Surgical instrument with effector

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument (1), in particular an HF instrument of the forceps structure type or the handle structure type, having an effect device (11) or an effect device region, which has two legs (13) which are movable relative to one another, wherein at least one leg is divided into a distal leg section (15) which is provided for occupation by at least one electrode and a proximal leg section (17) which is free of electrodes or is not provided for occupation by at least one electrode, in the region of which proximal leg section the two legs (13) have a coupling site (5) at which they are coupled to one another in a manner movable relative to one another. The proximal leg section (17) is at least partially composed of a substantially material (19) which is particularly microporous and / or is constructed with or provided with at least partially open, preferably macroporous cavities outside the coupling site (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to surgical instruments, particularly medical high-frequency surgical instruments (HF instruments), which are preferably constructed in the form of bipolar vascular sealing devices and have effectors including two legs that can move relative to each other. Background Technology

[0002] In high-frequency surgery (also known as HF surgery), a high-frequency alternating current is directed through the human body or body parts to selectively brittle (coagulate) or cut (electrosurgically) tissue through the resulting heat. The damaged tissue is then absorbed by the surrounding healthy tissue. A significant advantage over traditional cutting techniques using a scalpel is that bleeding can be stopped in a coagulating sense by sealing the affected blood vessels during the cutting process.

[0003] Currently, monopolar HF technology is most commonly used in HF surgery. Here, one pole of the HF voltage source is connected to the patient via a corresponding electrode with the largest possible surface area, such as through contacts on the operating table where the patient is located, through contact arm or foot straps, or through adhesive electrodes. This corresponding electrode is usually referred to as the neutral electrode. The other pole is connected to a surgical instrument, and this surgical instrument forms what is called the active electrode. Current flows from the active electrode to the neutral electrode via a path of least resistance. The current density is highest immediately adjacent to the active electrode, where the thermal effect is strongest. The current density decreases with the square of the distance. The neutral electrode should be well-connected to the body with the largest possible surface area to keep the current density within the body low and prevent burns. Due to the large surface area, the skin on the neutral electrode will not be significantly heated. Strict safety measures are applied when installing the neutral electrode. Proper placement and good contact of the neutral electrode (depending on the surgical area) are crucial to prevent combustion.

[0004] In bipolar HF technology, unlike monopolar technology, current flows through a small portion of the body where a surgical effect (cutting or coagulation) is desired. Two metal electrodes, insulated from each other, are directed directly to the surgical site. These electrodes are housed in the legs of the HF instrument's effector, and an HF voltage is applied between them. The circuit closes through the tissue located between them. A thermal effect occurs in the tissue between the metal electrodes.

[0005] In such HF devices, especially bipolar sealed devices, the effector is preferably manufactured / constructed in a sandwich structure. The effector consists of, or has, these components: a thin metal electrode serving as a contact surface for contact with tissue; a spacer made of plastic providing electrical and thermal insulation; and a load-bearing member configured to ensure force delivery and containing a closing mechanism. The load-bearing member imparts the necessary stability and rigidity to the effector.

[0006] However, the manufacturing process for effects pedals with this sandwich structure is cumbersome and costly. The accumulation of manufacturing tolerances due to the different components (which must be interconnected) reduces the fit and therefore the quality of the effects pedal or HF device.

[0007] One way to eliminate these drawbacks is to design / construct the metal electrodes or the legs of the effects unit as solid components.

[0008] However, this solid metal electrode has a high thermal mass, which, especially when the effector is large, causes most of the energy delivered to the metal electrode through the HF generator to flow into the tissue seal instead of into the solid metal electrode for heating.

[0009] Another drawback of this solid metal electrode is that the dynamics of temperature change are severely limited. That is, the heating and cooling processes require a significant amount of time, which prolongs the duration of the procedure. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Therefore, the objective of this disclosure is to eliminate or at least reduce the disadvantages of the prior art. Specifically, the objective of this disclosure is to provide a surgical instrument in which temperature control of the electrode carrier / electrode section of one or more electrodes or effectors is improved, and in particular, the dynamics of temperature changes are improved.

[0011] This task is accomplished by the surgical instrument according to independent claim 1. Advantageous improvements are disclosed in the dependent claims and / or described below.

[0012] Specifically, this task is accomplished using surgical instruments, particularly forceps-type or handle-type HF instruments (high-frequency instruments), having an effector or effector region with two legs movable relative to each other. At least one leg is divided into a distal leg segment (hereinafter referred to as an electrode for simplicity) intended for use by at least one electrode, and a proximal leg segment (hereinafter referred to as a jaw portion for simplicity) without an electrode or not intended for use by at least one electrode. In the region of the proximal leg segment, the two legs have a coupling point at which they are movably coupled relative to each other. The proximal leg segment of at least one leg, i.e., the jaw portion, is at least partially composed of a porous base material (micropores) and / or (at least) has at least partially open cavities (macropores) constructed or provided outside the coupling point. The term "micropore" should be understood as a self-constructed or constructed cavity in the base material, such as those present or exhibiting material properties in ceramic materials, sponges, foams, sintered materials, and similar materials. The term "macropore" should be understood as a cavity that is introduced into a base material that is already microporous where necessary, in a quasi-structural (designed) manner, such as through rapid prototyping methods, through perforation, drilling, etc., creating a grid-like structure, or through arbitrary structures such as agitation, stirring, ventilation, temperature control, etc. It should be noted that micropores and macropores do not necessarily differ in size; however, micropores are generally smaller and / or have different shapes than macropores.

[0013] In other words, the task is solved by surgical instruments, especially HF instruments (high-frequency instruments), having an effector or effector region with two legs, the two legs being movable relative to each other (manually) between an open state (release or containment state) and a closed state (clamping, fixing, or grasping state) of the surgical instrument, wherein at least one leg has at least one electrode or an electrode section having multiple electrodes for contacting tissue and a jaw portion or jaw portion section arranged proximal to at least one electrode or electrode section (which does not have one or more electrodes and is not configured for contacting tissue). The (electrodeless / electrode-free) jaw portion having at least one leg is a porous structure (or composed of a porous structure).

[0014] In other words, the task is solved by a surgical instrument, which is either a handle-type (in which case the legs of the effector are arranged on the distal end section of the handle and coupled to a handle on the proximal end section of the handle via an actuating lever within the handle) or a scissor-type or forceps-type (in which case each leg of the effector is preferably integrally connected to a branch connected proximally, the branch forming or having a handle), the surgical instrument having a distally mouth-like effector. The effector has two legs or is composed of two legs that can move relative to each other, preferably in a scissor-like manner, in the proximal leg section (proximal jaw portion), via couplings, such as joints or hinges, wherein this proximal leg section (proximal jaw portion) of one leg forms a so-called closing component. The closing component is understood as a type of (closed) box into which one leg is formed and into which the proximal leg section (proximal jaw portion) of the other leg, possibly plate-shaped, is relatively movably, preferably relatively pivotally, inserted.

[0015] Surgical instruments may be, for example, bipolar HF instruments of the scissor or forceps type or laparoscopic type. The surgical instrument includes at least one, preferably two, contact electrodes, which are respectively constructed on a leg, particularly on a distal leg segment, or may be coupled to a corresponding leg, particularly a corresponding distal leg segment. The contact electrodes are preferably at least partially constructed of metal or coated with metal. Embodiments with multiple contact electrodes are also conceivable, distributed on the leg, particularly the distal leg segment. The contact electrodes preferably include at least one flat segment configured as a contact surface and facing the central / internal space of the effector. Preferably, at least the contact surface of the contact electrode is constructed of metal or coated with metal.

[0016] A jaw portion is constructed, flanged, or connected to the proximal end section of the electrode. The jaw portion may be coupled to, or can be coupled to, or connected to, the (proximal) branch. The jaw portion has or is made of a porous base material and / or has a porous structure. That is, at least the proximal leg section of the aforementioned box-shaped structure is at least partially porous.

[0017] Porosity can be understood as the jaw portion having, at least locally, cavities optionally uniformly constructed over the volume or volume segments of the jaw portion. In other words, the jaw portion can be constructed with multiple three-dimensionally arranged cavities, which may be connected to each other if necessary and / or may be partially open to the outside if necessary. The three-dimensionally arranged cavities can here be arranged and / or constructed at least segmentally, preferably regularly.

[0018] Due to the typically at least locally high porosity (as defined above) of the jaw portion, and especially due to the at least locally porous base material of the jaw portion, the thermally related mass of the jaw portion can be reduced (to a large extent), preferably with no (or only a small) loss of stiffness or strength. Furthermore, the surface area of ​​the jaw portion (especially due to its openness) can be significantly enlarged, allowing thermal energy from the jaw portion, or thermal energy introduced / introduced into / input into the jaw portion by the electrodes, to be discharged / exported into the medium surrounding the jaw portion (ambient air, patient fluids, etc.).

[0019] It should also be noted that preferably only the proximal leg segment connected to or occupied by the electrode on the distal leg region is porous or has a porous region (as defined above), while all other regions, especially the distal leg segment (electrode) and the branches connected more preferably proximal to the proximal leg segment (jaw portion), are not (or less) porous.

[0020] In one respect, the electrode may have a substantially constant cross-sectional area in a first extension direction from the distal to the proximal side.

[0021] In other words, the electrode can extend substantially in a first extension direction. The first extension direction is the direction from the distal end of the jaw-shaped effect unit to the proximal end of the effect unit. The cross-section is a plane oriented / spread substantially orthogonal to the extension direction of the electrode. The cross-section of the electrode can be substantially constant along its extension in the first extension direction. In other words, the cross-section along the electrode can be uniform, i.e., without large jumps.

[0022] By using a constant cross-section of the electrode, uniform heating can be achieved along its longitudinal extension. This can also have a positive impact on the sealing quality of surgical instruments, thereby generally achieving or having achieved a more uniform and better seal, i.e., a more uniform and better sealing section.

[0023] On the other hand, the electrode may have at least one elongated hole extending in a first extending direction, wherein the width of the elongated hole varies along the extension of the elongated hole.

[0024] In other words, the electrode may have at least one elongated hole, preferably multiple elongated holes. The at least one elongated hole can be constructed in a support section opposite to the contact surface of the electrode. The support section can be substantially T-shaped with the contact surface and reinforce the contact surface or the electrode. The width of the elongated hole, i.e., the dimension of the elongated hole in the direction orthogonal to the contact surface, can vary from distal to proximal along the longitudinal direction of the electrode.

[0025] Preferably, the width of the elongated hole can increase from the distal side to the proximal side.

[0026] When more than one elongated hole is constructed in the electrode, the width of each elongated hole can increase from the distal to the proximal side along the extension of the electrode. In other words, the overall width of the elongated hole can increase from the distal to the proximal side along the extension of the electrode.

[0027] Elongated holes can compensate for the widening of the electrode's contact surface from the distal to the proximal side. In other words, elongated holes can achieve / ensure a uniform / constant cross-section of the electrode.

[0028] It should be noted that when observing the cross-section, the region with at least one elongated hole can be considered in particular, and the intermediate region, which can be constructed between two longitudinally adjacent elongated holes and occupy a significantly smaller share of the electrode extension, can be largely disregarded.

[0029] On the other hand, a support can be constructed in the at least one intermediate region.

[0030] In other words, a support can be constructed in the intermediate region between the two elongated holes, connecting the back side of the electrode-facing support section to the support section. The support can be a solid rib, a beveled column, or other suitable geometry.

[0031] By constructing supports, the electrode can be stabilized and its torsional stiffness can be increased. Supports also allow for a further reduction in the electrode's mass without compromising its strength or stiffness.

[0032] On the other hand, the insulating cover can be configured to at least segmentally surround the electrode, wherein the insulating cover can be configured with spacer elements to form or define at least one, preferably multiple, air chambers between the insulating cover and the electrode.

[0033] In other words, the insulating cover can be configured to encapsulate and insulate the electrode, and in particular the support section of the electrode. The insulating cover may include spacer elements that abut against the electrode and position the body of the insulating cover apart from the electrode to create one or more air chambers between the insulating cover and the electrode.

[0034] Air is an excellent insulator, allowing for effective insulation of the electrodes from the surrounding environment by constructing at least one air chamber between the insulating cover and the electrodes. This enables rapid heating of the electrodes or their contact surfaces and reduces energy loss during heating. Furthermore, the insulating cover reduces the risk of burns to users of surgical instruments on the heated electrodes.

[0035] On the other hand, at least one locking hook is constructed on a first end section preferably distal to the insulating cover and a snap-fit ​​edge is constructed on a second end section preferably proximal to the insulating cover, so as to be engaged into the electrode and to secure the insulating cover to the electrode.

[0036] In other words, the insulating cover can be constructed with locking and snap-fit ​​mechanisms to secure it to the electrode without tools, preferably in a form-locking manner. Preferably, the locking hooks and / or the snap-fit ​​edges of the insulating cover can be form-lockingly fitted into one or more elongated holes.

[0037] A hook can be constructed at the tip of the electrode, i.e. at the distal end, to accommodate the locking hook of the insulating cover.

[0038] The locking and latching mechanisms can non-detachably connect the insulating cover and the electrode to each other. In an alternative embodiment, the locking and latching mechanisms can be configured to form a detachable connection between the electrode and the insulating cover.

[0039] This construction or connection of electrodes and insulating covers can reduce the cost of installing the device.

[0040] On the other hand, the porous base material can be or may include a grid structure.

[0041] In other words, the porous base material of the jaw portion can be constructed as a grid structure or include a grid structure. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that only sections of the jaw portion are constructed of a grid structure.

[0042] In other words, porous basic materials can be constructed from three-dimensionally periodically arranged grid structures and / or unit structures. Common grid units are body-centered cubic units, face-centered cubic units, simple cubic units, or space trusses. Other possible grid types / grids are component-map grids, volumetric grids, 3D conformal grids, unit-map grids, quadrilateral grids, or Gnd grids.

[0043] This grid structure can be manufactured using additive methods with varying porosities, i.e., varying distances between the individual grid bars. The grid can absorb forces in different spatial directions, thus helping to reinforce the jaws or legs without significantly increasing mass. The type of grid can be adapted / selected based on the type and size of the legs. It is also conceivable that the type and construction of the grid can be adapted / selected based on the location on the metal electrodes or the load on the jaws.

[0044] Furthermore, the grid structure allows for a simple increase / expansion of the surface area used for heat transfer from the jaws to the surrounding environment without increasing the structural space requirements of the jaws.

[0045] On the other hand, the grid structure can be a three-dimensional intersecting grid structure.

[0046] In other words, a grid structure can be a three-dimensional extended grid structure. Furthermore, a three-dimensional grid structure can be an intersecting grid structure. An intersecting grid structure should be understood as a grid structure in which the bars meet or intersect at the center point of the grid standard unit.

[0047] In other words, a grid standard unit can be constructed such that starting from each corner of the grid standard unit, the grid bars extend toward the center point of the grid standard unit and these grid bars intersect and / or meet at the center point of the grid standard unit.

[0048] This structural design of the grid structure can further improve its surface area. Furthermore, it can maximize the load-bearing capacity and torsional stiffness of the grid structure without significantly increasing its mass.

[0049] On the other hand, the porosity or mesh width or grid width of the porous base material, preferably the porous base material, can vary along the extension of the jaw portion, preferably in the first extension direction.

[0050] In other words, the porous base material can vary in terms of properties, especially in terms of the density of the porous base material or in terms of the mesh width or grid width in the extension direction of the jaw portion.

[0051] In other words, the properties of a porous base material can differ in different sections or locations of the jaw portion.

[0052] This construction scheme using porous base materials allows for the design of the jaw portion in a load-optimized and thermally optimized manner. In other words, this construction scheme allows for the consideration of forces acting on the jaw portion while reducing material and increasing surface area.

[0053] On the other hand, the porosity or mesh width of a porous base material can increase stepwise, linearly, or dynamically along the direction from the distal to the proximal side.

[0054] In other words, the density of a porous base material can be reduced starting from the electrode and extending along the jaw region. This density reduction can be stepwise or linear.

[0055] This construction scheme using porous base materials enables excellent heat dissipation from the electrodes. The farther heat energy is transferred / conducted away from the electrodes, the coarser the mesh of the porous base material can be constructed to improve heat exchange with the surrounding environment.

[0056] On the other hand, the porosity or mesh width in the force flow path / load section / force transmission section of the jaw portion may be reduced.

[0057] In other words, the density of the porous base material in the jaw section can be increased along the force flow path of the jaw section.

[0058] In other words, the load section of the jaw portion connecting the electrode and the branch can be configured to have increased density, i.e., reduced mesh width or porosity. Alternatively, an embodiment can be conceived in which the load section is configured to be solid.

[0059] With this construction scheme using porous base materials, the jaw section can be further optimized for load and heat without significantly improving the quality of the jaw section.

[0060] On the other hand, porous basic materials can be constructed into sponge structures or biomimetic structures. Biomimetic structures should be understood as structures that are oriented according to the geometry of nature or biology.

[0061] In other words, porous basic materials can be constructed, for example, into honeycomb structures or other load-oriented geometries known from nature.

[0062] In other words, the porosity of the porous structure can be configured differently at different locations within the jaws / load-oriented sections. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the dimensions of the grid structure or the rod structures within the grid structure can be varied or designed differently depending on the load conditions / location within the jaws. For example, a truss structure conforming to the load can be constructed from the rod structures.

[0063] On the other hand, the electrodes and jaws can be thermally conductively and preferably integrally constructed of the same material.

[0064] In other words, the electrodes and jaws can be connected to each other to ensure the conduction / dissipation of heat from the electrodes to the jaws. Preferably, the electrodes and jaws can be constructed integrally, especially as a single material.

[0065] In other words, the electrodes and jaws can be constructed as a single unit. A single unit means that it consists of a unified, indivisible unit.

[0066] In other words, the legs can be constructed as a single piece of material. That is to say, at least the contact surfaces, support sections, and jaws can be constructed integrally with the porous base material.

[0067] High component rigidity can be achieved through a monolithic construction. Furthermore, the manufacturing of the legs, and especially the jaws, can be simplified by eliminating the need for joining various components and elements. Additionally, the reduction in components prevents the accumulation of manufacturing tolerances, which improves manufacturing accuracy and thus the quality of HF instruments' effects.

[0068] On the other hand, at least the electrodes and jaws can be preferably constructed of metal.

[0069] In other words, at least the porous base material can be an additively manufactured structure. Additive manufacturing is a manufacturing method that preferably constructs the structure by coating the material using a layered construction method, and thus differs from abrasive manufacturing methods in which the material is removed.

[0070] In other words, the porous base material can be a 3D printed structure, which can be constructed, for example, by selective laser melting, selective electron beam melting, laser welding, wire arc / plasma arc energy deposition, or electron beam wire deposition.

[0071] On the other hand, the legs may be coated or injection molded with a coating at least in sections.

[0072] In other words, the entire jaw can be coated except for the branch or branch interface or branch coupling section and the electrode or electrode contact surface.

[0073] The coating is primarily used for electrical insulation. The coating also has a significant impact on thermal insulation.

[0074] On the other hand, the coating can be constructed from plastic materials in a thermally and / or electrically insulating manner, preferably from polyetheretherketone, polyketone, rayon, etc.

[0075] In other words, the coating has good thermal insulation properties.

[0076] In summary, to specifically control heat transfer, the heat transfer from the electrode to the insulating cover should be as low as possible. Since the contact area between the electrode and the insulating cover is as small as possible, the thermal resistance increases. This can be further enhanced if the thickness of the insulating cover is increased.

[0077] Furthermore, heat transfer from the insulating cover to the surrounding environment surrounding the electrodes is optimized to the greatest extent possible. Thermal resistance is reduced due to the largest possible heat transfer area between the insulator and its surroundings.

[0078] Furthermore, heat transfer from the electrodes to the jaws should be as efficient as possible. The better the heat transfer from the electrodes to the jaws, i.e., from distal to proximal, the faster excess heat from the critical areas of the HF instrument can be transferred to the non-critical areas. This can be achieved by increasing the heat transfer area between the electrodes and the jaws.

[0079] Furthermore, heat transfer from the jaw portion to the coating / insulation of the jaw portion is optimized. Data stored in the jaw portion is then transferred to the insulation of the jaw portion. In this case, the thermal resistance can be reduced because the contact area between the jaw portion and the coating / insulation is maximized.

[0080] Furthermore, heat transfer from the insulation (near side) to the surrounding environment should be as good as possible. The thin insulation / coating at the jaws should release heat to the surrounding environment with the largest possible surface area.

[0081] Finally, it should be noted that the aforementioned aspects can be claimed individually or in any combination thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0082] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the bipolar HF device according to this disclosure;

[0083] Figure 2 The illustration is based on the leg of the HF device disclosed herein;

[0084] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view of the electrodes on the leg;

[0085] Figure 4 This is an enlarged view of the jaw portion of an uncoated bipolar HF instrument.

[0086] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the porous grid structure of the jaws of an effects pedal.

[0087] Figure 6 This is an illustration of the jaw portion in the first embodiment;

[0088] Figure 7 This is an illustration of the leg with jaws in the second embodiment;

[0089] Figure 8 This is an illustration of the jaw portion in the third embodiment;

[0090] Figure 9 This is an illustration of a leg with a jaw portion in the fourth embodiment;

[0091] Figure 10 This is an illustration of a leg with a jaw portion in the fifth embodiment;

[0092] Figure 11 This is an illustration of the insulating cover in the first embodiment;

[0093] Figure 12 This is an illustration of an insulating cover in the first embodiment that is mounted on the electrode;

[0094] Figure 13 This is an illustration of an insulating cover in a second embodiment, mounted on the electrode; and

[0095] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the process of installing the insulating cover on the electrode. Detailed Implementation

[0096] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0097] Figure 1 A bipolar HF device 1 according to this disclosure is shown. The embodiment of HF device 1 shown here is constructed in a scissor-type configuration. Of course, other configuration types, such as laparoscopic configuration types, are also possible.

[0098] The HF device 1 comprises two scissor elements 3 that are movable relative to each other, and these scissor elements are movably connected to each other in a hinge 5 or a closing member. A branch 7 extends proximally from the hinge 5 in / on each scissor element 3. A ring 9 is constructed on the proximal end section of each branch 7. The two rings 9 of the two branches 7 can be gripped by the user of the HF device 1, and the scissor elements of the HF device 1 can be moved relative to each other by manipulating the rings 9.

[0099] Effector 11 on the jaw side extends distally from hinge 5. Effector 11 forms the actual working section of HF instrument 1.

[0100] Figure 2 The leg 13 of the HF device 1 is shown. Electrodes 15 are constructed on the distal end section of the leg 13. Electrodes 15 form a basic functional component of the effector 11 of the HF device and will be discussed later according to… Figure 3 A more detailed explanation follows. Near electrode 15, a jaw portion 17 is integrally or monolithically attached to the material. The jaw portion 17 has a porous base material 19 or is composed of such a base material. A circular receiving portion 21 is constructed within the porous structure 19 to accommodate a bolt, pin, or hinge element of hinge 5. The jaw portion 17 will be referred to later. Figures 4 to 10 A more detailed explanation.

[0101] A branch receiving portion 23 is connected to the proximal side of the jaw portion 17. The branch receiving portion 23 is provided and configured to be fixed to the branch 7. Alternatively, the branch receiving portion 23 can be omitted and the branch 7 can be directly connected to the jaw portion 17. In the embodiment shown here, the branch receiving portion 23 is integrally constructed with the electrode 15 and the jaw portion 17. It is also conceivable that the branch receiving portion is detachably / reversibly connected to the jaw portion 17.

[0102] Figure 3Electrode 15 is shown in a perspective view. Electrode 15 has a planar contact surface 25 configured to contact and seal the tissue to be treated. Contact surface 25 faces the internal space of effector 11 from its front side 27. On the back side of contact surface 25, support section 29 extends substantially perpendicularly from contact surface 25. Contact surface 25 and support section 29 form a T-shaped carrier shape. In other words, the cross-section of electrode 15 is substantially T-shaped when viewed in the longitudinal direction L of electrode 15. Along the longitudinal direction L of electrode 15, i.e., in its extension from distal to proximal, an elongated hole 31 is constructed in support section 29. Elongated hole 31 has an extension in the longitudinal direction L and an extension in the width direction B. The width direction is oriented orthogonal to contact surface 25 and orthogonal to longitudinal direction L. The extension of elongated hole 31 in the width direction, i.e., the width of elongated hole 31, continuously increases from distal to proximal. Simultaneously, the extension of the contact surface 25 in the depth direction T increases from the distal to the proximal side. The depth direction T is understood as a direction orthogonal to the width direction B and orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The extension of the elongated hole 31 in the width direction B and the extension of the contact surface 25 in the depth direction are coordinated in such a way that the cross-section of the electrode in the plane opened by the width direction B and the depth direction T remains substantially constant along the longitudinal direction L of the electrode. Some embodiments are also conceivable in which the width of the elongated hole 31 varies stepwise from the distal to the proximal side, preferably increasing.

[0103] A support post 33 is constructed between the elongated holes 31 to connect the contact surface 25 and the support section 29. The support post 33 is oriented at approximately a 45° angle relative to the contact surface 25 and relative to the support section 29. The support post 33 is provided and constructed to increase the stiffness of the electrode 15, and especially its torsional stiffness. As an alternative to the support post 33, ribs, etc., are conceivable. A hook 35 is constructed on the distal tip of the electrode 15, which will be referred to later. Figure 14 To describe in more detail.

[0104] Figure 4 The leg 13 is shown in the partially installed state of the effect unit 11. For illustration purposes, illustrations of any type of coating or cover are omitted.

[0105] The jaw portion 17 surrounds the mating member 37 in a U-shape, which belongs to another scissor element 3. The mating member 37 includes a second electrode 39 and is connected to a second branch in the branch 7. The jaw portion 17 has two parallel jaw portion walls 41 and a jaw portion back 43 connecting the jaw portion partition 41. Not only the jaw portion walls 41 but also the jaw portion back 43 are constructed with a porous structure 19. In other words, the jaw portion walls 41 and the jaw portion back 43 are substantially constructed of a porous structure 19.

[0106] Figure 5A porous base material 19 is shown in the embodiment. The porous base material 19 forms a three-dimensional intersecting grid. In other words, the porous base material 19 is constructed from periodically arranged grid units 45. Each grid unit 45 includes eight bars 47, wherein each bar 47 extends from a corner of the grid unit 45 to the center point 49 of the grid unit. In other words, Figure 5 The grid structure of the porous basic material 19 shown is a body-centered cubic grid structure.

[0107] The porous base material 19 forms the cooling structure of the jaw portion 17 and thus forms the cooling structure of the effector 11.

[0108] Of course, other grid geometries / grid structures can also be used, such as face-centered cubic grid structures, in which the grid bars 47 are arranged along the edges of the grid units 45.

[0109] Figure 6 The jaw portion 17 in the first embodiment is shown. In the first embodiment, the grid unit size is small. In other words, the grid structure is a dense / fine-mesh grid structure. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the jaw portion 17 has high density and low porosity. In the first embodiment, the grid unit size is substantially constant along the extension of the jaw portion 17.

[0110] Figure 7 The leg 13 with jaw portion 17 is shown in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the grid cell size is a medium-sized grid cell. In other words, the grid structure in the second embodiment is a medium-density grid structure. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the porosity of the jaw portion 17 is a medium porosity. In the second embodiment, the grid cell size is substantially constant along the extension of the jaw portion 17.

[0111] Figure 8 The jaw portion 17 in the third embodiment is shown. In the third embodiment, the grid unit size is a large grid unit size. In other words, in the third embodiment, the grid structure is a coarse / large mesh grid structure. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the jaw portion 17 has a low density and high porosity. In the third embodiment, the grid unit size is substantially constant along the extension of the jaw portion 17.

[0112] The thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and heat dissipation characteristics of leg 13 can be set by adjusting the size of the grille unit.

[0113] Figure 9The leg 13 with jaw portion 17 is shown in the fourth embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the grid structure is a stepped grid structure. In other words, the grid structure is denser at the distal end of the jaw portion 17 than at the proximal end of the jaw portion 17. In the fourth embodiment shown here, the density of the jaw portion 17 varies in three stages. It is also conceivable that the density of the jaw portion 17 decreases linearly, i.e. dynamically, from the distal end to the proximal end along the longitudinal direction L of the jaw portion 17.

[0114] In addition, some implementations can be envisioned in which the density varies in two, four, five or more stages along the longitudinal extension.

[0115] In the fourth embodiment, the back 43 of the jaw portion is constructed to be solid. It is also conceivable that an embodiment in which a stepped or linear variation in the density of the grid structure is also constructed on the back 43 of the jaw portion. This configuration of the jaw portion 17 enables rapid heat dissipation from the electrode 15 while simultaneously achieving high heat exchange efficiency with the surrounding environment of the leg 13 having the jaw portion 17.

[0116] Figure 10 The leg 13 with jaw portion 17 is shown in the fifth embodiment. In the fifth embodiment of jaw portion 17, a denser grid structure is constructed in jaw portion 17 along the force flow line 51. In other words, a portion of the jaw portion wall 41 connecting the electrode connector 53 to the receiving portion 21 and the branch receiving portion 23 is constructed with a grid structure having a higher density than the main portion of the jaw portion wall 41. This construction scheme improves the overall stability of the effect unit 11 because areas relevant to stability are reinforced by material buildup, while areas unrelated to force transmission are used for heat dissipation through a coarser grid.

[0117] Figure 11 An insulating cover 55 is shown. The insulating cover is provided and configured to be fixed to the electrode 15. A wall-shaped spacer element 57 is constructed on the section of the insulating cover 55 facing the electrode 15 in the installed state. The spacer element 57 is provided and configured to form an air chamber 59 between the insulating cover 55 and the electrode 15. A locking hook 61 is constructed on the distal end section of the insulating cover 55. The locking hook 61 is provided and configured to be form-fitted into the hook 35 of the electrode (see...). Figure 14 A snap-fit ​​edge 63 is constructed on the near-end section of the insulating cover 55, and an elongated hole 31 is fitted into the snap-fit ​​edge.

[0118] Figure 12 Showing the installed state Figure 11The insulating cover 55 is located in the electrode 15. An air gap 65 is formed between the insulating cover 55 and the electrode 15. In other words, the insulating cover 55 is not completely flush with the electrode 15 when it is installed.

[0119] Figure 13 An alternative embodiment of the insulating cover 55 is shown. In this alternative embodiment, the insulating cover 55 is flush against the electrode 15 in the installed state. In other words, in this alternative embodiment of the insulating cover 55, no air gap is formed between the insulating cover 55 and the electrode 15.

[0120] Then, with the help of Figure 14 The installation process of the insulating cover 55 on the electrode 15 is described. Figure 14 For better illustration, the insulating cover 55 is shown in a half-sectional view.

[0121] In the first step, the locking hook 61 of the insulating cover 55 is suspended in the hook 35 of the electrode 15. For this purpose, the insulating cover 55 is pushed onto the electrode 15 along the longitudinal direction L. In the second step, the snap-fit ​​edge 63 engages with the elongated hole 31. For this purpose, the insulating cover 55 is pushed onto the electrode 15 in the width direction B or in the negative width direction. This snap-fit ​​connection can be disassembled without damage in the reverse order of the steps. In an alternative embodiment, the snap-fit ​​connection can also be configured as a non-removable (cannot be disassembled without damage) connection.

[0122] Electrode 15 and jaw portion 17 can be constructed monolithically, that is, electrode 15, jaw portion 17 and optional branch receiving portion can be integrally manufactured using a generative manufacturing method.

[0123] List of reference numerals

[0124] 1 HF equipment

[0125] 3. Scissor-type components

[0126] 5. Hinges

[0127] 7 branches

[0128] 9 rings

[0129] 11 Effects

[0130] 13 legs

[0131] 15 electrodes / distal leg segment

[0132] 17. Jaw section / proximal leg area

[0133] 19. Porous basic materials / porous structures / grid structures

[0134] 21. Reception Department

[0135] 23 Branch Reception Section

[0136] 25 Contact surface

[0137] 27 Front

[0138] 29 Support Sections

[0139] 31 long holes

[0140] 33 pillars

[0141] 35 hooks

[0142] 37. Mating parts

[0143] 39. Matching Electrode

[0144] 41. Jaw section wall

[0145] 43. Back of the jaws

[0146] 45 grille units

[0147] 47 slats

[0148] 49. Center point

[0149] 51 Force Streamlines

[0150] 53 Electrode connectors

[0151] 55 Insulating Cover

[0152] 57 Spacer elements

[0153] 59 air chambers

[0154] 61 Locking Hook

[0155] 63. Buckle edge

[0156] L (vertical direction)

[0157] B Width direction

[0158] T represents the depth direction.

Claims

1. A surgical instrument (1), particularly a forceps-type or handle-type HF instrument, having an effector (11) or effector region having two legs (13) movable relative to each other, wherein at least one leg is divided into a distal leg segment (15) provided for use by at least one electrode and a proximal leg segment (17) without an electrode or not provided for use by at least one electrode, wherein in the region of the proximal leg segment, the two legs (13) have a coupling portion (5) at which the two legs are movable relative to each other. Its features are, The proximal leg section (17) is at least partially composed of a porous basic material (19), particularly microporous, and / or is constructed with or provided with a cavity that is at least partially open, preferably macroporous, outside the coupling portion (5).

2. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The distal leg segment (15) has a substantially constant cross-section in a first extending direction (L) from the distal to the proximal side, particularly in the longitudinal extending direction of the distal leg segment (15).

3. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distal leg segment (15) has at least one elongated hole (31) extending in the first extending direction (L), wherein the width of the elongated hole (31) in the width direction (B) orthogonal to the first extending direction (L) varies with the extension of the elongated hole (31).

4. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, An insulating cover (55) is configured to at least segmentally surround the distal leg segment (15), wherein the insulating cover (55) is configured with a spacer element (57) to form at least one air chamber (59) between the insulating cover (55) and the distal leg segment (15).

5. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least one locking hook (61) is constructed on a first end section preferably distal to the insulating cover (55), and a snap-fit ​​edge (63) is constructed on a second end section preferably proximal to the insulating cover (55) to engage with the distal leg section (15) and secure the insulating cover (55) to the distal leg section (15).

6. The surgical instrument (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The porous basic material (19) is a grid structure or has a grid structure.

7. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The grid structure is a three-dimensional intersecting grid structure.

8. The surgical instrument (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The porosity or mesh width of the porous base material (19) preferably varies along the extension of the proximal leg section (17) in the first extension direction (L).

9. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The porosity or mesh width of the porous base material (19) increases stepwise or linearly from the far side to the near side.

10. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The porosity or mesh width is reduced in the force flow path (51) of the proximal leg section (17).

11. The surgical instrument (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The distal leg section (15) and the proximal leg section (17) are thermally conductive and preferably integrally constructed with each other.

12. The surgical instrument (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, At least the distal leg segment (15) and the proximal leg segment (17) are additively, preferably, constructed of metal.

13. The surgical instrument (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The leg (13) is at least sectionally coated or injection molded.

14. The surgical instrument (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The coating is made of plastic, preferably polyetheretherketone, polyketone, or ethers, in a thermally and / or electrically insulating manner.

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