Interface for an electrosurgical instrument and surgical system

Abstract

Interface (40) for receiving an electrosurgical instrument (60) on a handling device (18), which comprises: - a handling interface (80) at a distal end (76) of an instrument holder (42) of a handling device (18), - at least one line interface (82) adjacent to the handling interface (80) for an electrosurgical line (50) which can be fixed in a receptacle (90) at the distal end (76) of the instrument holder (42), wherein the line interface (82) and the handling interface (80) are arranged for joint movement in a defined relative position to each other on the instrument holder (42), - a sterilizable adapter piece (110) which can be plugged onto the distal end (76) of the instrument holder (42) and is designed to receive a cover (134) which extends proximally and encloses the instrument holder (42) and the electrosurgical line (50) at least in sections, wherein the sterilizable adapter piece (110) has a first adapter interface (120) which can be coupled to the handling interface (80) and a second adapter interface (122) which can be coupled to the line interface (82), and wherein the sterilizable adapter piece (110) closes off the line interface (82) distally in a manner that is at least impermeable to germs.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an interface for receiving an electrosurgical instrument on a handling device and to a surgical system having a medical handling device and such an interface formed between the handling device and an instrument received on the instrument holder of the handling device.

[0002] US 2021 / 0 378 773 A1 discloses a sterile interface assembly that interacts with a surgical instrument and comprises an adapter, a surgical drape, and a clamp. The adapter has a housing with a first end portion and a second end portion, inlets at the first end portion of the housing, outlets at the second end portion of the housing, connectors that couple each of the inlets to a corresponding one of the outlets, and a seal located within the housing to create a fluid-tight connection. The surgical drape forms a sheath with a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion is attached to the outside of the adapter housing. The clamp connects the distal end portion of the surgical drape to a shaft.

[0003] From US 2020 / 0 069 297 A1 an adapter for detachably connecting a surgical instrument to a robot arm of a robot-assisted surgical system is known, wherein an engagement element preloaded by a spring is provided, which is intended to facilitate handling during connection and detachment.

[0004] From WO 2022 / 175838 A1, a medical instrument drive assembly is known which comprises a base, at least one drive output for driving an instrument, a movable platform for guiding the instrument to the drive output, and a locking mechanism for locking the movable platform.

[0005] Electrosurgical instruments are well known and include, for example, so-called high-frequency instruments (HF instruments). HF instruments can be designed, for example, as monopolar or bipolar instruments. With HF instruments, high-frequency alternating current is passed through the human body to treat the tissue there. The instruments themselves can be designed in different ways. For example, instruments can be designed as forceps, scalpels, suction tubes, and electrode holders of various shapes. HF instruments can be designed, for example, for coagulation or cauterization.

[0006] Medical surgical systems with handling devices typically designed as surgical robots are also generally known. For example, US 2016 / 0361129 A1 discloses a surgical robot for minimally invasive applications. The surgical robot can be controlled via a console. The surgeon's direct presence with the patient is not necessarily required. Such applications can also be referred to as telemedicine applications.

[0007] Components and elements of a surgical system that may extend into the surgical area must generally be kept sterile. However, due to the dimensions and complexity of its structure, complete sterilization of the surgical robot would be extremely costly. One approach is to cover the affected components and elements of a surgical system with a sterile coating. This allows for a (functional and spatial) separation between a non-sterile robot side and a sterile surgical side.

[0008] The surgical robot known from US 2016 / 0361129 A1 has several articulated arms, each of which can carry an instrument at its distal end. To maintain sterility in the surgical area, a cover is provided that can be slipped over the arms. This reduces the effort required for the necessary sterilization of the surgical robot's arms. At the distal end of each arm, an instrument is accommodated, which can be sterilized as such. A pocket made of a plastic material is provided between the instrument and the sterile cover. This pocket sits on the distal end and provides a connection to the sterile cover. The pocket thus protects an instrument interface at the distal end of the arm.

[0009] However, it has been shown that the effort required to provide a sterile operating environment is increased with electrosurgical instruments, because an additional cable, particularly an RF cable, must be routed to the instrument. Such a cable connects to the instrument at an instrument base, for example. For this cable, too, at least the areas near the instrument or patient must meet the sterility requirements.

[0010] This now regularly means that the arms of the surgical robot and the separate cable must be sterilized and / or provided with sterile covers.

[0011] Furthermore, the effort required to change an instrument increases, since on the one hand an interface to the arm of the surgical robot and on the other hand an interface to the additional line (e.g. HF line) must be operated.

[0012] Against this background, the present disclosure is based on the object of providing an interface for receiving an electrosurgical instrument on a handling device that reduces the effort required for sterilization and, if possible, the setup effort. Preferably, error-free operation should be enabled. A secure sterile barrier should be provided between a non-sterile area and a sterile area. In particular, the effort required for changing instruments should be reduced. Preferably, the use of non-sterile additional cables (e.g., HF cables) should be enabled.

[0013] Furthermore, a relevant surgical system with a medical handling device that uses such an interface is to be specified.

[0014] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to an interface for receiving an electrosurgical instrument on a handling device, the interface comprising: - a handling interface at a distal end of an instrument holder of a handling device, - at least one line interface adjacent to the handling interface for an electrosurgical line, which can be fixed in a receptacle at the distal end of the instrument holder, wherein the line interface and the handling interface are arranged on the instrument holder for joint movement in a defined relative position to each other, - a sterilizable adapter piece which can be plugged onto the distal end of the instrument holder and is designed to receive a cover which extends proximally and encloses at least sections of the instrument holder and the electrosurgical cable, wherein the sterilizable adapter piece provides a first adapter interface that can be coupled to the handling interface and a second adapter interface that can be coupled to the line interface, and wherein the sterilizable adapter piece seals the line interface distally at least impermeably to germs.

[0015] The object of the invention is achieved in this way.

[0016] According to the invention, the adapter piece allows for a simultaneous connection between the instrument and the handling device via the handling interface and the line interface. The instrument only needs to be aligned with its base and coupled to the adapter piece.

[0017] In other words, the adapter piece imitates the instrument holder (and the HF connection) on the side facing the instrument (distal side of the adapter piece) and the instrument on the side facing the instrument holder (proximal side of the adapter piece), at least in exemplary embodiments.

[0018] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "distal" refers to those elements, sections, and regions that are positioned toward and / or close to the patient, or that are positioned remotely and / or away from a base of the surgical system. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "proximal" refers to those elements, sections, and regions that are positioned remotely and / or far from the patient, or that are positioned closer to a base of the surgical system than a corresponding "distal" element.

[0019] Furthermore, the sterilizable adapter piece enables sterile covering for both the handling device, at least in the area of ​​its instrument holder, and the electrosurgical cable. This is made possible by a cover that extends proximally from the mounted adapter piece or can be unfolded / rolled out proximally. This eliminates the need for complex sterilization of the electrosurgical cable. Instead, one and the same cover is used to separate both the instrument holder (for example, on a distal arm section of a surgical robot) and the electrosurgical cable from the sterile space in which a planned procedure takes place.

[0020] The sterilizable adapter piece seals the line interface distally, at least to prevent germs from passing through. The term "germ-proof" is commonly used in medical technology and is used, for example, for cloths, covers, drapes, and the like for surgical applications. In one exemplary embodiment, the sterilizable adapter piece hermetically seals the line interface distally.

[0021] The interface described in the context of the present disclosure can generally also be referred to as an interface assembly. The interface can establish a mechanical coupling between the instrument holder and the instrument. The instrument's degrees of freedom of movement are typically controlled via the handling interface. Accordingly, in one exemplary embodiment, the adapter piece has one or more openings in the first adapter interface through which actuating elements can reach.

[0022] The instrument holder is typically formed on a final (distal) arm section of the handling device, particularly a surgical robot. The instrument holder can remain attached to the handling device when an instrument is changed. The instrument holder does not necessarily need to be extensively actively sterilized. Instead, sterile shielding can be provided via the cover, which extends from the adapter piece proximally over the instrument holder and the electrosurgical lead.

[0023] Preparation of the surgical system can be simplified by simplifying the coupling process between the instrument holder and the instrument. Furthermore, the adapter itself can be removed from the instrument holder. This allows the adapter (including the cover, if necessary) to be cleaned and sterilized. It is also conceivable to design the adapter and cover as a disposable part, allowing a used adapter to be replaced with a new one.

[0024] The term “sterilizable adapter” refers to adapters that can be sterilized before and / or after use, but also to adapters (such as disposable adapters) that were sterilized during original production.

[0025] According to an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle for the line interface is adjacent to the handling interface, wherein the distal end of the instrument holder has a holding piece that fixes the handling interface and the receptacle for the electrosurgical line relative to one another.

[0026] The handling interface and the line interface can be arranged on the same support piece. This allows both interfaces (handling interface and line interface) to be connected with a single movement. This is advantageous compared to designs in which both the handling interface and the line interface (from the perspective of an instrument) must be contacted and connected separately via corresponding counterparts.

[0027] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the receptacle is formed on the holding piece, wherein the receptacle serves to receive a mounting piece into which the electrosurgical line opens, and wherein the mounting piece in particular accommodates at least a section of the line interface.

[0028] A mounting piece can be provided at the distal end of the electrosurgical lead, allowing the lead to be attached to the holder. Electrosurgical leads used with medical handling devices are typically designed to be moved by the respective handling device, for example, by locking (clipping) the lead onto movable parts of the handling device.

[0029] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the mounting piece can be inserted into the receptacle obliquely or transversely to a longitudinal axis of the handling interface, wherein the mounting piece can be received in the receptacle in a form-fitting manner, at least in sections. The longitudinal axis is oriented, for example, perpendicular to a plane in which the instrument holder and the adapter piece or the instrument holder and the instrument contact each other (directly or indirectly). The joining movement or engaging movement is, for example, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. For example, the longitudinal axis extends through a center of the handling interface. For example, the longitudinal axis is oriented parallel to the longitudinal extension of a (distal) arm section of the handling device that carries or forms the instrument holder. In an exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal axis is oriented parallel to a longitudinal extension of a shaft of the instrument.

[0030] According to another exemplary embodiment, the mounting piece is designed as a grommet, wherein the mounting piece has a groove for securing its position in the receptacle. For example, the mounting piece is designed as a U-shaped grommet through which the cable extends. The grommet can be inserted laterally into the receptacle. If the grommet is provided with a groove, the groove can be coupled to a corresponding elevation in the receptacle, thus ensuring positive axial positional security.

[0031] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the holding piece comprises or forms a holding plate, wherein the holding plate forms the receptacle, and wherein the receptacle is in particular laterally offset from an arm portion of the handling device that supports the instrument holder. In this way, the instrument holder provides a front end in which the handling interface and the line interface are arranged and contactable for the adapter piece.

[0032] In particular, the lead interface is arranged outside the arm portion of the handling device that supports the instrument holder. Thus, neither the lead interface nor the electrosurgical lead is an integral part of the handling device, which is arranged within an arm of the handling device.

[0033] According to another exemplary embodiment, the electrosurgical lead is attached at least in sections to the handling device, in particular to at least one arm section of the handling device. This can be ensured by locking elements (clips). In this way, the electrosurgical lead can follow the movements of the arm of the handling device. The instrument can be supplied with electrosurgical signals even when the handling device moves the instrument.

[0034] According to another exemplary embodiment, the adapter piece can be plugged onto a front end of the instrument holder, wherein the adapter piece, when plugged in, fixes the cable interface of the electrosurgical cable in the receptacle, in particular, securely fixes it. In other words, the adapter piece according to this embodiment can provide a positional lock for the cable mounting piece. Once the adapter piece is mounted, the cable mounting piece cannot be removed from the receptacle.

[0035] According to another exemplary embodiment, the adapter piece secures the electrosurgical lead in the receptacle with a positive fit. This is achieved, for example, by a lateral edge of the adapter piece that at least partially surrounds the holding piece and the receptacle with the mounting piece arranged therein. The mounting piece of the lead is secured against lateral disengagement. This firmly defines the relative position between the handling interface and the lead interface.

[0036] Additionally, the adapter piece can engage with the cable interface via a connector, thus supporting positive positioning. Once the adapter piece is installed, the cable mounting piece cannot be removed.

[0037] According to another exemplary embodiment, the second adapter interface of the adapter piece provides a lateral offset from the line interface, wherein the second adapter interface comprises, in particular, a socket into which a pin on the instrument side can be engaged for transmitting an electrosurgical signal. In other words, the line does not extend exclusively axially (parallel to the longitudinal axis) through the adapter piece.

[0038] The lateral offset between the lead interface and the second adapter interface results in a smaller installation space requirement in the axial direction (parallel to the longitudinal axis). In other words, the adapter piece can be designed particularly thin, even if contacting the electrosurgical lead actually requires a larger axial installation space.

[0039] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the adapter piece is formed from an electrically insulating material, in particular from a plastic material. The adapter piece has a base body and, at the second adapter interface, an embedded conductor that interconnects a first contact section for proximal contacting and a second contact section for distal contacting. The embedded conductor is completely enclosed, at least in sections, by the electrically insulating material between the first contact section and the second contact section. In this way, the lateral offset between the line interface and the second adapter interface can be achieved.

[0040] For example, the adapter piece is designed as a disc or plate. The dimensions in the axial direction (parallel to the longitudinal axis) are not excessively large. The embedded conductor can also be referred to as a metal bridge between the line interface and the second adapter interface.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, both the first contact section for proximal contacting (through the electrosurgical lead) and the second contact section for distal contacting (through the instrument) extend proximally from a base plane of the adapter piece. This reduces the axial space requirement.

[0042] According to a further exemplary embodiment, one of the first contact section and the second contact section is designed as a plug and the other as a socket, wherein the first contact section and the second contact section preferably extend in the same direction relative to a base plane of the adapter piece. For example, the first contact section and the second contact section extend proximally. If one contact section is designed as a plug and another contact section is designed as a socket, the adapter piece can again imitate the instrument holder from the perspective of the instrument and the instrument from the perspective of the instrument holder.

[0043] According to another exemplary embodiment, the first contact section is accessible exclusively on a proximal side of the adapter piece, while the second contact section is accessible exclusively on a distal side of the adapter piece. In this way, sterile shielding can be ensured between the distal side (sterile space for the operation) and the proximal side (non-sterile space).

[0044] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the interface has a first line interface for a first electrosurgical line and a second line interface for a second electrosurgical line, in particular for supplying a bipolar electrosurgical instrument.

[0045] In other words, the interface can supply power to monopolar electrosurgical instruments if at least a first lead interface is provided. In the case of bipolar electrosurgical instruments, the interface has at least two lead interfaces so that both electrodes can be supplied. Each of the two lead interfaces can be designed according to at least one of the embodiments described herein. Elements of the interface (interface assembly) related to the transmission of the electrosurgical signal are duplicated to connect two electrosurgical leads.

[0046] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure relates to a surgical system comprising a medical handling device and at least one interface according to at least one of the embodiments described herein, which interface is formed between the handling device and an instrument received on the instrument holder of the handling device, wherein the instrument has a base with a first instrument interface and a second instrument interface, wherein the first instrument interface is coupled to the handling interface via the interface, and wherein the second instrument interface is coupled to the line interface via the interface.

[0047] This allows the instrument to be easily connected and disconnected via the interface. Both the handling interface and the lead interface can be contacted with a single connection. Furthermore, it simplifies the provision of the necessary sterile space for planned surgeries. The adapter piece can carry or accommodate a sterile cover that extends distally from the adapter piece and covers the instrument holder and at least a portion of the electrosurgical lead.

[0048] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0049] Further features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the following description and explanation of several exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1: a simplified perspective view of an operating system; Fig. 2: a detailed view of the operating system according to Fig. 1 to illustrate a handling device; Fig. 3: a perspective view of an instrument designed to be received on a handling device, with an orientation from proximal to distal; Fig. 4: a perspective partial view of a distal end region of the handling device according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 with an instrument holder; Fig. 5: a partial perspective view of a distal end portion of an electrosurgical lead with a mounting piece; Fig. 6: a perspective view of an adapter piece that can be positioned between an instrument holder and an instrument; Fig. 7: a perspective sectional view of an instrument holder provided with an adapter piece; Fig. 8: a perspective, partially exploded view of an interface between a handling device and an instrument, the instrument being spaced from the handling device for illustrative purposes; and Fig. 9 one on Fig. 8 Leaning perspective, partially exploded view of an interface between a handling device and an instrument designed as a bipolar instrument.

[0050] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an operating system designated 10. Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the arrangement according to Fig. 1. The operating system 10 is in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 not equipped with an instrument.

[0051] The operating system 10 is used to treat a patient 12, the patient 12 is in Fig. 1 schematically depicts a torso. A patient support 14 is provided for supporting the patient 12. The surgical system 10 comprises a handling device 18, which is configured, for example, as a surgical robot 20. In the exemplary design according to Fig. 1, the handling device 18 sits on a mobile carriage 22. However, this is not to be understood as limiting.

[0052] The handling device 18 comprises at least one deflectable arm 24, which can also be referred to as an articulated arm. The arm 24 is hingedly mounted on a base 26 and comprises a plurality of serially arranged sections 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, which can also be referred to as arm sections. The arm sections 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 are hingedly connected to one another. The arm section 28 faces the base 26 and can therefore be referred to as the proximal arm section. The arm section 36 is at the maximum distance from the base 26 in the climatic chain of the arm 24 and can therefore be referred to as the distal arm section. The arm 24 is motor-controlled. For this purpose, a console is typically used, which is integrated in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is not shown. In this way, an operator does not have to be directly near the patient 12 to perform an operation or other procedure (generally: a treatment) on or in the body of the patient 12. The surgical system 10 is suitable, for example, for minimally invasive treatments that take place at least partially within the body of the patient 12.

[0053] The distal arm section 36 has an interface 40 for receiving an instrument (compare the instrument 60 in Fig. 3). The interface 40 comprises an instrument holder 42, which is arranged at the distal end of the (distal) arm section 36. The surgical system 10 is suitable for electrosurgical treatments. For this purpose, a generator 48 is provided in the exemplary embodiment, which provides an electrosurgical signal. For example, the generator 48 is a high-frequency generator (HF generator). The generator 48 is connected to the instrument holder 42 via at least one electrosurgical line 50 in order to provide the electrosurgical signal to an instrument there. In the exemplary embodiment according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the line 50 extends along the arm 24 towards the (distal) arm section 36.

[0054] The cable 50 is attached to at least some of the arm sections 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 via a plurality of locking elements 52. The cable 50 is routed along at least some of the arm sections 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, but outside the arm sections 28, 30, 32, 34, 36. In the exemplary embodiment, the cable 50 is routed parallel to the arm 24. The cable 50 opens into the instrument holder 42 to be coupled to an instrument there. Fig. Figure 2 additionally illustrates a longitudinal axis 54 extending through the interface 40. In the exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal axis 54 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal extension of the (distal) arm section 36. The line 50 is arranged outside the arm section 36 and offset from the longitudinal axis 54.

[0055] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates, in a perspective view, an embodiment of an instrument 60 which is suitable for use with the handling device 18 in the surgical system 10 according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. In the exemplary embodiment, the instrument 60 is a so-called HF instrument or generally designed as an electrosurgical instrument. The instrument 60 comprises a base 62, which is designed for coupling to the instrument holder 42 via the interface 40. The base 62 carries a shaft 64, which carries an end effector 66 at its distal end. The end effector 66 is, for example, a surgical forceps, tweezers, scissors, or the like. In the exemplary embodiment, the end effector 66 has two jaws (branches). This is not to be understood as limiting.

[0056] The base 62 defines a proximal end of the instrument 60, which can be coupled to the distal end of the arm 24 of the handling device 18. The end effector 66 is located at the distal end of the instrument 60 or the handling device 18 (when the instrument 60 is mounted). In the exemplary embodiment, the base 62 has a front end 68, which serves for (at least indirect) coupling to the instrument holder 42.

[0057] The instrument 60 has a first instrument interface 70 and a second instrument interface 72 on the base 62. In the exemplary embodiment, the first instrument interface 70 serves in particular to control various degrees of freedom of movement of the instrument 60. In other words, control elements, for example, pull wires and the like, can be routed along the first instrument interface 70. It is understood that supply lines, signal lines, and the like can also be routed along the first instrument interface 70, provided the instrument 60 comprises corresponding components (drives, sensors, and the like).

[0058] The second instrument interface 72 serves to provide an electrosurgical signal that is transmitted to the instrument 60 via the line 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the second instrument interface 72 comprises an instrument-side pin 74 that extends proximally and serves to contact and transmit the electrosurgical signal.

[0059] Fig. 4 shows an enlarged view of components of the interface 40, compare also Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The interface 40 is formed at a distal end 76 of the instrument holder 42 or the arm section 36. In the assembled state of the instrument 60, the front 68 ( Fig. 3) the instrument 60 of a forehead 78 (compare Fig. 4) facing.

[0060] The interface 40 comprises a handling interface 80 and a line interface 82. The handling interface 80 can be (indirectly) coupled to the first instrument interface 70 of the instrument 60. Line interface 82 can be (indirectly) coupled to the second instrument interface 72 of the instrument 60. In the mounted state, the handling interface 80 and the first instrument interface 70 face each other. In the mounted state, the line interface 82 and the second instrument interface 72 face each other.

[0061] In the embodiment according to Fig. 4, the instrument holder 42 comprises a holding piece 86, which comprises a carrier 88, which is designed here as a carrier plate. A receptacle 90 is formed in the carrier 88, which serves to receive a mounting piece 92, which is a component of the cable interface 82. The electrosurgical cable 50 opens into the mounting piece 92 at the instrument holder 42. For better coupling and to prevent cable breakage, a tube section 94 extending proximally from the mounting piece 92 serves to insert the cable 50. Fig. 4, an arrow labeled 96 illustrates a mounting direction for the mounting piece 92 for receiving in the receptacle 90 of the holding piece 86. The mounting direction 96 is oriented approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 54, which in Fig. 4 runs centrally through the arm section 36 and the handling interface 80.

[0062] Fig. 5 shows in addition to Fig. 4 shows an isolated view of the line interface 82 with the mounting piece 92 at the distal end of the line 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the mounting piece 92 is designed as an approximately U-shaped grommet 98, which can engage laterally into the receptacle 90 in the holding piece 86. The mounting piece 92 has a circumferential groove 102, which can be coupled to a corresponding counterpart (protrusion) on the holding piece 86; see Fig. 7. In the exemplary embodiment, the groove 102 extends along the flanks of the "U." In this way, the mounting piece 92 can be secured in its axial position (relative to the longitudinal axis 54) on the holding piece 86. A bushing 104 is formed at the distal end of the mounting piece 92. The bushing 104 forms (in terms of signaling) the distal end of the line interface 50.

[0063] The interface 40 provides an indirect coupling between the instrument 60 and the instrument holder 42. With reference to the Fig. 6-8 illustrates an adapter piece 110 disposed between the instrument holder 42 and the instrument 60 to couple the two together.

[0064] The adapter piece 110 has a base body 112, which is formed, for example (but not necessarily), from a plastic material. The base body 112 has a recess 114, which in the assembled state (see Fig. 7) faces the instrument holder 42 or the holding piece 86 of the instrument holder 42. The end face 78 of the holding piece 86 can engage in the recess 114 and there contact the base body 112. The base body 112 further forms an edge 116 which extends at least partially around the recess 114. In the assembled state according to Fig. 7, the edge 116 laterally encloses the holding piece 86 together with the mounting piece 92 of the line interface 82, which is engaged in the receptacle 90, compare additionally Fig. 4 (shown without adapter piece 110).

[0065] In Fig. In Figure 7, components of the instrument holder 42 with the holding piece 86 and of the mounting piece 92 with the tubular section 94 are shown hatched, with the respective hatching completely filling the inner contour. In other words, internal structures of the instrument holder 42 and the mounting piece 92 with the tubular section 94 are not shown in detail for illustrative purposes. This applies, for example, to an inner conductor in the tubular section 94, which forms, for example, a socket in the mounting piece 92. The same applies to control elements and the like that are provided on the holding piece 86 of the instrument holder 42 at the handling interface 80.

[0066] In this way, the position of the mounting piece 92 and the line interface 82 is fixed on the instrument holder 42. In particular, the relative position between the handling interface 80 and the line interface 82 is defined and fixed in this way. In other words, at least in exemplary embodiments, a single assembly step is sufficient to join the instrument 60 to the instrument holder 42 via the adapter piece 110. The adapter piece 110 has a base plane 118 (see Fig. 7) to which the instrument 60 can be coupled with its base 62.

[0067] The adapter piece 110 comprises a first adapter interface 120 and a second adapter interface 122. In the exemplary embodiment, the first adapter interface 120 is arranged in the recess 114. The first adapter interface 120 is designed to be coupled proximally to the handling interface 80 and distally to the first instrument interface 70. The second adapter interface 122 is designed to be coupled proximally to the line interface 82 and distally to the second instrument interface 72. In other words, the adapter piece 110 can imitate the instrument holder 42 from the perspective of the instrument 60 and the instrument 60 from the perspective of the instrument holder 42, at least in exemplary embodiments.

[0068] In the exemplary embodiment, the first adapter interface 120 has one or more openings 124 through which control elements can extend. In the exemplary embodiment, the second adapter interface 122 has a proximally projecting plug 128 within the recess 114 and a proximally projecting jacket 130 in a side part 126 laterally next to the recess 114. The plug 128 is conductive and is connected to the socket 104 (see Fig. 5). The sheath 130 is non-conductive and, in particular, is made of the same material from which the base body 112 is (at least substantially). Both the plug 128 and the sheath 130 extend proximally. This is also evident from the sectional view according to Fig. 7 clearly.

[0069] The adapter piece 110 serves as a carrier for a cover 134, which can extend proximally from the adapter piece 110, see also Fig. 8. The cover 134 is designed as a sterile cover and ensures a sterile covering of the instrument holder 42 and at least a distal section of the arm 24 of the handling device 18. In the exemplary embodiment, the cover 134 adjoins a peripheral edge 136 of the adapter piece 110. Components of the handling device 18 that are covered by the adapter piece 110 or the cover 134 do not require complex sterilization. The cover 134 also extends over the line interface 82 or at least partially over the line 50. Therefore, the effort required to create sterile conditions is also reduced here.

[0070] The adapter piece 110 couples with the recess 114 or the edge 116 to the holding piece 86 of the instrument holder 42. This includes a coupling of the first adapter interface 120 ( Fig. 6) with the handling interface 80 ( Fig. 4) and a coupling of the second adapter interface 122 ( Fig. 6) with the line interface 82 ( Fig. 4). The at least one opening 124 of the first adapter interface 120 allows the coupling of control elements and the like.

[0071] In the second adapter interface 122, the plug 128 engages the socket 104 in the mounting piece 92 of the line interface 82. An embedded conductor 138 is arranged within the adapter piece 110 and is embedded in the base body 112. The conductor 138 extends between the plug 128 and the sheath 130. The embedded conductor 138 connects a first contact section 140 at the plug 128 and a second contact section 142, which in the exemplary embodiment is designed as a socket 146 insulated proximally from the sheath 130. The socket 146 can be contacted from the distal direction by the pin 72 of the instrument 60; see also Fig. 8. The first contact portion 140 and the second contact portion 142 extend proximally relative to the base plane 118 of the adapter piece 110.

[0072] The embedded conductor 138 provides a lateral offset between the first contact section 140 and the second contact section 142. In this way, both contact sections 140, 142 can extend substantially proximally and take up installation space there. This has the advantage that the overall axial installation space required by the adapter piece 110 between the instrument holder 42 and the instrument 60 is minimized. The second contact section 142 is arranged in the side part 126 of the base body 112 of the adapter piece 110. Therefore, the sheath 130 can extend proximally without colliding with the cable 50 and / or the distal arm section 36 or the instrument holder 42.

[0073] Fig. Figure 8 illustrates that, in the exemplary embodiment, the instrument 60 can be coupled to the handling device 18 via the adapter piece 110 with just one joining movement (compare an arrow labeled 150). This includes a coupling to the first adapter interface 120 and the second adapter interface 122. The adapter interfaces 120 and 122 are fixedly positioned relative to one another and can be coupled together.

[0074] The embodiment according to Fig. 9 is based on the arrangements according to the Fig. 1-8. By way of derogation, instrument 60 in Fig. 9 has two pins 72, 272, which can be coupled with two electrosurgical lines 50, 250. In other words, the instrument 60 is in Fig.9 is designed as a bipolar instrument. With such a design, the interface 40 provides a first line interface 82 and a second line interface 282, with the adapter piece 110 also being designed accordingly. In other words, the adapter piece 110 would accordingly have two "second" adapter interfaces that open into two sockets 146, 346. Regarding the detailed design, reference is made to the above explanations regarding a monopolar design. Thus, an interface 40 designed according to the disclosure is suitable for both monopolar and bipolar instruments when designed accordingly.

Claims

[1] Interface (40) for receiving an electrosurgical instrument (60) on a handling device (18), which comprises: - a handling interface (80) at a distal end (76) of an instrument holder (42) of a handling device (18), - at least one line interface (82) adjacent to the handling interface (80) for an electrosurgical line (50) which can be fixed in a receptacle (90) at the distal end (76) of the instrument holder (42), wherein the line interface (82) and the handling interface (80) are arranged for joint movement in a defined relative position to each other on the instrument holder (42), - a sterilizable adapter piece (110) which can be plugged onto the distal end (76) of the instrument holder (42) and is designed to receive a cover (134) which extends proximally and encloses the instrument holder (42) and the electrosurgical line (50) at least in sections, wherein the sterilizable adapter piece (110) has a first adapter interface (120) which can be coupled to the handling interface (80) and a second adapter interface (122) which can be coupled to the line interface (82), and wherein the sterilizable adapter piece (110) closes off the line interface (82) distally in a manner that is at least impermeable to germs. [2] Interface (40) according to claim 1, wherein the receptacle (90) for the lead interface (82) is adjacent to the handling interface (80), and wherein the distal end (76) of the instrument holder (42) has a holding piece (86) which fixes the handling interface (80) and the receptacle (90) for the electrosurgical lead (50) relative to one another. [3] Interface (40) according to claim 2, wherein the receptacle (90) is formed on the holding piece (86) and serves to receive a mounting piece (92) into which the electrosurgical line (50) opens, and wherein the mounting piece (92) in particular accommodates at least a portion of the line interface (82). [4] Interface (40) according to claim 3, wherein the mounting piece (92) can be engaged obliquely or transversely to a longitudinal axis (54) of the handling interface (80) into the receptacle (90), and wherein the mounting piece (92) can be received in the receptacle (90) in a form-fitting manner, in particular at least in sections. [5] Interface (40) according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the mounting piece (92) is designed as a grommet (98) and has a groove (102) for fixing the position in the receptacle (90). [6] Interface (40) according to one of claims 2-5, wherein the holding piece (86) comprises or forms a holding plate (88) which forms the receptacle (90), and wherein the receptacle (90) is in particular laterally offset from an arm section (36) of the handling device (18) which carries the instrument holder (42). [7] Interface (40) according to one of claims 1-6, wherein the electrosurgical line (50) is at least partially attached to the handling device (18), in particular to at least one arm section (36) of the handling device (18). [8] Interface (40) according to one of claims 1-7, wherein the adapter piece (110) can be plugged onto a front end (78) of the instrument holder (42) and, in the plugged-on state, fixes the line interface (82) of the electrosurgical line (50) in the receptacle (90), in particular fixes it in a captive manner. [9] Interface (40) according to claim 8, wherein the adapter piece (110) secures the electrosurgical lead (50) in a form-fitting manner in the receptacle (90). [10] Interface (40) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the second adapter interface (122) of the adapter piece (110) provides a lateral offset to the line interface (82) and in particular comprises a socket (146) into which an instrument-side pin (72) can be engaged for transmitting an electrosurgical signal. [11] Interface (40) according to one of claims 8-10, wherein the adapter piece (110) is formed from an electrically insulating material, in particular from plastic material, and has a base body (112) and, in the second adapter interface (122), an embedded conductor (138) which connects a first contact section (140) for proximal contacting and a second contact section (142) for distal contacting, and wherein the embedded conductor (138) is at least partially completely enclosed by the electrically insulating material between the first contact section (140) and the second contact section (142). [12] Interface (40) according to claim 11, wherein one of the first contact portion (140) and the second contact portion (142) is designed as a plug (128) and another as a socket (146), and wherein the first contact portion (140) and the second contact portion (142) preferably extend in the same direction relative to a base plane (118) of the adapter piece (110). [13] Interface (40) according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the first contact portion (140) is accessible exclusively on a proximal side of the adapter piece (110), and wherein the second contact portion (142) is accessible exclusively on a distal side of the adapter piece (110). [14] Interface (40) according to one of claims 1-13, comprising a first line interface (82) for a first electrosurgical line (50) and a second line interface (282) for a second electrosurgical line (250), in particular for supplying a bipolar electrosurgical instrument (60). [15] Surgical system with a medical handling device (18) and at least one interface (40) according to one of claims 1-14, which is formed between the handling device (18) and an instrument (60) received on the instrument holder (42) of the handling device (18), wherein the instrument (60) has a base (62) with a first instrument interface (70) and a second instrument interface (72), wherein the first instrument interface (70) is coupled to the handling interface (80) via the interface (40), and wherein the second instrument interface (72) is coupled to the line interface (82) via the interface (40).

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