strips made of a conductive material (such as metal or metal alloy).

[0320] The fourth electrode 62 is also exposed on the first insulating portion 58, but does not protrude from it. Instead, the fourth electrode 62 may be flush with the first insulating portion 58 on the first surface 50. Along a section of the first jaw 34, the fourth electrode 62 may have a U-shaped or V-shaped profile in cross-sectional view. Furthermore, the fourth electrode 62 may have a plate shape (along this section of the first jaw 34). The end faces of the plate-shaped fourth electrode 62 may constitute the exposed section of the fourth electrode 62. Distally from the first jaw 34, the fourth electrode 62 may not be exposed, but rather completely embedded or buried within the first insulating portion 58.

[0321] The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are arranged midway between the corresponding two segments exposed on the first surface 50 of the second electrode 56 and the fourth electrode 62. The exposed segments of the second electrode 56, the fourth electrode 62, and the first insulating portion 58 may be symmetrical with respect to the exposed segments of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66. The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 may divide the first surface 50 into a first surface and a second surface. The first surface and the second surface may be symmetrical with respect to the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66. Each of the first surface and the second surface may include the exposed segment of the second electrode 56, the exposed segment of the fourth electrode 62, and / or the exposed segment of the first insulating portion 58.

[0322] The first surface and the second surface define an angle of 180° relative to each other. Since the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 are arranged between the first surface and the second surface, the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 protrude from both the first surface and the second surface.

[0323] The first jaw 34 further includes a distal end face 70 directly adjacent to the first surface 50. The distal end face 70 is inclined at an angle of 90° relative to the first surface 50. The distal end face 70 is a side surface of the first jaw 34, which first contacts the tissue as the first jaw 34 is advanced toward the tissue in the longitudinal direction of the first jaw 34. Figures 2a to 2c In one embodiment, the distal end face 70 is curved. The first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, the sixth electrode 66, and / or the first isolation portion 58 are exposed on the distal end face 70. The exposed portions of the first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, and / or the sixth electrode 66 on the distal end face 70 are spaced apart from each other. Furthermore, the exposed portions of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 on the distal end face 70 are arranged between the exposed portions of the second electrode 56 on the distal end face 70. The exposed portions of the first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, and / or the sixth electrode 66 on the distal end face 70 are continuous with the corresponding portions of the first electrode 54, the second electrode 56, and the sixth electrode 66 exposed on the first surface 50. Thus, the exposed portions of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 on the distal end face 70 provide an active electrode and a counter electrode for radio frequency cutting.

[0324] The surface area of ​​the distal end face 70 is significantly smaller than that of the first surface 50. Similarly, the portions of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 exposed on the distal end face 70 are smaller than the corresponding portions exposed on the first surface 50. This allows for fine cutting using the exposed portions of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 on the distal end face 70. For example, the exposed portions of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 on the distal end face 70 can be used to make holes in the tissue.

[0325] The second jaw 36 includes a third electrode 60, a fifth electrode 64, and / or a second isolation portion 68. The first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 protrude from the first isolation portion 58 toward the second jaw 36 and contact the second isolation portion 68 in the closed position. The second isolation portion 68 may include an elongated groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the second jaw 36 for receiving the protrusions of the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66.

[0326] The third electrode 60 and / or the fifth electrode 64 are made of a conductive material such as metal. The third electrode 60 may form the outer surface of the second jaw 36 and / or provide a connection to the pivot shaft. Furthermore, a slot of the second jaw 36 may be arranged on the third electrode 66. Therefore, the third electrode 66 may function to provide stability to the second jaw 36.

[0327] The second electrode 60 may have a semi-shell form in a portion of the second surface 52. Figures 2a to 2c In one embodiment, the third electrode 60 may surround the fifth electrode 64 and the second insulating portion 68. This means that the fifth electrode 64 and the second insulating portion 68 may be embedded in a half-shell of the third electrode 60. The shape of the third electrode 60 may also be considered to provide a groove or channel in which the fifth electrode 64 and the second insulating portion 68 are arranged.

[0328] The third electrode 60 may be mirror-symmetrical to the second electrode 56. Along the section of the second jaw 36, the third electrode 60 may have a U-shaped form in cross-sectional view (see [reference]). Figure 2b Furthermore, along this section of the second jaw 36, the third electrode 60 may have a plate shape (see...). Figures 2a to 2c At the distal end of the second jaw 36, the third electrode 60 has the same configuration, such that the third electrode 60 has an open end rather than a closed end. This means that the third electrode 60 can shield the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 in all directions away from the second surface 52. The second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can be electrically connected to each other directly or through the same conductor connected to the transmission line.

[0329] Along a section of the second jaw 36, the fifth electrode 64 may have a U-shaped or V-shaped profile in cross-sectional view. Alternatively, the fifth electrode 64 may have a plate shape (along this section of the second jaw 36). The fifth electrode 64 is exposed on the second surface 52. The end faces of the plate-shaped fifth electrode 64 may constitute the exposed section of the fifth electrode 64. At the distal end of the second jaw 36 (e.g., at the distal end face 70 of the second jaw), the fifth electrode 64 may not be exposed, but rather completely embedded or buried within the second insulating portion 68.

[0330] The first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, the fifth electrode 64, and the sixth electrode 66 each include a through hole 72, which is filled by the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68, respectively. Therefore, the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, the fifth electrode 64, and the sixth electrode 66 are interlocked with the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68, respectively. In this way, the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, the fifth electrode 64, and the sixth electrode 66 are attached to the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68, respectively. When the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68 are made of a non-adhesive or non-stick material (such as silicone), the positive fit between the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, the fifth electrode 64, and the sixth electrode 66 and the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68 is beneficial.

[0331] Similarly, the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 include through holes 72, in which portions of the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68 are respectively disposed. Therefore, the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68 are interlocked with the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60, respectively. In other words, the first isolation portion 58 and the second isolation portion 68 are attached to the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 by form-fitting. Furthermore, the first electrode 54, the fourth electrode 62, and / or the sixth electrode 66 are attached to the second electrode 56 via and (only) the first isolation portion 58. Additionally, the fifth electrode 64 is attached to the third electrode 60 via and (only) the second isolation portion 68.

[0332] Figure 3a A simplified diagram is shown illustrating how the switching network 44 connects various inputs (e.g., first to fourth energy input ports 42a to 42d and / or first to fourth sensing ports 46a, 46b, 48a, 48b) to first to sixth output ports 43a to 43f. Figure 3a An additional port (indicated as "Other Sensors") is shown for sensing, which can be used to input additional sensors for measuring the status or emission of the electrosurgical instrument 12. Furthermore, the switch network 44 includes a port for a common return line.

[0333] exist Figure 3aIn this configuration, switch network 44 is completely disconnected, meaning that no input port is connected to an output port. This connection state can be used without the electrosurgical instrument 12 being used, and can be the default setting when switch network 44 is not powered.

[0334] Figure 3b It shows the relationship with Figure 3a An exemplary embodiment of another connection state of the same switch network 44 shown. Figure 3a In the shown connection configuration, the active electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to the fifth electrode 64 and the fourth electrode 62. The ground electrode or opposite electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the first energy input port 42a to both the fourth output port 43d and the fifth output port 43e, and connects the second energy input port 42a to both the second output port 43b and the third output port 43c. Furthermore, in... Figure 3b In the shown connection configuration, the active electrode of the second generator 17 is connected to the first electrode 54. The ground or return electrode of the second generator 17 is connected to the sixth electrode 66. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the third energy input port 42c to the first output port 43a and the fourth energy input port 42d to the sixth output port 43f. Furthermore, one electrode of the RF sensor 48 is connected to the fifth electrode 64, and the other electrode of the RF sensor 48 is connected to both the second and third electrodes 56. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the third sensing port 48a to the third output port 43c and the fourth sensing port 48b to the second output port 43b.

[0335] In this connected state of the switching network 44, radiofrequency cutting can be performed between the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66. Microwave sealing can be achieved between the fifth electrode 64 and the third electrode 60 on the second jaw 36, and between the fourth electrode 62 and the second electrode 56 on the first jaw 34. Therefore, tissue can be sealed and clamped between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 from both sides. Furthermore, the progress of radiofrequency cutting can be monitored using the second electrode 56, the third electrode 60, and the fifth electrode 64, which are not involved in the radiofrequency cutting.

[0336] Figure 4a and Figure 4b The diagram illustrates two additional exemplary connection states, which are shown using the same logic as the diagram. Figure 3a and Figure 3b The same switch network 44 is shown. When the opening degree of the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., more than 10°), the controller 49 can automatically set... Figure 4a The connection status is shown.

[0337] exist Figure 4a In the connection state, as a common working electrode ( Figure 4c The first electrode 54 (highlighted in green) is between the sixth electrode 66 and serves as a common return electrode. Figure 4c Radio frequency cutting is achieved between the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 (highlighted in red in the image). The switching network 44, controlled by the controller 49, connects the active electrode of the second generator 17 to both the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66. The ground or return electrode of the second generator 17 is connected to both the second electrode 58 and the third electrode 60. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the third energy input port 42c to both the first output port 43a and the sixth output port 43f, and the fourth energy input port 42d to both the second output port 43b and the third output port 43c.

[0338] exist Figure 4b In the connected state, as the working electrode ( Figure 4d The first electrode 54 (highlighted in green) and the return electrode ( Figure 4d Radio frequency cutting is achieved between the sixth electrode 66 (highlighted in red in the image). The switching network 44, controlled by the controller 49, connects the active electrode of the second generator 17 to the first electrode 54. The ground or return electrode of the second generator 17 is connected to the sixth electrode 66. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the third energy input port 42c to the first output port 43a and the fourth energy input port 42d to the sixth output port 43f.

[0339] The inventor has discovered that, Figure 4a and Figure 4c The improved connection state of the radiofrequency electrodes enhances radiofrequency ablation of jaws 34 and 36 in the "open" configuration. In the "closed" configuration (e.g., when the opening degree is less than 10°) and when tissue is clamped between jaws 34 and 36, Figure 4b and Figure 4d The connection status of the radio frequency electrodes improves radio frequency cutting.

[0340] like Figure 4c and Figure 4d As shown, the transmission line 28 may include a first coaxial cable 28a, a second coaxial cable 28b, and a pair of wires 28c. The inner conductor of the first coaxial cable 28a may be connected to a fourth electrode 62, and the outer conductor of the first coaxial cable 28a may be connected to a second electrode 56. The inner conductor of the second coaxial cable 28b may be connected to a fifth electrode 64, and the outer conductor of the second coaxial cable 28b may be connected to a third electrode 60. The first wire of the pair of wires 28c may be connected to the first electrode 54, and the second wire of the pair of wires 28c may be connected to a sixth electrode 66.

[0341] The inner conductor of the first coaxial cable 28a may be configured to connect to the first output port 43a, and the outer conductor of the first coaxial cable 28a may be configured to connect to the second output port 43b. The inner conductor of the second coaxial cable 28b may be configured to connect to the third output port 43c, and the outer conductor of the second coaxial cable 28b may be configured to connect to the fourth output port 43d. The first wire of a pair of wires 28c may be configured to connect to the fifth output port 43e, and the second wire of the pair of wires 28c may be configured to connect to the sixth output port 43f.

[0342] Figure 5a and Figure 5b The diagram shows two additional connection states, which are used in conjunction with... Figure 3a and Figure 3b The same switch network 44 is shown.

[0343] exist Figure 5a In the connection configuration shown, the active electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to both the fifth electrode 64 and the fourth electrode 62. The ground electrode or the opposite electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to both the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the first energy input port 42a to both the fourth output port 43d and the fifth output port 43e, and connects the second energy input port 42a to both the second output port 43b and the third output port 43c.

[0344] In this connected state of the switching network 44, microwave sealing can be achieved between the fifth electrode 64 and the third electrode 60 on the second jaw 36 and between the fourth electrode 62 and the second electrode 56 on the first jaw 34. Therefore, tissue can be sealed and clamped between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 from both sides.

[0345] exist Figure 5b In the connection configuration shown, the active electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to the fifth electrode 64. The ground electrode or opposite electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to the third electrode 60. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the first energy input port 42a to the fifth output port 43e and the second energy input port 42a to the third output port 43c. Furthermore, one electrode of the microwave sensor 46 is connected to the fourth electrode 62, and the other electrode of the microwave sensor 46 is connected to the second electrode 56. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the first sensing port 46a to the fourth output port 43d and the second sensing port 46b to the second output port 43b. Therefore, tissue clamped between the first jaw 34 and the second jaw 36 can be sealed from one side (e.g., from the second jaw 36). Simultaneously, the emission of microwave electromagnetic energy can be measured using the microwave sensor 46 and electrodes that do not participate in microwave sealing.

[0346] Controller 49 can be configured to periodically display in Figure 5 and Figure 5b Switching between connection states. Figure 5b The connection status can be regarded as a measurement status for periodically monitoring the progress of microwave sealing. Figure 5a The connection state can be considered a “fully” microwave-sealed state, during which a microwave seal is applied at maximum power using electrodes on both sides of the tissue.

[0347] Figure 6 The diagram shows another exemplary connection state, which uses the same logic as the previous one. Figure 3a and Figure 3b The same switch network 44 is shown.

[0348] exist Figure 6 In the connection configuration shown, the active electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to the fifth electrode 64. The ground electrode or the opposite electrode of the first generator 16 is connected to the third electrode 60. Furthermore, in... Figure 6 In the connection configuration shown, the active electrode of the second generator 17 is connected to the fifth electrode 64. The ground or return electrode of the second generator 17 is connected to the third electrode 60. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects both the first energy input port 42a and the third energy input port 42c to the fifth output port 43e and connects both the second energy input port 42a and the fourth energy input port to the third output port 43c.

[0349] Furthermore, one electrode of the RF sensor 48 is connected to both the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66. The other electrode of the RF sensor 48 is connected to the second electrode 56. This is achieved because the switching network 44 connects the third sensing port 48a to both the first output port 43a and the sixth output port 43f, and connects the fourth sensing port 48b to the second output port 43b. Thus, the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66 provide a common electrode for RF sensing.

[0350] When a certain type of tissue is adjacent to the first jaw 34 and / or the second jaw 36, the controller 66 can be configured to automatically control the switch network 44 to set, for example... Figure 6 The connection status is shown. This can be manually entered using the user interface 47 and / or automatically detected by the controller 49. The controller 49 can control the microwave sensor 46 and / or the radio frequency sensor 48 to measure the capacitance, inductance, voltage, and / or current between a pair of electrodes among the first to sixth electrodes 54 to 66. The controller 66 may include a program or table that correlates the measured values ​​with a specific type of tissue.

[0351] Figures 7a to 7d The embodiment of the electrosurgical device 12 shown includes, with Figures 2a to 2c The electrosurgical device 12 shown has the same features, characteristics and / or alternative embodiments as the embodiments shown, except for the following differences.

[0352] The electrosurgical instrument 12 does not include a fourth electrode 62, a fifth electrode 64, and a sixth electrode 66. The first electrode 54 has a T-shape in a cross-sectional view of the first jaw 34. The T-shape provides interlocking with the first isolation portion 58. The first electrode 54 may be exposed on the first surface 50.

[0353] The first electrode 54 can be the active electrode for radio frequency cutting, and the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can be return electrodes for radio frequency cutting (under the corresponding connection conditions of the switching network 44). Therefore, in Figures 7a to 7d In the illustrated embodiment, radio frequency cutting is provided along the first jaw 34, for example, between the first electrode 54 and the second electrode 56.

[0354] The first electrode 54 can also be an active electrode for microwave sealing; for example, the first electrode 54 can be connected to the same conductor used for microwave sealing, such as the inner conductor of a coaxial cable. The second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can serve as return electrodes and can also be grounding electrodes for microwave sealing.

[0355] The second isolation portion 68 is shaped to provide an open channel or slot for receiving the first electrode 54 in a closed position. The second isolation portion 68 may have the same characteristics as... Figures 2a to 2c The fifth electrode 64 has a similar U-shaped shape. In this way, in the closed position, the pressure exerted on the tissue by the first electrode 54 can be reduced because the tissue is pushed into the channel provided by the second insulating portion 68 by the first electrode and therefore experiences less compression between the first electrode 54 and the second insulating portion 58.

[0356] Figure 8 An exemplary embodiment of an electrosurgical system 100 is shown, which includes an electrosurgical instrument 12 of one embodiment of the embodiments described above, a switching network 44 of one embodiment of the embodiments described above, and / or a generator unit 14 of one embodiment of the embodiments described above, except for the differences outlined below.

[0357] Generator unit 14 includes a first generator 16 for generating microwave electromagnetic energy, a second generator 17 for generating microwave electromagnetic energy, and a third generator 19 for generating radio frequency electromagnetic energy. The third generator 19 may include a third generator port having optional features, embodiments, and / or characteristics of the first generator port 40a and / or the second generator port 40b. The third generator port may be electrically connected to a switching network 44.

[0358] The first generator port 40a and / or the second generator port 40b may not be connected to the switch network 44, but instead connected to the second to fifth electrodes 56, 60, 62, 64. The electrical connection between the first generator port 40a and the second generator port 40b (on one hand) and the electrical connection between the second to fifth electrodes 56, 60, 62, 64 (on the other hand) may be wired through the switch network. The outputs of the third generator 19, the microwave sensor 46, and / or the radio frequency sensor 48 may be connected to the first to sixth electrodes 54 to 66 as described above (although...). Figure 8 (This shows the connection states between these entities where no connection settings are configured).

[0359] The first generator 16 may have a first pole connected to the fifth electrode 64 and a second pole connected to the third electrode 60. The second generator 17 may have a first pole connected to the fourth electrode 62 and a second pole connected to the second electrode 56.

[0360] Generator unit 16 includes generator controller 102, which can communicate data with the first generator 16 and / or the second generator 17. Generator controller 102 can be configured to turn the operation of the first generator 16 and / or the second generator 17 on or off. In this way, microwave sealing performed by the fifth electrode 64 and the third electrode 60 can be activated or deactivated by turning the first generator 16 on and off respectively. Furthermore, microwave sealing performed by the fourth electrode 62 and the second electrode 56 can be activated or deactivated by turning the second generator 18 on and off respectively.

[0361] Figures 9a to 9f Exemplary embodiments of an electrosurgical device 10 in various connection states are shown, the electrosurgical device including further embodiments of electrosurgical instruments 12, a switching network 44 of one embodiment of the embodiments described above, and / or a generator unit 14 of one embodiment of the embodiments described above, except for the differences outlined below.

[0362] Compared to the implementation plan described above, Figures 9a to 9fThe electrosurgical instrument 12 includes a first power divider 110 and a second power divider 112. The first power divider 110 distributes power supplied from a fifth output port 43e. In other words, the first power divider 110 is configured to be connected to the fifth output port 43e. The second power divider 112 distributes power supplied from a third output port 43c. In other words, the second power divider 112 is configured to be connected to the third output port 43c. The electrical wiring connecting the first power divider 110 to the fifth output port 43e and the electrical wiring connecting the second power divider 112 to the third output port 43c can form a coaxial cable. For example, the first power divider 110 and the fifth output port 43e can be connected to the inner conductor of the coaxial cable, and the second power divider 112 and the third output port 43c can be connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable.

[0363] A first power divider 110 is connected to a fourth electrode 62 via a fourth electrical line and to a fifth electrode 64 via a fifth electrical line. A second power divider 112 is connected to a second electrode 56 via a second electrical line and to a third electrode 60 via a third electrical line. The fourth and second electrical lines can respectively form the inner and outer conductors of a coaxial cable. The fifth and third electrical lines can respectively form the inner and outer conductors of another coaxial cable.

[0364] For example, the first power divider 110 and the second power divider 112 can respectively represent the distribution of the inner and outer connectors of the coaxial cable within a single coaxial power divider. Therefore, the first power divider 110 and the second power divider 112 are individual power distribution connectors within a single coaxial power divider component having a single coaxial input and two coaxial outputs.

[0365] Therefore, if power is applied to the fifth output port 43e, the fourth electrode 62 and the fifth electrode 64 experience the same power. If power or ground potential is applied to the third output port 43c, the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 experience the same power or ground potential.

[0366] Figure 9a The diagram shows the connection status where output ports 43a, 43c, 43e, and 43f are not connected to the various input ports.

[0367] Figure 9bThe diagram illustrates the connection state where the third output port 43c and the fifth output port 43e are connected to the corresponding poles of the first generator 16, capable of supplying microwave electromagnetic energy. The fourth electrode 62 and the fifth electrode 64 can be active electrodes for emitting microwave energy, while the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can be counter electrodes. Furthermore, the third output port 43c and the fifth output port 43e are connected to the radio frequency sensor 48. Therefore, the fourth electrode 62 and the fifth electrode 64 can form a common electrode for radio frequency sensing, and the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can form a counter electrode for radio frequency sensing. Figure 9b The connection state allows the application of microwave energy for microwave sealing and radio frequency sensing.

[0368] Figure 9c The diagram illustrates the connection state of the third output port 43c and the fifth output port 43e, which are connected to the corresponding poles of the first generator 16 capable of supplying microwave electromagnetic energy. The fourth electrode 62 and the fifth electrode 64 can be active electrodes for emitting microwave energy, while the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can be counter electrodes. Furthermore, the third output port 43c and the fifth output port 43e are connected to the microwave sensor 46. Therefore, the fourth electrode 62 and the fifth electrode 64 can form a common electrode for microwave sensing, and the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 can form counter electrodes for microwave sensing. Figure 9c The connection state allows the application of microwave energy for microwave sealing and microwave sensing.

[0369] Figure 9d The diagram shows the connection state where the first output port 43a is connected to the functional port of the second generator 17 that can supply radio frequency energy. The sixth output port 43f is connected to the ground port of the second generator 17, which can be neutral. Figure 9d The connection state allows for radio frequency cutting between the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66. This connection state is related to... Figure 4b The connection states shown are similar.

[0370] Figure 9e The diagram illustrates the connection state where both the first output port 43a and the sixth output port 43f are connected to the functional port of the second generator 17 capable of supplying radio frequency energy. The third output port 43c is connected to the ground port of the second generator 17, which can be neutral. Figure 9e In the connected state, radio frequency cutting is performed between the first electrode 54 and the sixth electrode 66, which serve as common working electrodes, and between the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60, which serve as common return electrodes. Figure 9e Connection status and Figure 4aThe connection states are similar, the difference being that, due to the different settings of the electrosurgical instrument 12, the return port of the second generator 17 only needs to be connected to the third output port 43c, because the second power divider 112 connects the second electrode 56 and the third electrode 60 to the return port of the second generator 17.

[0371] Figure 9f The diagram illustrates the connection state where the fifth output port 43e is connected to (i) the operating port of the first generator 16 (which can supply microwave energy) and (ii) the operating port of the second generator 17 (which can supply radio frequency energy). The third output port 43c is connected to (i) the return port of the first generator 16 (which can be neutral) and (ii) the return port of the second generator 17 (which can be neutral). This connection state allows for hybrid radio frequency cutting and microwave sealing between the same electrodes.

Claims

1. An electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy from a generator unit for generating radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy to an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, the control unit comprising a first output port configured to be electrically coupled to a first electrode of the electrosurgical instrument for emitting the microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a second output port configured to be electrically coupled to a second electrode of the electrosurgical instrument for emitting the microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a third output port configured to be electrically coupled to a third electrode of the electrosurgical instrument for emitting the microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a first energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a first electrical line carrying the radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit, a second energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a second electrical line carrying the radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit, and a switch network configured to change a connection state between: the first energy input port and one of the first to third output ports to another of the first to third output ports, and the second energy input port and one of the first to third output ports to another of the first to third output ports.

2. The electrosurgical control unit of claim 1, further comprising a sensing unit configured to generate instrument information by sensing a state of the electrosurgical instrument, tissue in a treatment zone adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument, and / or a state of tissue adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument when connected to one or more of the first to third output ports.

3. The electrosurgical control unit of claim 2, further comprising a controller coupled to the sensing unit and configured to control the switch network to change the connection state based on the instrument information.

4. The electrosurgical control unit of any preceding claim, further comprising a user interface coupled to the switch network for manually changing the connection state.

5. The electrosurgical control unit of any preceding claim, further comprising a third energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a third electrical line carrying the radio frequency electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit, and a fourth energy input port configured to be electrically coupled to a fourth electrical line carrying the radio frequency electromagnetic energy generated by the generator unit, wherein the first input port and the second input port are configured to receive microwave electromagnetic energy, wherein the switch network is further configured to change the connection states of between the third energy input port and one of the first to third output ports to another one of the first to third output ports, and between the fourth energy input port and one of the first to third output ports to another one of the first to third output ports.

6. The electrosurgical control unit of any preceding claim when dependent on claim 2, wherein the sensing unit comprises a first sensing port electrically coupled to a first pole of a microwave sensor, a second sensing port electrically coupled to a second pole of the microwave sensor, a third sensing port electrically coupled to a first pole of a radio frequency sensor, and a fourth sensing port electrically coupled to a second pole of the radio frequency sensor, wherein the switch network is further configured to change the connection states of between the first sensing port and one of the first to third output ports to another one of the first to third output ports, between the second sensing port and one of the first to third output ports to another one of the first to third output ports, between the third sensing port and one of the first to third output ports to another one of the first to third output ports, and between the fourth sensing port and one of the first to third output ports to another one of the first to third output ports.

7. The electrosurgical control unit of any preceding claim, further comprising a fourth output port configured to be electrically coupled to a fourth pole of the electrosurgical instrument, the fourth pole for emitting the microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth output port configured to be electrically coupled to a fifth pole of the electrosurgical instrument, the fifth pole for emitting the microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, and / or a sixth output port configured to be electrically coupled to a sixth pole of the electrosurgical instrument, the sixth pole for emitting the microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, wherein the switch network is further configured to change the connection states between each of the first to fourth energy input ports and / or the first to fourth sensing ports and one of the first to sixth output ports to another one of the first to sixth output ports.

8. The electrosurgical control unit of any of claims 3 to 7, further comprising an interface for receiving external information about a state of the electrosurgical instrument, wherein the controller is in data communication with the interface and configured to control the switch network to change the connection states based on the external information.

9. The electrosurgical control unit of any of claims 3 to 8, wherein the instrument information provided by the sensing unit and / or the external information provided via the interface is related to an opening degree of a jaw of the electrosurgical instrument, and wherein the controller is configured to automatically change the connection state based on the degree of opening.

10. The electrosurgical control unit of any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein the controller is configured to automatically switch between a first connection state and a second connection state, wherein in the first connection state the switch network is configured to connect the first energy input port to the fourth and fifth output ports and the second energy input port to the second and third output ports, and wherein in the second connection state the switch network is configured to connect the first energy input port to the fifth output port, the second energy input port to the third output port, the first sensing port to the fourth output port, and the second sensing port to the second output port.

11. The electrosurgical control unit of any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the controller is configured to identify a type of tissue adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument based on the instrument information, and wherein the controller is further configured to control the switch network to a predetermined connection state upon determining a predetermined type of tissue, the predetermined connection state optionally comprising connecting the first energy input port to the fifth output port, connecting the second energy input port to the third output port, connecting the third energy input port to the fifth output port, connecting the fourth energy input port to the third output port, connecting the third sensing port to the first and sixth output ports, and connecting the fourth sensing port to the second output port.

12. A method for supplying microwave energy and / or radiofrequency energy to an electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, the electrosurgical instrument comprising at least a first electrode for emitting microwave energy and / or radiofrequency energy; a second electrode for emitting microwave energy and / or radiofrequency energy; and a third electrode for emitting microwave energy and / or radiofrequency energy, the method comprising the steps of supplying the microwave energy and / or radiofrequency energy to a group of the first, second, and / or third electrodes in a first mode, and supplying the microwave energy and / or radiofrequency energy to a different group of the first, second, and / or third electrodes in a second mode.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising automatically switching from the first mode to the second mode as a function of instrument information determined by measuring an electrical property of one or more of the first through third electrodes, the instrument information optionally comprising a degree of opening of a jaw of the electrosurgical instrument, a type of tissue in a treatment zone adjacent to the electrosurgical instrument, and / or a progress of cutting and / or sealing the tissue.

14. The method of claim 12, further comprising switching from the first mode to the second mode as a function of a user input.

15. The method of any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising measuring applied microwave and / or radio frequency energy by selectively connecting the first electrode, the second electrode, and / or the third electrode to a microwave sensor and / or a radio frequency sensor.

16. An electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, comprising an instrument shaft, a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a first surface, a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a second surface, a first electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a third electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and a transmission line extending in the instrument shaft for transmitting microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are movable between an open position in which the tissue can be inserted between the first surface and the second surface, and a closed position in which the first surface and the second surface are brought together to clamp the tissue therebetween, and wherein the transmission line comprises: a first electrical line electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrical line electrically connected to the second electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a second output port of the electrosurgical control unit, and a third electrical line electrically connected to the third electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a third output port of the electrosurgical control unit.

17. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 16, further comprising a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and / or a sixth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, wherein the transmission line further comprises: a fourth electrical line electrically connected to the fourth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a fourth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth electrical line electrically connected to the fifth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a fifth output port of the electrosurgical control unit, and / or a sixth electrical line electrically connected to the sixth electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a sixth output port of the electrosurgical control unit.

18. An electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, comprising an instrument shaft, a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a first surface, a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a second surface, a first electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a third electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and a transmission line extending through the instrument shaft for conveying microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy, wherein the first and second jaws are movable between an open position in which tissue can be inserted between the first and second surfaces and a closed position in which the first and second surfaces are brought together to clamp the tissue therebetween, and wherein the transmission line comprises: a first power distributor configured to be connected to a fifth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the fifth output port, a second power distributor configured to be connected to a third output port of the electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the third output port, a first electrical line electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of the electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrical line electrically connecting the second electrode to the second power distributor, a third electrical line electrically connecting the third electrode to the second power distributor, a fourth electrical line electrically connecting the fourth electrode to the first power distributor, and a fifth electrical line electrically connecting the fifth electrode to the first power distributor.

19. An electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, comprising an instrument shaft, a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a first surface, a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a second surface, a first electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fourth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a sixth electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and a transmission line extending in the instrument shaft for conveying microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy, wherein the first and second jaws are movable between an open position in which tissue can be inserted between the first and second surfaces and a closed position in which the first and second surfaces are brought together to clamp the tissue therebetween, and wherein the transmission line comprises: a first power distributor configured to be connected to a fifth output port of an electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the fifth output port, a second power distributor configured to be connected to a third output port of the electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the third output port, a first electrical line electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of the electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a second electrical line electrically connecting the second electrode to the second power distributor, a third electrical line electrically connecting the third electrode to the second power distributor, a fourth electrical line electrically connecting the fourth electrode to the first power distributor, and a fifth electrical line electrically connecting the fifth electrode to the first power distributor. a first electrical line electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of the electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy, a fourth electrical line electrically connecting the fourth electrode to the first power distributor, a fifth electrical line electrically connecting the fifth electrode to the first power distributor, and a sixth electrical line electrically connected to the first electrode and configured to be electrically coupled to a first output port of the electrosurgical control unit for controlling the supply of microwave energy and / or radio frequency energy.

20. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 19, further comprising a second electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and a third electrode for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, wherein the transmission line further comprises: a second power distributor configured to be connected to a third output port of the electrosurgical control unit for distributing power received from the third output port, a second electrical line electrically connecting the second electrode to the second power distributor, and a third electrical line electrically connecting the third electrode to the second power distributor.

21. The electrosurgical instrument of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the first line electrical line and / or the sixth electrical line comprises a wire, the second line electrical line and / or the third electrical line is an outer conductor of a coaxial cable, and / or the fourth line electrical line and / or the fifth electrical line is an inner conductor of the coaxial cable.

22. The electrosurgical instrument of any one of claims 16 to 21, further comprising a sensor configured to detect whether the first jaw and the second jaw are opened above a predetermined threshold, and wherein the sensor is configured to be electronically coupled to an interface of the electrosurgical control unit.

23. An electrosurgical generator assembly for sealing and / or cutting tissue, comprising: a generator unit for generating radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy, and the electrosurgical control unit of any one of claims 1 to 11.

24. The generator assembly of claim 23, wherein the electrosurgical control unit and the generator unit are arranged in a common housing, or the electrosurgical control unit and the generator unit are separate components from each other.

25. An electrosurgical apparatus for sealing and / or cutting tissue, comprising the generator assembly of any one of claims 23 or 24, and the electrosurgical instrument of any one of claims 16 to 22.

26. An electrosurgical system for sealing and / or cutting tissue, comprising a generator unit for generating radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy, and the electrosurgical control unit of any one of claims 1 to 11. An electrosurgical instrument for sealing and / or cutting tissue, wherein the generator unit comprises a first generator comprising a first pole and a second pole, and a second generator comprising a first pole and a second pole, and a generator controller for controlling operation of the first generator and the second generator, wherein the electrosurgical instrument comprises an instrument shaft, a first jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a first surface, a second jaw attached to the instrument shaft and comprising a second surface, a second pole for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a third pole for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fourth pole for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, a fifth pole for emitting microwave and / or radio frequency energy, and a transmission line extending in the instrument shaft for transmitting microwave and / or radio frequency electromagnetic energy, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are movable between an open position in which tissue can be inserted between the first surface and the second surface, and a closed position in which the first surface and the second surface are brought together to clamp the tissue therebetween, and wherein the transmission line comprises: a fifth electrical line electrically connected to the fifth pole and electrically coupled to the first pole of the first generator, a third electrical line electrically connected to the third pole and electrically coupled to the second pole of the first generator, a fourth electrical line electrically connected to the fourth pole and electrically coupled to the first pole of the second generator, a second electrical line electrically connected to the second pole and electrically coupled to the second pole of the second generator, wherein the generator controller is configured to activate the first generator to cause the first generator to emit radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fifth pole and the third pole, deactivate the first generator to cause the first generator to stop emitting radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fifth pole and the third pole, activate the second generator to cause the second generator to emit radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fourth pole and the second pole, and deactivate the second generator to cause the second generator to stop emitting radio frequency and / or microwave electromagnetic energy between the fourth pole and the second pole.

27. The electrosurgical system of claim 26, further comprising the electrosurgical control unit of any one of claims 1 to 11.

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