SURGICAL PISTOL HANDLE AND SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PISTOL HANDLE

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a surgical pistol grip for a surgical instrument, in particular an electrosurgical instrument of the minimally invasive shaft design. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a surgical instrument with such a pistol grip.

[0002] Electrosurgical instruments, particularly of a minimally invasive design, are already known from the prior art. These instruments, which are primarily multi-part and consist of, for example, two scissor-, clamp-, forceps-, or tweezer-shaped tool sections / elements movable relative to each other and, in particular, pivotable, enable the cutting, grasping, holding, and / or clamping of body tissue in order to coagulate, ablate, or sever the tissue by applying a monopolar or bipolar high-frequency voltage. Such an instrument is known, for example, from EP 3 033 022 A1.

[0003] From DE 37 09 067 A1, a surgical instrument with a handle is also known, comprising a stationary handle and an actuating handle pivotally connected to the handle. The actuating handle is coupled to an actuating rod (which can be actuated like a piston) via a positive-locking coupling, the coupling being formed by a coupling part with a semicircular recess formed on the actuating rod and a coupling part with a semicircular projection coupled to the actuating handle. The coupling part is arranged to be longitudinally displaceable within the actuating handle and is pressed into engagement with the coupling part by a compression spring.

[0004] Furthermore, EP 1 607 053 A1 discloses an endoscope with a pistol-grip handle, which has a fixed handle element with a finger loop and an actuating lever with a thumb loop pivotally attached to it. Pressing the actuating lever and the handle element together triggers a proximal pulling movement of a wire.

[0005] Furthermore, US patent 2014 / 0180263 A1 discloses a pistol grip for a surgical instrument in which the pivotally mounted operating lever is coupled to the transmission via two rotating parts. US patent 2019 / 0046196 A1 discloses a handle with an operating lever coupled to a longitudinally movable forming plate via a spring. Finally, US patents 5,947,984 A1 and 9,011,484 B2 each disclose a scissor handle with a spring in the power transmission cable.

[0006] The tool is articulated (or articulated) at a distal (operator-farther / patient-farther) end of the instrument, particularly at the instrument shaft, and coupled to a handle at a proximal (operator-farther / patient-farther) end of the instrument via a transmission, preferably in the form of a longitudinally displaceable pull / push rod located inside the instrument shaft. The handle has an actuating element corresponding to the tool's operation (e.g., a lever, button, knob, or scissor handle), the (especially manual) actuation of which results in a corresponding movement of the tool's branches at the application site, such as a cutting / gripping / holding / clamping movement and / or a rotating / pivoting movement on or within the patient's tissue.

[0007] Electrosurgical instruments of the relevant design generally use a so-called pistol grip with a rigid / immobile grip shell, in particular in the form of a (gear) housing that extends from distal to proximal, i.e. essentially along a shaft axis of the instrument shaft, and a fixed grip element that extends at an angle / transverse to the distal-proximal direction and is formed (integrally / directly) on a proximal end section of the (gear) housing or is fixed to it (as a separate, firmly connected component).A manually operated, preferably finger-guided, actuating lever (trigger / lever) is pivotally mounted to the handle. This lever can be held—for example, in a monkey grip—by several fingers of an operator's hand and manually pulled towards the handle, particularly the grip element, to activate the trigger. This pulling / actuating movement of the actuating lever / trigger is transmitted via a gearbox housed within the transmission mechanism inside the instrument shaft, which is attached to or can be attached to the handle, to the instrument itself, thus moving / actuating it accordingly. Furthermore, a switch is preferably mounted on the pistol grip to trigger the application of high-frequency voltage to the instrument.

[0008] At least one of the two tool sections can be equipped with an electrode or array of electrodes through which the high-frequency voltage can be selectively introduced into the patient tissue. In this case, it would be a monopolar electrosurgical instrument, in which a patient, for example, rests on a metal plate through which the high-frequency voltage is conducted. Alternatively, both opposing tool sections can be equipped with a corresponding electrode or array of electrodes, or be made of an electrically conductive material, so that the high-frequency voltage is only present in a gap between the sections. In this case, it would be a bipolar electrosurgical instrument.

[0009] Due to their design, pistol grips allow for the application of very high operating forces via the lever. In particular, if fabric or similar material is caught or gripped between the tool jaws, the lever's pivoting movement (before reaching its end position) is limited. This could damage the instrument's components within the force transmission system if further or increased operating force is applied, which must be avoided at all costs.

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is therefore to avoid or at least reduce the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, a pistol grip for a surgical instrument, as well as a surgical instrument with such a pistol grip, is to be provided, which is particularly ergonomic to operate and has a space-saving design, while simultaneously enabling suitable force transmission from the handle to the instrument and protecting the components involved in the force transmission from overload and resulting damage.

[0011] This problem is solved by a surgical pistol grip of or for a surgical instrument, in particular an electrosurgical instrument, having the features of the independent claim and / or by a surgical instrument, in particular an electrosurgical instrument, having the features of the dependent claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments according to the disclosure are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0012] Accordingly, the task is accomplished by a surgical pistol grip (hereinafter also referred to simply as the grip) of or for a surgical instrument, in particular an electrosurgical instrument of the minimally invasive shaft design. The grip has a gearbox housing that extends from distal to proximal (in a distal-proximal direction that essentially corresponds to a direction along a shaft axis of an instrument shaft or shaft assembly coupled or connectable to the grip). Furthermore, the grip has a fixed handle element (grip part) that extends at an angle, i.e., transversely, to the distal-proximal direction and is fixed to a proximal end section of the gearbox housing, or, in particular, is formed on the gearbox housing, i.e., is integrally formed / connected to the gearbox housing.Furthermore, the handle has an actuating lever (trigger lever) pivotally mounted to the gearbox housing, which is in particular manually operable, preferably finger-guided, and by which an actuating force can be applied (by the operator). The handle also has a gearbox housed / received within the gearbox housing, which is designed to transmit a pivoting movement of the actuating lever (caused by manual actuation) into a translational movement, preferably a longitudinal movement, of a transmission, preferably a push / pull rod mounted within an instrument shaft that is or can be coupled / connected distally to the pistol handle.The gearbox comprises a (first) rotating part articulated to the gearbox housing, a (second) rotating part engaged with the first rotating part when the direction of rotation is reversed and which has a coupling section for the transmission, and an elastic overload protection element that couples the pivoting movement of the actuating lever with a rotation of the (first) rotating part. This means that the overload protection element is located in the power transmission path / power flow between the actuating lever and the rotating part. This has the advantage that an overload applied to the actuating lever (immediately after its inception) can be absorbed, thus protecting all components located downstream in the power transmission path from overload.

[0013] A key aspect of the present disclosure is therefore that an overload protection element is incorporated in the handle, which cushions an excessively high actuating force applied to the actuating lever, so that this force is not transmitted to the gearbox and the components arranged in the power transmission cable.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, force transmission between the actuating lever and the (first) rotating part can occur directly via the overload protection element. This means that the actuating lever is directly connected to the overload protection element and the rotating part is directly connected to the overload protection element.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, force transmission between the actuating lever and the (first) rotating part can occur exclusively via the overload protection element. This means that no force transmission parallel to the overload protection element takes place between the actuating lever and the rotating part.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the (first) rotating part can be rotatably mounted relative to the actuating lever. This means that relative rotation between the rotating part and the actuating lever is possible.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the fixed handle element can be arranged proximal to the operating lever. This results in ergonomic operation.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the fixed handle element can be designed without a grip opening, in particular without a finger opening and / or without a thumb opening. This means that the fixed handle element is designed to be gripped from the outside by a hand (palm). This means that the handle cannot be operated in a scissor-like manner or without using the thumb.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating lever and the (first) rotating part can be articulated about the same axis (rotatable or pivotable) on the gearbox housing. This enables a particularly simple design and ensures good power transmission via the overload protection element in the "normal" load range (i.e., not in the overload range).

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the overload protection element can be designed as a spring element, in particular as a helical spring. This makes the overload protection element simple and cost-effective. Furthermore, the dimensions of the overload protection can be adjusted by selecting a suitable helical spring.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating lever can have a recess in which the overload protection element is received. This means that the overload protection element is integrated directly into the actuating lever, thus saving space despite the additional overload protection element.

[0022] According to a further development of the preferred embodiment, the overload protection element can be arranged completely within the recess of the actuating lever, with the overload protection element preferably being covered on the outside by the actuating lever. This protects the overload protection element from contact with the environment, which offers advantages with regard to sterilization.

[0023] According to a further development of the preferred embodiment, the overload protection element can be loosely (i.e., not rigidly connected to the actuating lever and / or the rotating part) received in the recess. This means that the ends of the overload protection element merely rest against the actuating lever or rotating part and can only transmit compressive forces.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating lever can be pivoted in an actuation direction towards the handle element (and in a return direction away from the handle element, for example by pressing the actuating lever and handle element together). The overload protection element can be arranged, in particular, such that it acts in the actuation direction. Preferably, the overload protection element can be arranged such that it acts (only / exclusively) in the actuation direction (and not in the return direction). This means that the overload protection element only limits / damps / protects against overload the pivoting movement of the actuating lever towards the handle element. In particular, an actuation transmission surface of the actuating lever and a return transmission surface of the actuating lever can be formed separately from each other, i.e., on different surfaces.This means that the actuating lever and the first rotating part are not rigidly connected, and a (purely pressing) force transmission occurs when the actuating lever is actuated via the actuating transmission surface coupled to the first rotating part via the overload protection element, and a (purely pressing) force transmission occurs when the actuating lever is reset (directly) via the coupled reset transmission surface located on the first rotating part.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the overload protection element can be arranged and dimensioned such that an initial force transmission (initial in the direction of actuation, i.e., starting from the pivoting movement from an unactuated position of the actuating lever towards the handle element) via the overload protection element between the actuating lever and the rotating part exhibits a substantially linear transmission characteristic. This means that the coupling via the overload protection element is virtually rigid / inelastic during the initial force transmission, particularly during force transmission within the "normal" load / working range (and without resistance at the tool). In other words, the overload protection element has sufficiently high stiffness / hardness to have little or no effect on the force transmission within the "normal" load range.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the overload protection element can be arranged and dimensioned such that it is only compressed when an actuating force greater than 200 N, preferably greater than 300 N, is applied via the actuating lever (but at most only when an actuating force of 1000 N is applied via the actuating lever 22). This ensures that the overload protection element does not activate prematurely, but rather that the power transmission in the "normal" load range is not, or only minimally, affected by the overload protection element, and only becomes effective when a critical load is reached on the components in the power transmission system.

[0027] The task of disclosure is also accomplished by a surgical instrument, in particular an electrosurgical instrument of minimally invasive shaft design, with a described pistol grip. Brief description of the characters

[0028] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an instrument according to the present disclosure, Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a distal part of the instrument, Fig. 3 shows an enlarged perspective view of a proximal part of the instrument, Figures 4 to 11 show the formation or absorption of an insulating sheath of the instrument; Fig. 12 shows a longitudinal section view of a handle of the instrument; Figs. 13 and 14 show longitudinal section views of the handle in a fully open or closed position (or actuated and unactuated position) of a tool of the instrument; Figs. 15 and 16 show an overload protection function of the instrument; Fig. 17 shows a longitudinal section view of the instrument's handle in a loading position; Fig. 18 shows a longitudinal section of a distal end region of the instrument; and Fig. 19shows a cross-sectional view in the area of ​​a disassembly button of the instrument. Description of preferred embodiments

[0029] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a surgical instrument 2 according to the present disclosure. Figs. 2 and 3 Figures 2 show enlarged perspective views of a distal and proximal part of instrument 2. Instrument 2 is specifically designed as an electrosurgical instrument and intended for use in minimally invasive surgery and endoscopy, particularly laparoscopy. Instrument 2 is specifically designed as a minimally invasive shaft-type instrument.

[0030] The instrument 2 comprises a distally arranged tool 4, a shaft assembly 6 arranged proximally to the tool 4, and a handle 8 arranged proximally (to the tool 4 and the shaft assembly 6). This means that the tool 4 can be attached to or is attached to a distal end (working end) of the shaft assembly 6, and a proximal end (actuating end) of the shaft assembly 6 can be attached to or is attached to the handle 8 distally. Here, proximal and distal are defined in relation to an operator (user) of the instrument 2.

[0031] The instrument 2 comprises the (distally arranged) tool 4. The tool 4 is, in particular, composed of multiple parts and can, for example, consist of two scissor-, clamp-jaw-, pliers-, or tweezers-shaped tool branches (or elements) 10 that are movable relative to each other and, in particular, pivotable relative to each other. When the tool 4 is actuated, the tool branches 10 pivot relative to each other, thereby opening or closing. The tool 4, or the tool branches 10, can be used for cutting, grasping, holding, and / or clamping body tissue. The tool branches 10 are, in particular, rotatably mounted on the shaft assembly 6 about a tool pivot axis, so that at least one of the tool branches 10, preferably both tool branches 10, can pivot relative to the shaft assembly 6 and thus also relative to the other tool branch 10. The tool pivot axis is, in particular, transverse orThe tool 4 is oriented perpendicular to a distal-proximal direction. This distal-proximal direction corresponds in particular to a longitudinal axis of the shank assembly 6 (hereinafter referred to simply as a shank axis). The tool 4 is, in particular, rotationally coupled to the shank assembly 6 about its longitudinal axis, so that the tool 4 (as a whole) can be rotated with the shank assembly 6. The tool 4 is, in particular, made of a metal, preferably steel.

[0032] The instrument 2 or the shaft assembly 6 has an instrument shaft (or tube shaft) 12, the longitudinal axis (or tube axis) of which corresponds in particular to the shaft axis. The instrument shaft 12 can preferably be fixed translationally and preferably rotatably mounted about the shaft axis. The tool 4 can be coupled to the instrument shaft 12 such that a rotation of the instrument shaft 12 (about the shaft axis) causes (or forces / actuates) a rotation of the tool 4 (about the shaft axis). In particular, the tool 4 and the instrument shaft 12 can be connected to each other, preferably directly, in a rotationally fixed manner about the shaft axis. The instrument shaft 12 is in particular made of a metal, preferably steel.

[0033] The instrument 2 or the shaft assembly 6 has a transmission, preferably a push / pull rod 14 mounted inside the instrument shaft 12, the longitudinal axis of which corresponds in particular to the shaft axis or essentially to the distal-proximal direction. The transmission (push / pull rod 14) can be translationally displaceable, preferably axially / longitudinally movable, i.e., translationally displaceable along the shaft axis, and preferably rotationally fixed. The tool 4 can be coupled to the transmission (push / pull rod 14) such that a translational movement, in particular a longitudinal movement (along the shaft axis), causes (forces / actuates) an actuation of the tool 4, in particular a pivoting movement (i.e., opening and closing) of the tool branches 10 (about the tool pivot axis).In particular, the tool 4 and the push / pull rod 14 can be connected to each other, preferably via a coupling mechanism. This means that the longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod in a distal direction causes (or forces / actuates) the opening (or closing) of the tool 4 or the tool branches 10, and in a proximal direction (pull direction) causes (or forces / actuates) the closing (or opening) of the tool 4 or the tool branches 10. The push / pull rod 14 is preferably made of a metal, preferably steel.

[0034] The instrument 2 or the shaft assembly 6 has an insulating sheath 16, which is arranged, in particular, on the instrument shaft 12, and whose longitudinal axis (sheath axis) corresponds, in particular, to the shaft axis. The insulating sheath 16 can be mounted, in particular relative to the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14, in a way that is axially / longitudinally movable / displaceable, i.e., translationally displaceable along the shaft axis, and preferably rotatable (freely). The insulating sheath 16 is hollow, preferably tubular, and serves for the (radial) external electrical insulation of the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14, in particular between a distal end region and a proximal end region of the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14. The insulating sheath 16 is made of a material different from that of the instrument shaft 12, in particular of a plastic, preferably of PEEK.The installation of the insulating sheath 16 is described in more detail below.

[0035] The instrument 2, or the shaft assembly 6, has a cap 18, preferably annular in cross-section, arranged particularly on the instrument shaft 12. The instrument shaft 12, the push / pull rod 14, and / or the insulating sleeve 16 can pass axially through a (central) opening in the cap 18. The cap 18 can be fixed translationally and preferably rotationally, particularly relative to the instrument shaft 12. The cap 18 serves as an axial stop for the shaft assembly 6 on the handle 8.

[0036] The instrument 2 has the (proximally arranged) handle 8. The handle 8 is designed in particular as a pistol grip or as a pistol handle. The handle 8 has a gear housing 20 which extends in particular from distal to proximal, i.e. in the distal-proximal direction or substantially parallel to / along the shaft axis.

[0037] Furthermore, the handle 8 has a fixed grip element 21. The grip element 21 extends, in particular, at an angle, i.e., transversely, to the distal-proximal direction. The grip element 21 can be fixed to a proximal end section of the gearbox housing 20 or, in particular, be formed on the gearbox housing 20, i.e., be integrally connected with the gearbox housing 20. In particular, the gearbox housing 20 and the grip element 21 are rigidly connected to each other.

[0038] Furthermore, the handle 8 has an actuating lever 22 articulated to the gearbox housing 20, in particular a finger-guided or finger-guideable lever. The actuating lever 22 is in particular manually operable and has a point of application for applying an actuating force (by the operator). The actuating lever 22 can have a loop, preferably closed or substantially ring-shaped, for receiving the operator's fingers (preferably not a thumb), which forms the point of application for the actuating force. The actuating lever 22 can be pivotably mounted. The actuating lever 22 is in particular rotatably articulated to the gearbox housing 20 about an actuating lever pivot axis, so that the actuating lever 22 can be pivoted relative to the gearbox housing 20, i.e., towards or away from the handle element 21. The actuating lever pivot axis is in particular transverse or perpendicular to the shaft axis, i.e.,in the distal-proximal direction. Manual actuation of the actuating lever 22, i.e., by applying the actuating force to the point of application of the actuating force, in particular the loop, causes (or forces / actuates) a pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 (relative to the gearbox housing 20). The pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 towards the handle element 21, actuated, for example, by closing a hand of the operator / squeezing the actuating lever 22 and the handle element 21 together, is referred to below simply as pivoting / swiveling in an actuating direction or actuating the actuating lever 22. The pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 away from the handle element 21, actuated, for example, by opening a hand of the operator / pushing apart actuating lever 22 and handle element 21, is in the following referred to simply as pivoting / swiveling movement in a return direction or resetting of the actuating lever 22.

[0039] The instrument 2, or handle 8, has a transmission 24 that converts the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 (activated by manual actuation) into a translational movement of the transmission, specifically into a longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14. This means that the transmission 24 couples the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 with the longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14 (and thus (indirectly) with the actuation of the tool 4, or the opening and closing of the tool jaws 10). In other words, actuating the actuating lever 22 activates the longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14 in the push direction (or in the pull direction), and resetting the actuating lever 22 activates the longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14 in the pull direction (or in the push direction), which in turn causes the actuation (or opening or closing) of the tool 4.The gearbox 24 can preferably be arranged mostly or completely within the gearbox housing 20 or be covered by the gearbox housing 20 on the outside. One embodiment of the gearbox 24 is described in more detail below.

[0040] The instrument 2 or the handle 8 has a rotating star 26, arranged particularly at a distal end of the handle 8, the longitudinal axis (star axis) of which corresponds in particular to the shaft axis. The rotating star 26 can be mounted, preferably translationally fixed and preferably rotatably about the shaft axis, particularly relative to the gear housing 20. The instrument shaft 12, the push / pull rod 14, and / or the insulating sleeve 16 can be guided or pass axially through a (central) opening in the rotating star 26. The rotating star 26 can be coupled or connected to the instrument shaft 12 such that a rotation of the rotating star 26 (about the shaft axis) causes (forces / actuates) the rotation of the instrument shaft 12 (about the shaft axis), which in turn causes the rotation of the tool 4.In particular, the rotating star 26 and the instrument shaft 12 can be connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner about the shaft axis, preferably directly or via a component (fixed) to the instrument shaft 12.

[0041] The instrument 2, or rather the handle 8, has a disassembly button 28, the actuation (pressing) of which allows the shaft assembly 6 and the handle 8 to be disassembled, i.e., the shaft assembly 6 can be decoupled from the handle 8. A specific design of the disassembly button 28 is described in more detail below.

[0042] The instrument 2 or the handle 8 has a high-frequency connection, in particular an RF pin 30, through which the tool 4, in particular the tool branches 10, can be supplied with a high-frequency voltage. The RF pin 30 can be fixed, preferably translationally and preferably rotationally, in relation to the gearbox housing 20. The RF pin 30 can be in contact with, or bring into contact with, the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14 in order to transmit the high-frequency voltage through the material of the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14 to the tool 4. The RF pin 30 can be configured as a bipolar or a monopolar RF pin.

[0043] The handle 8 has a locking mechanism 32 by which the pivot position of the actuating lever 22 can be locked in predetermined detent positions. The locking mechanism 32 can be composed of a locking bar attached (fixed) to the handle element 21 and a detent attached (fixed) to the actuating lever 22.

[0044] The handle 8 has a push button 34 which can be used to trigger the application of high-frequency voltage to the tool 4. Alternatively, the push button 34 can be used to unlock the locking mechanism 32.

[0045] The formation or incorporation of the insulation mantle 16 is carried out with reference to Figures 4 to 11 described. Fig. 4 shows a longitudinal section view of a proximal image of the insulation sheath 16 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 5 shows a longitudinal section view of a proximal image of the insulation sheath 16 according to a second embodiment. Figs. 6 and 7shown are exploded views of individual parts of the proximal mounting of the insulation sheath 16 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 8 shows a longitudinal section view of a proximal image of the insulation sheath 16 according to a third embodiment. Figures 9 to 11 Figures 1 and 2 show different embodiments of a distal section of the insulating jacket 16 and a distal receptacle of the insulating jacket 16.

[0046] The insulating sheath 16 is, as described above, mounted axially displaceable (freely floating) on ​​the instrument shaft 12. A proximal axial stop 36 is formed on the instrument 2 to limit proximally directed axial movement (towards the handle 8) of the insulating sheath 16.

[0047] According to one aspect of the disclosure, the proximal axial stop 36 is axially displaceable on the instrument shaft 12. The proximal axial stop 36 is axially pre-tensioned distally. This means that the proximal axial stop 36 exerts a distally directed axial force on the insulating sheath 16, or that the proximal axial stop 36 is pressed distally by an axial pre-tension.

[0048] InIn its cooled state, the insulating sleeve 16 is in its mounting position and rests axially against the proximal axial stop 36. Upon heating, for example during sterilization of the instrument 2 and / or the shaft assembly 6, the insulating sleeve 16 and the instrument shaft 12 expand to different degrees due to their differing coefficients of thermal expansion, resulting in axial displacement of the insulating sleeve 16 on the instrument shaft 12. The expansion of the insulating sleeve 16 shifts the proximal axial stop 36, thereby increasing the axial preload on the proximal axial stop 36. When the insulating sleeve 16 cools and contracts again, the axial preload of the proximal axial stop 36 pushes the insulating sleeve 16 back into its mounting position.

[0049] Fig. 4Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the design of the proximal mounting of the insulating sheath 16. The proximal axial stop 36 is preferably formed on an annular disk 38, which is mounted, for example, on the instrument shaft 12 (e.g., placed / attached to an outer circumference of the instrument shaft 12). The axial preload of the proximal axial stop 36 is preferably realized by an axially preloading pressure element, in particular a spring 40, preferably in the form of a helical spring, which is arranged, for example, on the instrument shaft 12. The spring 40 can preferably bear directly against the disk 38. Alternatively, the spring 40 can preferably bear directly against the insulating sheath 16, so that an axial end face of the spring 40 forms the proximal axial stop 36. The proximal axial stop 36 (i.e.,The disc 38 and / or the spring 40 can preferably be arranged within a capsule-like adapter 42, which is mounted, in particular, on the instrument shaft 12. The adapter 42 can serve for the (radial) external electrical insulation of the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14. The adapter 42 can preferably be axially fixed to the instrument shaft 12.

[0050] The adapter 42 preferably has a distal stop 44 to limit distal axial movement (towards the tool 4) of the axially displaceable proximal axial stop 36 (i.e., the disc 38 and / or the spring 40). The axial position of the distal stop 44 can preferably be determined based on the thermal expansion behavior of the insulating sheath 16 and / or the instrument shaft 12. In particular, the axial position can be determined such that the insulating sheath 16, in its cooled state, rests axially against the proximal axial stop 36 (as well as a distal axial stop 80 described later) (i.e., that the insulating sheath 16 should not retract further distally due to its thermal expansion behavior than the proximal axial stop 36 can be pushed distally by the distal stop 44).The distal stop 44 can be formed in particular on a section of the adapter 42 extending radially inwards (especially further inwards beyond an outer circumference of the proximal axial stop 36 / disc 38).

[0051] The adapter 42 preferably has a receiving shell 46 with an insertion opening for the (axial) insertion (sliding in / inserting) of the proximal axial stop 36, in particular the disc 38 and / or the spring 40. The insertion opening can, in particular, have a larger outer diameter than the proximal axial stop 36, in particular than the disc 38 and / or the spring 40. The insertion opening can preferably be formed on a proximal side of the adapter 42. The receiving shell 46 can preferably form the distal stop 44 directly / integrally.

[0052] The adapter 42 preferably has a distal opening 48, which is substantially the same size as the outer diameter of the insulating sleeve 16 (or slightly larger to ensure axial displacement of the insulating sleeve 16), through which the insulating sleeve 16 (as well as the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14) is or can be axially guided. The distal opening 48 can be formed (directly / integrally) on an inner circumference (diameter) of the receiving shell 46.

[0053] Figures 5 to 7Figure 1 shows a second embodiment of the design of the proximal receptacle for the insulation sheath 16. The proximal receptacle according to the second embodiment can serve universally for (two) insulation sheaths 16 of different diameters. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in particular in that two proximal axial stops 36 are provided. A first proximal axial stop 50 serves to limit the axial movement of the insulation sheath 16 with a first (smaller) diameter, while a second proximal axial stop 52 serves to limit the axial movement of the insulation sheath 16 with a second (larger) diameter, wherein the first proximal axial stop 50 and the second proximal axial stop 52 each correspond in design essentially to the proximal axial stop 36 of the first embodiment.

[0054] The first and second proximal axial stops 50 and 52 are preferably formed on an annular first disk 54 and second disk 56, respectively, which is mounted on the instrument shaft 12 (e.g., attached to an outer circumference of the instrument shaft 12). The axial preload of the first and second proximal axial stops 50 and 52 is preferably realized by an axially preloading pressure element, in particular a first spring 58 and second spring 60, preferably in the form of a helical spring, which is arranged on the instrument shaft 12. The first and second spring 58 and 60 can preferably bear directly against the first and second disk 54 and 56, respectively. Alternatively, the first or second spring 58, 60 can preferably be in direct contact with the first or second insulation jacket 16, so that an axial end face of the first or second spring 58, 60 forms the first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52.

[0055] In the proximal image, in particular only a first or second insulation sheath 16 is ever used. Fig. 6 shows an exploded view (viewed from left to right) of the insulation jacket 16 with the first (smaller) diameter, the second disk 56 (forming the second proximal axial stop 52), the second spring 60, the first disk 54 and the first spring 58. Fig. 7 shows an exploded view (viewed from left to right) of the insulation jacket 16 with the second (larger) diameter, the second disk 56 (forming the second proximal axial stop 52), the second spring 60, the first disk 54 and the first spring 58.

[0056] Preferably, the first spring 58 and the second spring 60 can have different spring stiffnesses. In particular, the second spring 60 can have a greater spring stiffness than the first spring.

[0057] Preferably, the first spring 58 and the second spring 60 can be arranged radially nested / one inside the other. In particular, the first spring 58 can be arranged radially inside the second spring 60.

[0058] Preferably, the first disk 54 and the second disk 56 can be axially abutting each other. In particular, the first disk 54 can be arranged proximal to the second disk 56.

[0059] Preferably, the first disk 54 and the second disk 56 can have different inner diameters. In particular, the distally arranged disk 54, 56, here the second disk 56, can have a larger inner diameter than the proximally arranged disk 54, 56, here the first disk 54, so that the respective insulating sleeve 16 can be axially passed through the distally arranged disk 54, 56, here the second disk 56, to rest axially against the proximally arranged disk 54, 56, here the first disk 54. Alternatively, the distally arranged disk 54, 56 can have a through-hole through which the respective insulating sleeve 16 can be passed to rest axially against the proximally arranged disk 54, 56.

[0060] The first and second proximal axial stops 50, 52 (i.e., the first and second disks 54, 56 and / or the first and second springs 58, 60) can preferably be arranged within a capsule-like adapter 62, which is mounted, in particular, on the instrument shaft 12. The adapter 62 can serve for the (radial) external electrical insulation of the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14. The adapter 62 can preferably be axially fixed to the instrument shaft 12.

[0061] The adapter 62 preferably has a distal stop 64 to limit distal axial movement (towards the tool 4) of the axially displaceable first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52. The axial position of the distal stop 64 can preferably be determined based on the thermal expansion behavior of the insulating sheath 16 and / or the instrument shaft 12. In particular, the axial position can be determined such that the insulating sheath 16, in its cooled state, rests axially against the first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52 (as well as a distal axial stop 80 described later) (i.e., that the insulating sheath 16 should not retract further distally due to its thermal expansion behavior than the first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52 can be pushed distally by the distal stop 64).The distal stop 64 can be formed in particular on a section of the adapter 62 extending radially inwards (especially further inwards beyond an outer circumference of the first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52).

[0062] The adapter 62 preferably has a receiving shell 66 with an insertion opening for the (axial) insertion (sliding in / inserting) of the first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52, in particular the first or second disc 54, 56 and / or the first or second spring 58, 60. The insertion opening can, in particular, have a larger outer diameter than the first or second proximal axial stop 50, 52, in particular than the first or second disc 54, 56 and / or the first or second spring 58, 60. The insertion opening can preferably be formed on a distal side of the adapter 62.

[0063] The adapter 62 preferably has a distal opening 68, the outer diameter of which is substantially the same as that of the insulating sleeve 16 (or slightly larger to ensure axial displacement of the insulating sleeve 16), through which the insulating sleeve 16 (as well as the instrument shaft 12 and / or the push / pull rod 14) is or can be axially guided. Alternatively, the distal opening 68 can be substantially the same size as the outer diameter of the instrument shaft 12 if the insulating sleeve 16 extends through the through-hole to contact the distally arranged disk 54, 56, here the first disk 54.

[0064] The adapter 62 has a cap 70, preferably formed separately from the receiving shell 66, which can be attached to the receiving shell 66 from the distal side, in particular by screwing it on. The cap 70 can preferably form the distal stop 64 directly / integrally. The adapter 62 can preferably have an axial cover 72, which closes the insertion opening on the receiving shell 66 and forms the distal opening 68 on its inner circumference (diameter) (directly / integrally). The axial cover 72 can preferably be formed by the first disk 54 or the second disk 56, in particular by the proximally arranged disk 54, 56, here the second disk 56. Alternatively, the distal opening 68 (direct / integral) can be formed on an inner circumference ( / diameter) of the cap 70 if the insulating sheath 16 extends through a through-hole in the cap 70 to contact the distally arranged disk 54, 56, here the first disk 54.

[0065] Fig. 8 Figure 1 shows a third embodiment of the design of the proximal receptacle for the insulation jacket 16. The proximal receptacle according to the third embodiment can be used universally for (three) insulation jackets 16 of different diameters. The design of the proximal receptacle according to the third embodiment is essentially the same as that of the second embodiment. In addition, a third proximal axial stop 74 is provided, which is formed by a third disk 76 and is axially biased in a distal direction by a third spring 78. The three disks 54, 56, 76 are axially abutting one another. The three springs 58, 60, 78 are arranged radially nested.

[0066] Figures 9 to 11 Figures 1 and 2 show different embodiments of a distal section of the insulating jacket 16 and a distal receptacle of the insulating jacket 16.

[0067] On the instrument 2, in particular on the instrument shaft 12 (or a component connected thereto in a translationally fixed manner), a distal axial stop 80 is formed to limit a distally directed axial movement (towards the tool 4) of the insulating sheath 16. The distal axial stop 80 can be axially fixed to the instrument shaft 12, in particular axially fixed to the instrument shaft 12 or formed on the instrument shaft 12. Fig. 9 The insulation jacket 16 lies with the first (smaller) diameter, in Fig. 10 The insulating sheath 16, whose diameter tapers at its distal end from the second (larger) diameter to the first (smaller) diameter, lies in Fig. 11 The insulation jacket 16 with the second (larger) diameter rests against the distal axial stop 80.

[0068] Fig. 12Figure 8 shows a longitudinal section of the handle 8, which serves to further explain the design of the transmission 24. As described above, the transmission 24 is designed to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 into the translational movement of the transmission, in particular the longitudinal movement of the push-pull rod 14. This means that the transmission 24 couples the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 (actuated by manual actuation) with the longitudinal movement of the push-pull rod 14 (and thus (indirectly) with the actuation of the tool 4 or the pivoting movement of the tool arms 10).

[0069] The actuating lever pivot axis, about which the actuating lever 22 is rotatably connected to the gearbox housing 20, is arranged, in particular, between the translational axis of the translational movement of the transmission, especially the shaft axis (i.e., the longitudinal axis of the instrument shaft 12 or the push / pull rod 14), and a proximal end region of the actuating lever 22 (i.e., the point of application of the actuating force). In other words, the actuating lever pivot axis (when the instrument 2 is used in the vertical direction) is located below the shaft axis.

[0070] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission 24 is designed such that a pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 towards the handle element 21 is transformed into a translational movement of the transmission 14 in a proximal direction. That is, the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 towards the handle element 21 (the actuation of the actuating lever 22) is converted into a proximally directed longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14 (a pulling movement of the push / pull rod 14).

[0071] In particular, the transmission 24 is designed in two or more parts. Preferably, the transmission 24 forms a power transmission cable (from the actuating lever 22 to the transmission (pull / push rod 14)).

[0072] The power transmission cable has a first rotating part (or actuating lever) 82. The first rotating part 82 is in operative engagement with the actuating lever 22. This means that the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 is coupled to a rotation of the first rotating part 82. The first rotating part 82 is pivotally connected to the gearbox housing 20 about a first axis of rotation. The first axis of rotation is, in particular, transverse or perpendicular to the shaft axis. The first rotating part 82 is, in particular, designed separately from the actuating lever 22, but can alternatively also be formed on it (i.e., on a section of the actuating lever 22), even though this is not shown.

[0073] The power transmission cable has a second rotating part (receiving element / closing element) 84. The second rotating part 84 is engaged with the first rotating part 82 in a reversal of rotation, preferably in a gear mesh. This means that the rotation of the first rotating part 82 is coupled to a rotation of the second rotating part 84, and the first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84 rotate in opposite directions. The second rotating part 84 is pivotally connected to the gearbox housing 20 about a second axis of rotation. The second axis of rotation is, in particular, transverse or perpendicular to the shaft axis. The second axis of rotation is preferably offset parallel to the first axis of rotation. The second rotating part 84 preferably has a coupling section 86 for the transmission (pull / push rod 14). The coupling section 86 is, in particular, engaged with the transmission (pull / push rod 14) or can be brought into engagement with it.This means that the rotation of the second rotating part 84 is coupled or can be coupled via the coupling section 86 with the translational movement of the transmission, in particular the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14.

[0074] The first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84 can have teeth that mesh with each other. The gearing can, for example, be involute gearing. Due to the meshing, the first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84 rotate in opposite directions. As a result, the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 in the actuating direction causes the longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14 in the pulling direction, and the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 in the return direction causes (forces / actuates) the longitudinal movement of the push / pull rod 14 in the pushing direction.

[0075] Preferably, the instrument shaft 12, in its coupled state, can serve as a stop for the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22, i.e., as a pivoting limit for the actuating lever 22, or as a rotation limit for the first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84, or as a translation limit for the transmission, in particular as a longitudinal limit for the push / pull rod 14. This means that the actuating lever 22 can pivot (only) within a pivoting range, preferably limited on both sides, or that the first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84 can pivot (only) within a rotational range, preferably limited on both sides, or that the transmission (push / pull rod 14) can move longitudinally (only) within a translational range, preferably limited on both sides (longitudinal range / working range), i.e., has a maximum stroke of longitudinal movement.Through the coupling between the transmission (pull / push rod 14) and the gearbox 24 (in particular the second rotating part 82), the power transmission within the gearbox 24 (in particular the second rotating part 82 and the first rotating part 82) and the coupling between the gearbox 24 (in particular the first rotating part 82) and the actuating lever 22, the stop on the instrument shaft 12 can serve for all coupled (or couplingable) movements.

[0076] Figs. 13 and 14 show end positions of the translation range / working range of the transmission in which the tool 4 is fully open or closed.

[0077] Preferably, the gear unit 24 can have a gear ratio of 1:1. In particular, the teeth of the first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84 can be arranged on the same diameter. Alternatively, the teeth of the first rotating part 82 and the second rotating part 84 could be arranged on different diameters to achieve a reduction or a gear ratio, although this is not shown.

[0078] Preferably, the teeth of the first turned part 82 and / or the teeth of the second turned part 84 can be formed (only) circumferentially in sections, i.e., not over the entire circumference. The number of teeth of the first turned part 82 and / or the second turned part 84, i.e., the dimensioning of the circumferential sectioning, can be determined, preferably depending on the maximum stroke of the longitudinal movement / the limited longitudinal range of the tension / compression rod 14. In particular, the first turned part 82 and / or the second turned part 84 can have two to five teeth, preferably two, three, or four teeth. Alternatively, the teeth of the first turned part 82 and / or the second turned part 84 could be formed over the entire circumference, although this is not shown.

[0079] Preferably, the coupling section 86 of the second rotating part 84 can be designed as an axially undercut recess 88 into which the transmission (pull / push rod 14) can engage or does engage axially to couple the rotation of the second rotating part 84 with the translational movement (longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14). For this purpose, the pull / push rod 14 can have a radial thickening at its proximal end (end region), in particular in the form of a ball plunger 90, which engages axially in the recess 88 of the second rotating part 84.

[0080] Preferably, the gearbox 24 can have a guide pin 92 rotatably articulated to the second rotating part 84. The guide pin 92 is rotatably articulated to the second rotating part 84 about a pin axis of rotation, so that the second rotating part 84 and the guide pin 92 can be rotated relative to each other. The pin axis of rotation is preferably transverse or perpendicular to the shaft axis. Preferably, the pin axis of rotation can be offset parallel to the second axis of rotation (and / or the first axis of rotation). The guide pin 92 is longitudinally guided, i.e., displaceable (only) along its longitudinal axis, in the gearbox housing 20. The longitudinal axis of the guide pin 92 can be offset parallel to the shaft axis. Preferably, the guide pin 92 is spring-loaded in the gearbox housing 20 by means of a spring 94. Preferably, the spring preload of the guide pin 92 can be adjusted to the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 towards the handle element 21 (i.e.,counteract the activity).

[0081] Preferably, the handle 8 can have an outer handle 96 and an inner handle 98 that is fixedly connected to the outer handle 96, for example, by being screwed on. Preferably, the inner handle 98 can be covered on the outside by the outer handle 96. In particular, the second rotating part 84 can be rotatably articulated to the inner handle 98. In particular, the guide pin 92 can be rotatably articulated to the inner handle 98. In addition, the guide pin 92 can be longitudinally guided in a recess 100 in the inner handle 98.

[0082] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the gearbox 24 has a first rotating part 82 which is articulated (rotatably) to the gearbox housing 20, and an elastic overload protection element 102 which couples the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 with a rotation of the first rotating part 82 (see in particular also Figs. 15 and 16This means that the overload protection element 102 is arranged in the power flow / power transmission path between the actuating lever 22 and the first rotating part 82. The overload protection element 102 can, in particular, be designed as a spring element, preferably as a coil spring.

[0083] Preferably, the actuating lever 22 and the first rotating part 82 can be pivotally or rotatably mounted on the gearbox housing 20 about the same axis. This means that the pivot axis of the actuating lever preferably corresponds to the first axis of rotation.

[0084] Preferably, the actuating lever 22 can have a recess 104 in which the overload protection element 102 is received. In particular, the overload protection element 102 can be arranged completely within the recess 104. That is to say, the overload protection element 102 is preferably covered on the outside by the actuating lever 22.

[0085] Preferably, the overload protection element 102 can be loosely received in the recess 104, i.e., not rigidly connected to the actuating lever 22 and / or the first rotating part 82. In particular, the overload protection element 102 can be longitudinally guided, i.e., (only) displaceable or elastically compressible or bendable in the recess 104 along its longitudinal axis.

[0086] As described above, the actuating lever 22 can be pivoted in the actuating direction, i.e., in the direction from the actuating lever 22 towards the handle element 21, actuated, for example, by closing a hand of the operator / squeezing the actuating lever 22 and the handle element 21 together, and in the return direction, i.e., in the direction from the actuating lever 22 away from the handle element 21, actuated, for example, by opening a hand of the operator / squeezing the actuating lever 22 and the handle element 21 apart, i.e., actuated and returned.

[0087] The overload protection element 102 can preferably be arranged such that it acts (only / exclusively) in the actuation direction (and not in the return direction). This means that the overload protection element 102 only limits / damps / protects against overload the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 towards the handle element 21. In particular, an actuation transmission surface 106 of the actuating lever 22 and a return transmission surface 108 of the actuating lever 22 can be formed separately from each other, i.e., on different surfaces.This means that the actuating lever 22 and the first rotating part 82 are not rigidly connected to each other, and force transmission when actuating the actuating lever 22 takes place via the actuating transmission surface 106 coupled to the first rotating part 82 via the overload protection element 102, and force transmission when resetting the actuating lever 22 (directly) takes place via the coupled return transmission surface 108 in contact with the first rotating part 82.

[0088] Furthermore, the overload protection element 102 can preferably be arranged and dimensioned such that an initial force transmission (initial in the sense of actuation, i.e., starting from the pivoting movement from an unactuated position of the actuating lever 22) via the overload protection element 102 between the actuating lever 22 and the first rotating part 82 exhibits a substantially linear transmission behavior. This means that the coupling via the overload protection element 102 is virtually rigid / inelastic during the initial force transmission, particularly during force transmission within the "normal" working range (and without resistance at the tool 4).

[0089] In particular, the overload protection element 102 can preferably be arranged and dimensioned such that the overload protection element is only compressed when an actuating force greater than 200 N, preferably greater than 300 N, is applied via the actuating lever 22 (but at most only when an actuating force of 1000 N is applied via the actuating lever 22).

[0090] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the instrument shaft 12 can be coupled or connectable to the handle 8 and, in the coupled state, serve as a stop for the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22 (and the components coupled to it in the power transmission cable). This means that, in the coupled state, the instrument shaft 12 serves as a pivoting limit for the actuating lever 22, as well as a translational limit for the transmission or a longitudinal limit for the push / pull rod 14, and thus as a travel limit for the tool 4. This also means that, in a decoupled state of the instrument shaft 12, the stop function for the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 22, as well as the translational limit for the transmission or the longitudinal limit for the push / pull rod 14, and thus the travel limit for the tool 4, are eliminated, so that the movably guided or articulated components of the power transmission cable of the gearbox 24 or 8 are free to move freely.of instrument 2 can move freely (with regard to their degree of freedom / their possible movement due to appropriate storage / receipt or attachment).

[0091] The instrument shaft 12 can serve as a stop in such a way that decoupling of the transmission (pull / push rod 14) from the gearbox 24 is only possible when the instrument shaft 12 is decoupled from the handle 8, due to the elimination of its stop function. This means that decoupling of the transmission (pull / push rod 14) from the gearbox 24 is blocked when the instrument shaft 12 is coupled to the handle 8, due to its stop function.

[0092] As described above, the stop formed by the instrument shaft 12 can preferably be designed as an axial stop limiting the translational movement of the transmission (or the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14), particularly on both sides.

[0093] For example, the stop can be formed by the transmission (pull / push rod 14) having a pin 110 which is received in a cam 112 on the instrument shaft 12, so that when the pin 110 is against the cam edge, further translational movement (in the direction of the cam edge) is prevented (cf. Fig. 18 Preferably, the stop can be formed at a distal end region of the instrument shaft 12.

[0094] Preferably, the transmission 24 can have a second rotating part 84 which is operatively connected to the actuating lever 22, the rotation of which can be coupled to or is coupled to the translational movement of the transmission (or the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14) via a (first) axial positive locking connection. The first axial positive locking connection is formed in particular by the axially undercut recess 88 in the second rotating part 84, into which the transmission, in particular the ball plunger 90 of the pull / push rod 14 (in the coupled state of the instrument shaft 12 and thus of the pull / push rod 14), engages axially undercutting.

[0095] Preferably, the transmission (pull-push rod 14) can be translationally displaceable, in particular longitudinally movable, to such an extent in the decoupled state of the instrument shaft 12, and (due to the coupling between the transmission and the second rotating part 84 or the gear 24) the second rotating part 84 can, in particular, be rotatable in the decoupled state of the instrument shaft (12) to such an extent that the axial positive locking connection between the transmission and the second rotating part 84 can be released. This position of the second rotating part 84 is hereinafter also referred to as a disassembly position of the second rotating part 84 or as the loading position of the instrument 2 (see in particular Fig. 17 In particular, the transmission (pull / push rod 14) (together with the instrument shaft 12 or the entire shaft assembly 6) can be pulled in the distal direction (out of the handle 8).

[0096] Furthermore, the second rotating part 84 can be spring-loaded and held in the handle 8, in particular in the gearbox housing 20. In particular, a spring preload on the second rotating part 84 can press the second rotating part 84 into the disassembly position, in which the first axial positive-locking connection between the transmission (pull / push rod 14) and the second rotating part 84 can be released. The spring preload can be realized, in particular, by means of the spring 94 that preloads the guide pin 92. The disassembly position can, in particular, correspond to an unactuated, extended position of the actuating lever 22, i.e., a position in which the actuating lever 22 is positioned further away from the handle element 21 than in the unactuated position.

[0097] In particular, the instrument shaft 12 can be axially fixed to the handle 8 in the coupled state and axially displaceable from the handle 8 in the decoupled state. This means that a coupling between the instrument shaft 12 and the handle 8 corresponds in particular to an axially fixed connection.

[0098] As described above, the instrument 2 or the handle 8 preferably has a disassembly button 28, the actuation (pressing) of which allows the shaft assembly 6 / instrument shaft 12 and the handle 8 to be disassembled, i.e., the shaft assembly 6 / instrument shaft 12 to be decoupled from the handle 8. The disassembly button 28 can, in particular, be manually actuated. By actuating the disassembly button 28, the instrument shaft 12 can be axially decoupled from the handle 8. This means that the disassembly button 28 can lock axial displacement of the instrument shaft 12 relative to the handle 8. In other words, when the disassembly button 28 is actuated, the instrument shaft 12 and the handle can be freely axially displaced relative to each other, and when the disassembly button 28 is not actuated, they are axially connected.

[0099] Preferably, the disassembly button 28 can have a locking slide 114 that is longitudinally displaceable within the handle 8, the longitudinal axis of which corresponds in particular to a radial direction of the instrument shaft 12. This means that the locking slide 114 is displaceable transversely or perpendicular to the shaft axis. The locking slide 114 can preferably be coupled to or connected to the instrument shaft 12 via a second axial positive-locking connection. This second axial positive-locking connection can preferably be released by a longitudinal displacement of the disassembly button 28 (relative to the handle 8).

[0100] In particular, the locking slide 114 can be spring-loaded and held in the handle. The (second) axial positive locking connection can preferably be released against a spring preload of the locking slide 114. This means that a spring preload of a spring 116 pushes the locking slide 114 into an unactuated position or into axial positive engagement with the instrument shaft 12.

[0101] For example, the second axial positive locking connection can be formed by an elongated slot-like cam 118 formed in the locking slide 114, with which the instrument shaft 12 (when the disassembly button 28 is actuated) is not in axial positive engagement and can therefore be guided axially through the cam 118 and (when the disassembly button 28 is not actuated) is in axial positive engagement and can therefore not be moved axially to the cam 118 (and thus to the handle 8). For this purpose, the instrument shaft 12 may preferably have a radial groove 120 (approximately circumferential) into which an end region / cam edge of the cam 118 engages in the unactuated position of the disassembly button 28 (and thereby prevents an axial movement of the instrument shaft 12 (in the direction through the cam)) and is received in a central region / cam center of the cam 118 in an actuated position ( / longitudinally displaced position) of the disassembly button 28 (cf. Fig. 19 ).

Claims

1. A surgical pistol-grip handle (8) of or for a surgical instrument (2), in particular an electrosurgical instrument (2) of the minimally invasive shaft design, with - a gearing housing (20) extending from the distal in the proximal direction; - a stationary handle element (21) extending at an angle to the distal-proximal direction and (firmly) configured at or fixed to a proximal end portion of the gearing housing (20); - an actuating lever (22) preferably being finger-guidable, pivotably hinged to the gearing housing (20), and in particular being manually actuatable; and - a gearing (24) housed in the gearing housing (20) and configured to transmit a pivoting movement of the actuating lever (22) into a translational movement, preferably a longitudinal movement, of a transmission (14), preferably of a pull / push rod (14) mounted within an instrument shaft (12) distally coupled or coupleable to the pistol-grip handle (8), characterized in that the gearing (24) comprises a rotating part (82) rotatably hinged to the gearing housing (20) and an elastic overload protection element (102) coupling the pivoting movement of the actuating lever (22) to a rotation of the rotating part (82).

2. The grip handle (8) according to claim 1, characterized in that power transmission between the actuating lever (22) and the rotating part (82) takes place directly via the overload protection element (102).

3. The grip handle (8) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that power transmission between the actuating lever (22) and the rotating part (82) takes place exclusively via the overload protection element (102).

4. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the rotating part (82) is rotatably mounted relative to the actuating lever (22).

5. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the stationary handle element (21) is arranged proximally to the actuating lever (22).

6. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the stationary handle element (21) is configured without a grip opening, in particular without a finger receptacle opening and / or without a thumb receptacle opening.

7. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the actuating lever (22) and the rotating part (82) are hinged to the gearing housing (20) so as to be rotatable about the same axis.

8. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the overload protection element (102) is configured as a spring element, in particular as a coil spring.

9. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the actuating lever (22) comprises a recess (104) in which the overload protection element (102) is accommodated.

10. The grip handle (8) according to claim 9, characterized in that the overload protection element (102) is arranged completely within the recess (104) of the actuating lever (22) and is preferably covered on the outside by the actuating lever (22).

11. The grip handle (8) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the overload protection element (102) is loosely received in the recess (104).

12. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the actuating lever (22) can be pivoted in an actuation direction toward the handle element (21), for example by pressing the actuating lever (22) and handle element (21) together, and away from the handle element (21), for example by pressing the actuating lever (22) and handle element (21) apart, wherein the overload protection element (102) is arranged such that it only acts in the actuation direction.

13. The grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the overload protection element (102) is arranged and dimensioned in such a way that an initial power transmission via the overload protection element (102) between the actuating lever (22) and the rotating part (82) has a substantially linear transmission behavior.

14. The grip handle (8) according to claim 13, characterized in that the overload protection element (102) is arranged and dimensioned in such a way that the overload protection element (102) is only compressed from an actuating force greater than 200 N, preferably greater than 300 N, applied via the actuating lever (22).

15. A surgical instrument (2), in particular electrosurgical instrument (2) of minimally invasive shaft design, with a pistol-grip handle (8) according to one of claims 1 to 14.