Detecting tissue tear and providing operator feedback

Abstract

A surgical system is disclosed, the surgical system comprising an electrosurgical instrument and a controller, the controller is operable to monitor a current provided to the electrosurgical instrument from the power source, detect that the current reaches or exceeds a current threshold, compare a power ratio provided to the electrosurgical instrument from the power source to a power ratio threshold based on the current reaching or exceeding the current threshold, a timer is started to measure an elapsed time based on the power ratio being less than a power ratio threshold, and an action is performed based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This disclosure relates to surgical systems, and more specifically to bipolar forceps for use in surgical procedures.

[0002] Bipolar forceps are used in various electrosurgical procedures. When using bipolar forceps, the tips of the electrodes may tear or penetrate the patient's tissue when bipolar energy is supplied. When this happens, the electrodes can make electrical contact, allowing current to flow through the bipolar forceps instead of the patient's tissue, thus resulting in no tissue effect.

[0003] When bipolar clamps appear to be malfunctioning, the lack of tissue effect can lead to frustration and confusion. Therefore, there is a need for improved systems and methods for detecting when tissue tearing is present when using bipolar clamps. Attached Figure Description

[0004] The following figures are included to illustrate certain aspects of this disclosure and should not be considered as exclusive embodiments. The subject matter disclosed herein is capable of numerous modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0005] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a computer-implemented interactive surgical system according to at least one aspect of this disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 It is a diagram of various modules (including energy modules, aspiration modules, and inhalation modules) and other components that can be combined to customize a modular surgical system according to at least one aspect of this disclosure.

[0007] Figure 3 It is based on at least one aspect of this disclosure Figure 2 The energy module and various surgical instruments that can be used with it.

[0008] Figure 4A This is a first exemplary modular surgical system configuration according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the first exemplary modular surgical system configuration including a head module and a display screen displaying a graphical user interface (GUI) for relaying information about modules connected to the head module.

[0009] Figure 4B It is installed on the cart according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 4A An isometric view of the modular surgical system shown.

[0010] Figure 5 The second exemplary modular surgical system configuration according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure includes a head module, a display screen, a dual-energy module, and a suction module connected together and mounted to a trolley.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a modular surgical system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a modular surgical system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 8 It is a control based on at least one aspect of this disclosure Figure 7 A modular surgical system approach. Detailed Implementation

[0014] This disclosure relates to surgical systems, and more specifically to bipolar forceps for use in surgical procedures.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a computer-implemented interactive surgical system 100 (hereinafter "surgical system 100") that can be used according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. Surgical system 100 includes one or more sub-surgical systems 102 and a cloud-based system (e.g., cloud 104) that may include a remote server 113 communicating with a storage device 105. Each sub-surgical system 102 includes at least one surgical hub 106 communicating with the cloud 104, which may include the remote server 113.

[0016] In one example, such as Figure 1 As illustrated, each sub-surgical system 102 includes a visualization system 108, a robotic system 110, and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument 112, which are configured to communicate with each other and / or with a hub 106. In some aspects, each sub-surgical system 102 may include M hubs 106, N visualization systems 108, O robotic systems 110, and P handheld intelligent surgical instruments 112, where M, N, O, and P are integers greater than or equal to one. Surgical system 100 is described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 11,666,368, entitled “METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING AND USING A MODULARSURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE DEVICES,” published June 6, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] See now Figure 2 Example surgical hub 106 ( Figure 1The system may be embodied as a modular surgical system 200, which may include various different modules 201 capable of being connected together in a stacked configuration. In one aspect, the modules 201 may be physically and communicatively coupled together when stacked or otherwise connected together to form a single component. Furthermore, the modules 201 may be interchangeably connected together in different combinations or arrangements. In one aspect, each module in the module 201 may include a consistent or universal array of connectors disposed along its upper and lower surfaces, thereby allowing any module 201 to be connected to another module 201 in any arrangement (the difference being that, in some aspects, a particular module type (such as head module 202) may be configured to be used as, for example, the topmost module within a stack). In another aspect, the modular surgical system 200 may include a housing configured to receive and hold the modules 201. The modular surgical system 200 may also include various different parts or accessories that can also be connected to or otherwise associated with the modules 201.

[0018] The modular surgical system 200 can be assembled from a variety of different modules 201, some examples of which are shown in... Figure 2 As illustrated below. Each module in the different types of modules 201 can provide different functions, thereby allowing the modular surgical system 200 to be assembled into different configurations to customize the functions and capabilities of the modular surgical system 200 (e.g., by customizing the functions and capabilities of the modular surgical system 200 by customizing the modules 201 included in each modular surgical system 200). Modules 201 of the modular surgical system 200 may include, for example, a head module 202 (which may include a display 206), an energy module 204, a suction module 208, an inhalation module 210, and a visualization module 212.

[0019] The modular surgical system 200 may also include various accessories 229 that can be connected to the module 201 to control its functions or otherwise configured to work in conjunction with the modular surgical system 200. Accessories 229 may include, for example, a single-pedal foot switch 232, a double-pedal foot switch 234, and a trolley 230 for supporting the modular surgical system 200 thereon. Foot switches 232 and 234 may be configured to control the activation or function of, for example, a specific energy mode output by the energy module 204.

[0020] In one aspect, the head module 202 is configured to function as a top or uppermost module within a modular surgical system stack, and therefore may be connector-free along its top surface. In another aspect, the head module 202 can be configured to be positioned at the bottom or lowermost module (i.e., the "base" module) within the modular surgical system stack, and therefore may be connector-free along its bottom surface. In yet another aspect, the head module 202 can be configured to be positioned at an intermediate location within the modular surgical system stack, and therefore may include connectors along both its bottom and top surfaces. The head module 202 can be configured to be accessible via physical controls 411 on the head module ( Figure 4A ) and / or a graphical user interface (GUI) 408 presented on display 206. Figure 4A The head module 202 can be configured to control system-level settings for each module 201 and the components connected to each module. Such settings may include activation of the modular surgical system 200, alarm volume, foot switch settings, settings icons, the appearance or configuration of the user interface, surgeon profiles logged into the modular surgical system 200, and / or the type of surgical procedure being performed. The head module 202 can also be configured to provide communication, processing, and / or power to modules 201 connected to it.

[0021] Energy module 204 (or generator module) can be configured to generate one or more energy modes for driving electrosurgical instruments and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments connected to the energy module. See, for example, [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 3 The generator 204 is configured to drive multiple surgical instruments 300, 330, 360, and 390. The first surgical instrument is an ultrasonic surgical instrument 300 and includes a handpiece 302 (HP), an ultrasonic transducer 304, a shaft 306, and an end effector 308. The end effector 308 includes a gripping arm 312 and an ultrasonic scalpel 310 acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer 304. The handpiece 302 includes a trigger 314 for operating the gripping arm 312 and a combination of toggle buttons 316a, 316b, and 316c for powering and driving the ultrasonic scalpel 310 or other functions. The toggle buttons 316a-c can be configured to power the ultrasonic transducer 304 using the generator 204.

[0022] Generator 204 is also configured to drive a second surgical instrument 330, which is an RF electrosurgical instrument and includes a handpiece 332 (HP), a shaft 334, and an end effector 336. The end effector 336 includes electrodes in gripping arms 338a, 338b and returns through an electrically conductive portion of the shaft 334. These electrodes are coupled to and powered by a bipolar energy source within generator 204. The handpiece 332 includes a manually actuable trigger 340 for operating the gripping arms 338a, 338b and an energy button 342 for actuating an energy switch to power the electrodes in the end effector 336.

[0023] Generator 204 is also configured to drive a third surgical instrument 360, which is a multi-functional surgical instrument 360 and includes a handpiece 362 (HP), a shaft 364, and an end effector 366. The end effector 366 includes an ultrasonic scalpel 368 and a clamping arm 370. The ultrasonic scalpel 368 is acoustically coupled to an ultrasonic transducer 372. The handpiece 362 includes a trigger 374 for operating the clamping arm 370 and a combination of toggle buttons 376a, 376b, and 376c for powering and driving the ultrasonic scalpel 368 or other functions. The toggle buttons 376a-c can be configured to power the ultrasonic transducer 372 using generator 204 and the ultrasonic scalpel 368 using a bipolar energy source also included in generator 204. Other aspects of the surgical instruments are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,624,691, entitled “TECHNIQUES FOR OPERATING GENERATOR FOR DIGITALLYGENERATING ELECTRICAL SIGNAL WAVEFORMS AND SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, published on April 21, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0024] Generator 204 is also configured to drive a fourth surgical instrument 390, which is a bipolar clamp including a first arm 392, a second arm 394, a first electrode 396 located at the distal end of the first arm 392, and a second electrode 398 located at the distal end of the second arm 394. The first arm 392 and the second arm 394 can be gripped by a user to position the first electrode 396 and the second electrode 398 relative to each other. The first electrode 396 and the second electrode 398 are coupled to and powered by a bipolar energy source within generator 204, and are powered based on input provided by the user to an energy switch (such as a single-pedal foot switch 232 or a double-pedal foot switch 234).

[0025] Pumping module 208 ( Figure 2The device may be configured to expel fumes, fluids, and / or particles generated by the application of therapeutic energy to tissue by one or more of the surgical instruments 300, 330, and 360. Example expulsion modules are described in more detail elsewhere herein and in U.S. Patent No. 11,602,393, entitled “SURGICAL EVACUATION SENSING AND GENERATOR CONTROL,” published March 14, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Blow-in module 210 ( Figure 2 It can be configured to blow air or gas into a patient's body cavity to inflate it for diagnostic or surgical purposes, thereby providing better visibility and access during surgery.

[0026] Visualization Module 212 ( Figure 2 It can be configured to interact with visualization devices (i.e., observation devices) and thus enhance visualization capabilities. Example visualization modules and systems are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 11,284,963, entitled “METHODOF USING IMAGING DEVICES IN SURGERY,” published March 29, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] By utilizing modular components, the depicted modular surgical system 200 provides a surgical platform that is optimized for technological availability and can be customized to the needs of facilities and / or surgeons. Furthermore, the modular energy system 200 supports combined devices (e.g., dual-electrosurgical and ultrasound energy generators) and software-driven algorithms for customized tissue effects. Additionally, the surgical system architecture reduces capital footprint by combining multiple technologies crucial for surgical procedures into a single system.

[0028] Various modular components that can be used in conjunction with the modular surgical system 200 may include a monopolar energy generator, a bipolar energy generator, a dual-electric surgical / ultrasound energy generator, a display screen, and various other modules and / or other components, as described elsewhere in this document.

[0029] See now Figure 4A In some aspects, head module 202 may include display screen 206, which presents GUI 408 for relaying information about module 201 connected to head module 202. Figure 2Information. In some aspects, the GUI 408 of the display screen 206 can provide a unified control point for all modules 201 constituting a specific configuration of the modular surgical system 200. In another aspect, the head module 202 may not include the display screen 206, or the display screen 206 may be detachably connected (able to be detachably attached) to the housing 410 of the head module 202. In such aspects, the head module 202 can be communicatively coupled to an external system configured to display information generated by the modules 201 of the modular surgical system 200. For example, in robotic surgery applications, the modular power system 200 can be communicatively coupled to a robotic cart or robotic console configured to display information generated by the modular power system 200 to the operator of the robotic surgical system. As another example, the modular surgical system 200 can be communicatively coupled to a mobile display that can be carried or attached to a surgical worker for viewing. In terms of utilizing a user interface that is separate from or otherwise different from the modular surgical system 200, the user interface may be wirelessly connected to the modular surgical system 200 as a whole or one or more modules 201 thereon, such that the user interface can display information from the connected module 200 thereon.

[0030] See still Figure 4A The energy module 204 may include a port assembly 412 that includes (provides) a plurality of different ports configured to deliver different energy modes to corresponding surgical instruments that can be connected to these ports (e.g., Figure 3 Surgical instruments 300, 330, 360). In such... Figure 4A In a specific aspect shown, port assembly 412 includes a bipolar port 414, a first unipolar port 416a, a second unipolar port 416b, a neutral electrode port 418 (to which a unipolar return pad can be connected), and a combined energy port 420. However, this particular combination of ports is for illustrative purposes only, and alternative combinations of ports and / or energy modes are possible for port assembly 412.

[0031] As described above, the modular surgical system 200 can be assembled into different configurations. Furthermore, different configurations of the modular energy system 200 can also be used for different types of surgical procedures and / or different tasks. For example, Figure 4A and Figure 4B A first exemplary configuration of a modular surgical system 200 is illustrated, comprising a head module 202 (including a display screen 206) and an energy module 204 connected together. This configuration is suitable for, for example, laparoscopic and open surgical procedures. Figure 4BAs shown, the modular surgical system 200 can be positioned on a trolley 230, allowing the modular surgical system 200 to be easily moved (pushed) around, for example, the operating room.

[0032] Figure 5 A second exemplary configuration of the modular surgical system 200 is shown, comprising a head module 202 (including a display screen 206), a first energy module 204a, a second energy module 204b, and a drainage module 208 connected together and positioned on a trolley 230. In this configuration, the drainage module 208 can drain fumes, fluids, and / or particles generated by surgical instruments powered by the energy modules 204a and 204b.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an example modular surgical system 600 according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown, the modular surgical system 600 includes a head module 202 (including a display screen 206), an energy module 204 stacked below and coupled to the head module 202, an exhaust module 208 stacked below and coupled to the energy module 204, and an inhalation module 210 stacked below and coupled to the exhaust module 208.

[0034] Head module 202 is configured to monitor, control, power, and provide feedback on the operation of modules within the modular surgical system 600, such as energy module 204, exhaust module 208, and blow-in module 210. As shown, head module 202 includes a controller 620, which includes a processor 622 and a memory 624 storing computer-readable instructions executable by processor 622 to perform the functions and operations of head module 602. Examples of memory 624 include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), computer chips, optical discs (e.g., compact optical discs (CDs), digital video optical discs (DVDs), etc.), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disk drives (HDDs), floppy disks, ZIP® disks, etc.), magnetic tapes, and solid-state storage devices (e.g., memory cards, “flash” media, etc.). As used herein, the term “computer-readable medium” means any device or system used to store information (e.g., data and instructions) and provide it to processor 622. Examples of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, optical discs, magnetic disks, magnetic tapes, solid-state media, and servers for streaming media over a network.

[0035] Based on instructions stored in memory 624, processor 622 can be configured to control power and data transmission between head module 202, energy module 204, exhaust module 208, and air-in module 210 via power interface 608 and data interface 610. For example, head module 202 can transmit various commands to energy module 204, exhaust module 208 (via energy module 204), and air-in module 210 (via energy module 204 and exhaust module 208) via data interface 610. Such commands may be based on user input received at display 206 or input received by controller 620 from various sensors communicatively coupled to the modular surgical system 600, as discussed elsewhere herein.

[0036] As another example, power can be transferred from head module 202 to energy module 204, exhaust module 208 (via energy module 204), and blow-in module 210 (via energy module 204 and exhaust module 208) via power interface 608. Head module 202 can receive power from an external power source 660 (referred to herein as "AC power") (e.g., a wall socket). Head module 202 may include an AC / DC converter 662 that receives AC power from AC power source 660 and converts the AC power to DC power. Controller 202 can then distribute the DC power to energy module 204, exhaust module 208, and blow-in module 210 via power interface 608. Controller 620 may also include a timer 626 to measure elapsed time. Head module 202 may include sensors 628, such as current sensors and / or power sensors, which are operatively communicated with controller 620, for measuring current and power along power interface 608.

[0037] like Figure 6 As shown, the energy module 204 may include a controller 680, which includes a processor 682 and a memory 684 storing computer-readable instructions executable by the processor 682 to perform the functions and operations of the energy module 204. The processor 682 and memory 684 may be similar to processor 622 and memory 624, respectively. The controller 680 may receive power from an AC / DC converter 662 along a power interface 608 and may operatively communicate with a controller 620 via a data interface 610.

[0038] Energy module 204 may also include energy generator 670. Energy generator 670 may receive power from AC / DC converter 662 along power interface 608 and may operatively communicate with controller 680, for example, via wired or wireless connection. Energy generator 670 is operable to provide therapeutic energy to one or more surgical instruments, such as surgical instruments 300, 330, 360, 390, via port assembly 412, such as via bipolar port 414 (FIG. 4), first unipolar port 416a or second unipolar port 416b (FIG. 4), or combined energy port 420 (FIG. 4)). For example, energy generator 670 may be powered using DC power supplied to it from AC / DC converter 662 along power interface 608. Controller 680 may then receive input, such as input from controller 620. Based on this input, controller 680 may control energy generator 670 to provide therapeutic energy to one or more surgical instruments coupled to energy module 204 at port assembly 412. The energy generator 670 may include a sensor 672, such as a current sensor and / or a power sensor, which is operatively communicateable with, for example, a controller 680, for measuring the current and / or power supplied by the energy generator 670. The sensor 672 may also include an impedance sensor for measuring the impedance of tissue grasped by a surgical instrument.

[0039] like Figure 6 As shown, display screen 206 includes a touchscreen 630 coupled to touch controller 632. Touch controller 632 is coupled to controller 620 to read input from touchscreen 630, such as user input. Controller 620 drives LCD display 640 via display / port video output signal 642. Controller 620 is also coupled to audio amplifier 652 to drive one or more speakers 650.

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic block diagram of another example of a modular surgical system 700 according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. The modular surgical system 700 may be similar in some respects to... Figure 6 The modular surgical system 600 is therefore best understood with reference to it. As shown, for example, the modular surgical system 700 includes a head module 202 with a controller 620, a display 206 coupled to (and in communication with) the head module 202, and an energy module 204 stacked below and communicatively coupled to the head module and including a controller 680. The modular surgical system 700 may include additional modules as described elsewhere herein, such as an inhalation module 210 and / or an aspiration module 208. The modular surgical system 700 may also include, as described herein, [see references to other systems]. Figure 3 The bipolar clamp 390 is electrically coupled to the energy module 204 at a bipolar port 414 (FIG. 4).

[0041] During operation, see now. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Users such as surgeons may wish to use the electrodes 396, 398 of the bipolar clamp 390 to deliver electrosurgical energy to patient tissue 702. The user may initially provide input to the controller 620 indicating the operating mode of the bipolar clamp 390. For example, the bipolar clamp 390 may be used in a first "manual" mode or a second "automatic" mode.

[0042] In manual mode, the user can grasp the arms 392, 394 of the bipolar clamp 390 (or otherwise apply a lateral load thereon) and use them to grasp the patient tissue 702 between the ends of the arms 392, 394. When the user wishes to provide electrosurgical energy to the patient tissue 702 using the electrodes 396, 398 of the bipolar clamp 390, the user can provide input to the controller 620, for example, via a foot switch 232. Based on this input, the controller 620 can provide input to the controller 680 of the energy module 204, which in turn controls the energy generator 670 ( Figure 6 ( ) to supply power to electrodes 396 and 398 of bipolar clamp 390.

[0043] In automatic mode, the user can grasp the arms 392, 394 of the bipolar clamp 390 (or otherwise apply a lateral load thereon). When the user wishes to deliver electrosurgical energy to the patient tissue 702 using the electrodes 396, 398 of the bipolar clamp 390, the user can grasp the patient tissue 702 between the ends of the arms 392, 394. The controller 680 can automatically detect the patient tissue 702 grasped by the arms 392, 394 of the bipolar clamp 390. As an example, the sensor 672 may include an impedance sensor, and the sensor 672 may detect changes in impedance based on the grasping of the patient tissue 702 by the arms 392, 394 of the bipolar clamp 390. As another example, the arms 392, 394 of the bipolar clamp 390 may include a pressure sensor that detects pressure applied thereto, such as the patient tissue 702 being grasped therefrom. Based on the detection that the patient tissue 702 is gripped by the bipolar clamp 390, the controller 680 can automatically control the energy generator 670 to supply power to the electrodes 396, 398 of the bipolar clamp 390.

[0044] When using the bipolar clamp 390, the tips of electrodes 396 and 398 may tear or penetrate the patient tissue 702 when bipolar energy is supplied to it. When this occurs, electrodes 396 and 398 may make electrical contact, allowing current to flow through the bipolar clamp 390 instead of the patient tissue 702, resulting in no tissue effect.

[0045] When the bipolar clamp 390 appears to be malfunctioning, the lack of tissue effect can lead to frustration and confusion. Therefore, there is a need for improved systems and methods for detecting when tissue tearing is present when utilizing the bipolar clamp 390.

[0046] Figure 8 It is a control based on at least one aspect of this disclosure Figure 7 A schematic flowchart of an example method 800 for a modular surgical system 700. Method 800 may be embodied in a controller 620 ( Figure 7 ) memory 624 ( Figure 6 The algorithm in ) and can be controlled by the processor 622 of the controller 620 ( Figure 6 Based on user input provided to controller 620 (such as on touchscreen 630 of controller 620) Figure 6 The algorithm can be executed at (location 680). Alternatively, the algorithm can be stored in the controller 680. Figure 7 ) memory 684 ( Figure 6 In, and can be controlled by the processor 682 of the controller 680. Figure 6 Based on user input to controller 680 (such as via touchscreen 630) Figure 6 To execute.

[0047] See Figure 6-8 Method 1400 may include monitoring the current supplied from a power source to the electrosurgical instrument, as at step 802. For example, when a user wishes to power the electrodes 396, 398 of the bipolar clamp 390, the user may provide an input to the controller 620, such as via a foot switch 232. Based on this input, the controller 620 may provide an input to the controller 680 of the energy module 204, which may control the energy generator 670 to power the electrodes 396, 398 of the bipolar clamp 390. While the energy generator 670 is supplying power to the bipolar clamp 390, the controller 640 may simultaneously monitor the current supplied to the bipolar clamp 390, such as using a sensor 672.

[0048] Method 800 may further include comparing the measured current with a current threshold, as at step 804. For example, the memory 644 of controller 640 may include (where the current threshold is already stored) and controller 640 may be operable to compare the monitored (measured) current with the current threshold, such as continuously, periodically, or at predetermined intervals. Based on the current being below the current threshold, controller 640 may loop back to step 802.

[0049] Method 800 may further include comparing the power ratio supplied to the electrosurgical instrument with a power ratio threshold, as at step 806. For example, based on the controller 640 detecting that the current has reached or exceeded the current threshold, the controller 640 may assume (determine) that the patient tissue 702 operated by the bipolar clamp 390 has been torn (or penetrated), resulting in a short circuit between electrodes 396, 398, which has caused the current to reach or exceed the current threshold. To verify this assumption (determination), the controller 640 may continue to compare the power ratio supplied to the bipolar clamp 390 by the energy generator 670 with a power ratio threshold, which may also be stored in memory 664. The controller 640 may monitor the absolute value of the power ratio supplied to the bipolar clamp 390, for example, using sensor 672. Based on the absolute value of the power ratio being higher than the power ratio threshold, the controller 680 may determine that the patient tissue 702 has not been torn. Therefore, the controller 680 may loop back to step 802.

[0050] Method 800 may also include starting a timer to measure the elapsed time, as at step 808. For example, based on controller 680 detecting that the absolute value of the power ratio is below a power ratio threshold, controller 680 may have additional confidence in the hypothesis that the patient tissue 702 has been torn (or penetrated). To further verify this hypothesis, controller 680 may provide input to controller 620, which may then continue to start timer 626 to measure the amount of time elapsed when the current is at or above a current threshold and the absolute value of the power ratio is below a power ratio threshold.

[0051] Method 800 may further include comparing the current to a current threshold and / or comparing the power ratio to a power ratio threshold, as at step 810. For example, as timer 626 measures elapsed time, controller 680 may monitor the current and / or power against their respective thresholds, such as continuously, periodically, or at predetermined intervals. Based on a current drop below a current threshold and / or a power ratio increase above a power ratio threshold, controller 680 may determine that the patient tissue 702 is not torn. Therefore, controller 620 may reset timer 626, as at step 812, and controller 680 may cycle back to step 802.

[0052] Method 800 may also include performing an action based on an elapsed time reaching a time threshold, as at step 814. For example, controller 680 may detect that the current is maintained above a current threshold and the absolute value of the power ratio is maintained below a power ratio threshold for a threshold amount of time (time threshold), which may be stored in memory 644 or memory 624. Based on this detection, controller 680 may determine that the patient tissue 702 has been torn, and therefore the action may continue. This action may include providing input to controller 620, which, in response, may generate (provide) alarms on display 206, such as information instructing the user that the patient tissue 702 has been torn and the bipolar clamp 390 should be repositioned, generating (providing) an auditory alarm via speaker 650, generating a visual alarm (e.g., light), storing a record of the tissue tear in one of the two memories 624, 684, which may be used as a metric by the user (surgeon) for future improvements, or stopping the supply of therapeutic energy from energy generator 670 to bipolar clamp 390, or a combination thereof.

[0053] Therefore, the aforementioned system and method can detect when tissue tearing occurs when using electrosurgical instruments such as bipolar forceps 390, thereby reducing user frustration when the electrosurgical instruments appear not to be working properly.

[0054] The implementation plan disclosed in this article includes:

[0055] A. A surgical system comprising an electrosurgical instrument and a controller, the controller being operable to monitor current supplied from a power source to the electrosurgical instrument, detect that the current reaches or exceeds a current threshold, compare a power ratio supplied from the power source to the electrosurgical instrument with a power ratio threshold based on the current reaching or exceeding the current threshold, start a timer to measure elapsed time based on the power ratio being less than the power ratio threshold, and perform an action based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

[0056] B. A surgical system comprising: an energy module operatively coupled to an electrosurgical instrument and a controller, the controller being operable to compare a current supplied from the energy module to the electrosurgical instrument with a current threshold, compare a power ratio supplied from the energy module to the electrosurgical instrument with a power ratio threshold, activate a timer to measure elapsed time based on the current being at or above the current threshold and the absolute value of the power ratio being below the power ratio threshold, and perform an action based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

[0057] C. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to compare a current supplied from a power source to an electrosurgical instrument with a current threshold, compare a power ratio supplied from the power source to the electrosurgical instrument with a power ratio threshold, start a timer to measure elapsed time based on the current being at or above the current threshold and the absolute value of the power ratio being below the power ratio threshold, and perform an action based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

[0058] Each of Implementation Scheme A and Implementation Scheme B may have any combination of one or more of the following additional elements: Element 1: The electrosurgical instrument includes a bipolar clamp. Element 2: It also includes a display, wherein the action includes providing an alarm on the display. Element 3: It also includes a speaker, wherein the action includes providing an audible alarm via the speaker. Element 4: The action includes stopping the supply of power to the electrosurgical instrument. Element 5: The controller is further operable to detect when the timer measures elapsed time, detect that the current has dropped below the current threshold, and reset the timer based on the current dropping below the current threshold. Element 6: The controller is further operable to detect when the timer measures elapsed time, detect that the power ratio supplied to the electrosurgical instrument has increased above the power ratio threshold, and reset the timer based on the power ratio increasing above the power ratio threshold.

[0059] As a non-limiting example, example combinations applicable to A, B, and C include: element 1 and element 2; element 1 and element 3; element 1 and element 4; element 1 and element 5; element 1 and element 6; element 1 and two or more of elements 2-6; element 2 and element 3; element 2 and element 4; element 2 and element 5; element 2 and element 6; element 2 and two or more of elements 1 and elements 3-6; element 3 and element 4; element 3 and element 5; element 3 and element 6; element 3 and two or more of elements 1, 2, and 4-6; element 4 and element 5; element 4 and element 6; element 4 and two or more of elements 1-3, 5, and 6; element 5 and element 6; element 5 and elements 1-4 and element 6; element 6 and two or more of elements 1-5.

[0060] Therefore, the systems and methods disclosed herein are highly suitable for achieving the aforementioned results and advantages, as well as those inherent therein. The specific embodiments disclosed above are merely illustrative, as the teachings of this disclosure can be modified and implemented in different but equivalent ways that will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, there are no limitations on the details of the constructions or designs shown herein, except as described in the following claims. It is therefore apparent that the specific illustrative embodiments disclosed above may be changed, combined, or modified, and all such changes are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure. The systems and methods illustratively disclosed herein may be suitably implemented in the absence of any elements not specifically disclosed herein and / or any optional elements disclosed herein. While compositions and methods are described according to various components or steps “comprising,” “containing,” or “including,” such compositions and methods may also “consist substantially of various components or steps” or “comprise various components or steps.” All numerical values ​​and ranges disclosed above may vary in some quantities. Whenever a numerical range with a lower and upper limit is disclosed, any numerical value falling within that range and any included range are specifically disclosed. Specifically, each range of values ​​disclosed herein (in the form of "about a to about b" or equivalent "about a to b" or equivalent "from about ab") should be understood to list each numerical value and range covered within a broader range of values. Furthermore, the terms in the claims have their ordinary, general meaning unless otherwise expressly and clearly defined by the patentee. Additionally, the indefinite articles "a" or "an" used in the claims are defined herein as referring to one or more elements introduced therein, rather than a single element. If the use of words or terms in this specification conflicts in any way with one or more patents or other documents that may be incorporated herein by reference, the definitions consistent with this specification shall prevail.

[0061] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of..." preceding a series of items (separated by the terms "and" or "or") modifies the list as a whole, not each member of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase "at least one of..." allows for the meaning of at least one of any of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of items, and / or at least one of each of the items. As an example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" respectively mean: only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0062] Directional terms such as above, below, up, down, upward, downward, left, right, etc., are used relative to exemplary embodiments as they are shown in the figures, with the upward direction pointing towards the top of the corresponding figure and the downward direction pointing towards the bottom of the corresponding figure.

Claims

1. A surgical system comprising: Electrosurgical instruments; and Controller, the controller being operable to: Monitor the current supplied from the power source to the electrosurgical instrument; The current is detected to reach or exceed a current threshold. Based on the current reaching or exceeding the current threshold, the power ratio supplied from the power source to the electrosurgical instrument is compared with the power ratio threshold. Based on the fact that the power ratio is less than the power ratio threshold, a timer is started to measure the elapsed time; as well as An action is performed based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

2. The surgical system of claim 1, wherein, The electrosurgical instruments include bipolar forceps.

3. The surgical system of claim 1, further comprising a display, wherein, The action includes providing an alarm on the display.

4. The surgical system of claim 1, further comprising a speaker, wherein, The action includes providing an auditory alarm via the speaker.

5. The surgical system of claim 1, wherein, The action includes stopping the supply of power to the electrosurgical instrument.

6. The surgical system of claim 1, wherein, The controller can be further operated as follows: When the timer measures the elapsed time, it detects that the current has dropped below the current threshold; and The timer is reset based on the current dropping below the current threshold.

7. The surgical system of claim 1, wherein, The controller can be further operated as follows: When the timer measures the elapsed time, it detects that the power ratio supplied to the electrosurgical instrument has increased above the power ratio threshold; and The timer is reset based on the power ratio increasing to above the power ratio threshold.

8. A surgical system comprising: An energy module, operatively coupled to an electrosurgical instrument; as well as The controller is operable as follows: The current supplied from the energy module to the electrosurgical instrument is compared with a current threshold. The power ratio supplied from the energy module to the electrosurgical instrument is compared with a power ratio threshold. A timer is started to measure the elapsed time based on the current being at or above the current threshold and the absolute value of the power ratio being below the power ratio threshold. as well as An action is performed based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

9. The surgical system of claim 8, wherein, The electrosurgical instruments include bipolar forceps.

10. The surgical system of claim 8, further comprising a display, wherein, The action includes providing an alarm on the display.

11. The surgical system of claim 8, further comprising a speaker, wherein the action includes providing an auditory alarm via the speaker.

12. The surgical system of claim 8, wherein, The action includes stopping the supply of power from the energy module to the electrosurgical instrument.

13. The surgical system of claim 8, wherein, The controller can be further operated as follows: When the timer measures the elapsed time, it detects that the current has dropped below the current threshold; and The timer is reset based on the current dropping below the current threshold.

14. The modular surgical system of Claim 8, wherein, The controller can be further operated as follows: When the timer measures the elapsed time, it detects that the power ratio supplied to the electrosurgical instrument has increased above the power ratio threshold; and The timer is reset based on the power ratio increasing to above the power ratio threshold.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: The current supplied from the power source to the electrosurgical instruments is compared with a current threshold. The power ratio supplied from the power source to the electrosurgical instrument is compared with a power ratio threshold. A timer is started to measure the elapsed time based on the current being at or above the current threshold and the absolute value of the power ratio being below the power ratio threshold. as well as An action is performed based on the elapsed time reaching a time threshold.

16. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, wherein, The action includes providing an alarm on the display.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein, The action includes providing an auditory alarm via a speaker.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 15, wherein, The action includes stopping the supply of power from the power source to the electrosurgical instrument.

19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, further storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: When the timer measures the elapsed time, it detects that the current has dropped below the current threshold; and The timer is reset based on the current dropping below the current threshold.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, further storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: When the timer measures the elapsed time, it detects that the power ratio supplied to the electrosurgical instrument has increased above the power ratio threshold; and The timer is reset based on the power ratio increasing to above the power ratio threshold.

Images