Bipolar electrosurgical tool

Abstract

A bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) for a bipolar electrosurgical instrument (10) comprises a first jaw-forming part (30) with a first gripping surface (31), a second jaw-forming part (40) with a second gripping surface (41) facing the first gripping surface (31), a joint (50) which allows pivoting movement of the second jaw-forming part (40) relative to the first jaw-forming part (30), a first electrode (63) on the first jaw-forming part (30), and a second electrode (64) on the first jaw-forming part (30), which is electrically isolated from the first electrode (63). No electrode is disposed on the second jaw-forming part (40).

Description

Title of the invention: Bipolar electrosurgical tool

[0001] The present invention relates to a bipolar electrosurgical tool and a bipolar electrosurgical instrument.

[0002] Prevention of hemorrhage is important in all surgical operations. In microinvasive procedures, hemorrhage presents particular risks, as it can compromise the vision of the operating personnel and stopping hemorrhage can be more difficult than in open surgery. The safe sealing of blood vessels - for example before they are severed - is therefore a constant subject of research and development in medical technology. The same applies to the safe sealing of other hollow organs.

[0003] In electrosurgery, electrical currents heat tissue in order to coagulate it. This is often also referred to as welding or fusion. For this purpose, colloidal materials, in particular, are transformed from a solution state into a gel state. However, when heating to too high a temperature, the affected tissue can be destroyed to such an extent that a secure and lasting seal and rapid healing are no longer guaranteed.

[0004] The success of an electrosurgical procedure depends on the type and condition of the tissue, the current density and its dependence on the location, the duration of current flow, the temperature reached and their dependence on the location, the mechanical pressure and other parameters.

[0005] The aim of improving electrosurgical tools and instruments is to achieve a process that can be controlled or regulated as precisely as possible with heating of defined areas to temperatures that are as defined as possible and thus to achieve as predictable a quality as possible of vessel sealing or, more generally, of tissue modification and to prevent tissue from adhering to the tool or instrument. Furthermore, electrosurgical tools must be as small as possible, but also as mechanically robust as possible, and due to their shape also be suitable for preparation.

[0006] In EP 1 632 192 A1, an instrument for occluding vessels is described, which comprises two gripping jaws movable relative to each other (paragraphs

[0011] ,

[0018] ). Each gripping jaw has a pair of electrically conductive vessel occluding surfaces spaced apart from each other, which extend along the gripping jaw (ibid.). Each pair of vessel occluding surfaces is connected to an electrosurgical energy source (ibid.). The gripping jaws may be configured in a mirrored or non-mirrored manner (paragraphs

[0059] ,

[0060] ,

[0066] ,

[0067] ).

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an improved bipolar electrosurgical tool and an improved bipolar electrosurgical instrument.

[0008] This objective is achieved by the objects of the independent claims.

[0009] Developments are mentioned in the dependent claims.

[0010] A bipolar electrosurgical tool for a bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprises a first jaw portion with a first gripping surface, a second jaw portion with a second gripping surface facing the first gripping surface, a joint, which allows pivoting movement of the second jaw portion relative to the first jaw portion, a first electrode on the first jaw portion and a second electrode on the first jaw portion, which is electrically insulated from the first electrode.

[0011] A bipolar electrosurgical tool for a bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprises a first jaw portion with a first gripping surface, a second jaw portion with a second gripping surface facing the first gripping surface, a joint, which allows pivoting movement of the second jaw portion relative to the first jaw portion, a first electrode on the first jaw portion and a second electrode on the first jaw portion or on the second jaw portion, which is electrically insulated from the first electrode, the second gripping surface being electrically insulating as long as it faces the first electrode.

[0012] In other words, the first electrode is not faced - not even partially or overlapping - by any conductive area or partial area of ​​the second gripping surface. The facing arrangement relates in particular to a closed configuration of the bipolar electrosurgical tool, in which the gripping surfaces on the jaw parts have the smallest possible distance and face each other at a small distance or touch each other partially or completely. A first point on a first surface faces a second point on a second surface, if it lies on a surface normal of the second surface at the second point.In the case of one or two curved gripping surfaces, in particular, a flat surface is used as the reference surface to which the surface normal relates, which is parallel to the pivot axis defined by the joint and parallel to the main extension directions of the jaw parts.

[0013] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, either the second electrode is disposed on the first jaw portion and the second gripping surface is electrically insulating as long as it faces the second electrode; or the second electrode is disposed on the second jaw portion jaw and the first gripping surface is electrically insulating as long as it faces the second electrode.

[0014] Either the first electrode is arranged on the first jaw-forming part, and the first electrode is not facing - not even partially or overlapping - any conductive area or partial area of ​​the second gripping surface. Or the first electrode is arranged on the second jaw-forming part, and the first electrode is not facing - not even partially or overlapping - any conductive area or partial area of ​​the first gripping surface.

[0015] A bipolar electrosurgical tool for a bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprises a first jaw portion with a first gripping surface, a second jaw portion with a second gripping surface facing the first gripping surface, a joint, which allows pivoting movement of the second jaw portion relative to the first jaw portion, a first electrode on the first jaw portion and a second electrode on the first jaw portion, which is electrically insulated from the first electrode, no electrode being disposed on the second jaw portion.

[0016] A bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, is in particular intended and designed for the obturation of a hollow organ or for the sealing of tissue. The obturation of a hollow organ or the sealing of other tissue on the one hand and the severing or cutting of a hollow organ on the other hand require different properties, in particular different geometries of a bipolar electrosurgical tool. It is possible, under certain conditions also with a bipolar electrosurgical tool intended and designed for cutting, that a hollow organ can be obturated or that other tissue can be sealed and, under certain conditions also with a bipolar electrosurgical tool intended and designed for the obturation of a hollow organ or the sealing of other tissue, that a hollow organ can be severed.The reliability strictly necessary in medicine from the point of view of patient safety is, however, only achievable if each tool is used exclusively for the purpose for which it is intended and designed. Medical personnel who use a tool for tissue sectioning that is designed for the obturation of a hollow organ or the sealing of other tissue, or vice versa, act outside the legal authorization concerning medical devices and not only endanger the health of the patient in this respect, but also expose themselves to a considerable liability risk.

[0017] The bipolar electrosurgical instrument is in particular part of a microinvasive instrument (e.g. for laparoscopy) or is intended and designed to form together with one or more other components a microinvasive instrument or another electrosurgical instrument. The bipolar electrosurgical tool is by example mechanically permanently connected to a distal end of a shaft of an instrument, i.e. not reversibly and non-destructively separable from the shaft without a tool or not reversibly and non-destructively separable from the shaft with the means available to medical personnel. Alternatively, the bipolar electrosurgical instrument may be removably connected to a distal end of a shaft of an instrument, i.e. it may be removably and non-destructively and repeatedly connected to the means available to medical personnel. In both cases, a part of the bipolar electrosurgical tool in particular is connected or may be connected in a rigid mechanical manner to the distal end of the shaft.

[0018] The first gripping surface on the first jaw portion is in particular formed by the entire surface area facing the second jaw portion of the first jaw portion. The second gripping surface on the second jaw portion is in particular formed by the entire surface area facing the first jaw portion of the second jaw portion. The two gripping surfaces may be smooth or substantially smooth, flat or curved, and may have a profile facilitating secure gripping and holding and / or grooves, bars, concave or convex areas. The bipolar electrosurgical tool is in particular designed such that the two gripping surfaces can touch each other punctually, linearly or flatly, if no tissue is arranged between the gripping surfaces.

[0019] The joint is in particular arranged between the proximal end of the second jaw part and the proximal end of the first jaw part. The joint defines a pivot axis, which is in particular orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of a rod connected in the intended manner to the bipolar electrosurgical tool and / or orthogonal to the directions of maximum extension of the jaw parts. The pivot axis defined by the joint is, during the intended use, in particular parallel or substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of a hollow organ to be closed by means of the bipolar electrosurgical tool and thus, for example, to the direction of blood circulation in a blood vessel to be closed.

[0020] The first electrode and the second electrode on the first jaw portion are in particular respectively strip-shaped and extend next to each other, parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the first jaw portion. The current flowing between the first electrode and the second electrode through tissue that is held between the jaw portions therefore flows substantially parallel to the gripping surfaces, orthogonally to the longitudinal directions of the jaw portions and the electrodes, and thus substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of a hollow organ held by the bipolar electrosurgical tool and for example to the direction of blood flow of a blood vessel held by the bipolar electrosurgical tool. The resulting distribution of current density in the tissue held by the bipolar electrosurgical tool may facilitate or enable a concentration of tissue heating on the desired area and an improvement in the achieved or achievable quality of the obturation of a hollow organ.

[0021] An arrangement of electrodes exclusively on the first jaw part can significantly simplify the construction and manufacture of the second jaw part. The construction and manufacture of the joint can also be simplified because no electrically conductive supply line, however electrically insulated from other components, to an electrode on the second jaw part is required. Furthermore, the risk of tissue adhering to the second jaw part is significantly reduced, whereby the application of the bipolar electrosurgical tool can be simpler and safer. A simpler structure of the second jaw part can furthermore allow a more rigid mechanical construction and thus the transmission of greater forces to tissue held by means of the bipolar electrosurgical tool.

[0022] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, in particular, the first jaw portion is or can be rigidly mechanically connected to a distal end of a shaft of an electrosurgical instrument.

[0023] The first jaw part is in particular designed as a rigid unit per se with a proximal end of the bipolar electrosurgical tool, in which the proximal end of the bipolar electrosurgical tool is connected or can be connected in a mechanically rigid manner to a distal end of a shaft. During the intended use of the bipolar electrosurgical tool, only the second jaw part is therefore pivoted relative to the instrument shaft. The first jaw part remains stationary relative to the instrument shaft in a position extending the shaft, in particular in a straight line.

[0024] The mechanically rigid connection of the first jaw portion to the rod avoids an electrical power supply line passing through a joint. Thus, elastic electrical lines or friction contacts and the risks and disadvantages that accompany them can be avoided. Among the avoided risks and disadvantages of an electrical power supply line via an elastic electrical line or a friction contact are material fatigue, abrasion, corrosion and contact resistances.

[0025] Furthermore, by mechanically rigidly connecting the first jaw portion to the distal end of a rod, a mechanically more robust and simpler construction can be enabled. The elimination of a joint between the first part forming jaw and the rod can, thanks to a simplified construction, also allow a more complete and simpler cleaning.

[0026] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the entire second gripping surface is in particular designed to be electrically insulating.

[0027] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the entire surface of the second jaw portion is in particular designed to be electrically insulating.

[0028] An electrically insulating configuration of the entire second gripping surface on the second jaw portion or the entire outer surface of the second jaw portion may reduce the risk of unwanted current paths forming on the second jaw portion, which may threaten the success of an electrosurgical procedure.

[0029] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, in particular, one or more electrically insulating areas or sections of the first jaw portion and / or the second jaw portion are in particular formed partly or entirely from ceramic, glass, plastic, an elastomer or a coated, in particular electrically insulating, metal.

[0030] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, further comprises a groove in the first gripping surface.

[0031] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, further comprises a groove in the second gripping surface.

[0032] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, further comprises a cutting device, which is movable between the first jaw portion and the second jaw portion, for mechanically severing tissue held between the first jaw portion and the second jaw portion.

[0033] The cutting device is in particular movable in the longitudinal direction of the jaw parts. The edges extending parallel to the intended direction of movement of the cutting device can engage in a groove in the first gripping surface and / or in a groove in the second gripping surface and be mechanically guided in this way. A blade at the distal end of the cutting device can be arranged straight and thus orthogonally to the intended direction of movement or obliquely to it, in order to facilitate tissue severing. Alternatively, the blade can be curved or bent, in particular extending at least partly obliquely, i.e. not orthogonally to the intended direction of movement. The blade of the cutting device extends in particular substantially from the first jaw-forming part towards the second jaw-forming part.

[0034] A bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, particularly comprises a cutting wire or a cutting wire loop as a monopolar or bipolar electrosurgical cutting device, which is disposed between the first jaw portion and the second jaw portion, for electrosurgical severing of tissue held between the first jaw portion and the second jaw portion.

[0035] The cutting wire or the cutting wire loop is in particular movable relative to the two jaw parts. The cutting wire or the cutting wire loop is in particular movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the jaw parts. Alternatively or additionally, the cutting wire or the cutting wire loop may be movable in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the closed jaw parts.

[0036] For example, the cutting wire is rigid at a distal end of a jaw portion, i.e. fixed non-movably in its longitudinal direction, and in a rest position adopts an arcuate, round, or angular V- or U-shaped shape. Thus, the cutting wire can rest on a concave surface area of ​​the jaw portion or be concealed partly or entirely in a groove in a concave surface area of ​​the jaw portion. By mechanical traction on a proximal area of ​​the cutting wire, the cutting wire can be tensioned and thus be transformed from its V- or U-shape into a straight shape until it rests, or almost so, on the jaw portion facing it. Thus, it can electrosurgically sever tissue between the jaw portions.

[0037] The electrosurgical cutting device is in particular designed as a monopolar electrosurgical cutting device, in which a large-surface neutral electrode outside the patient's body closes the electrical circuit. Alternatively or additionally, the first electrode and / or the second electrode may be used as a counter electrode.

[0038] A cutting device between the jaw parts can, after electrosurgical sealing of a blood vessel or other hollow organ, allow its severance. Sealing and severance can therefore be carried out successively in a particularly safe and rapid manner.

[0039] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, at least either the first electrode, the second electrode, an electrically insulating surface area of ​​the first jaw portion, or the second gripping surface of the second jaw portion, is in particular provided in part or entirely with a coating reducing mechanical adhesion of tissue.

[0040] A coating that reduces or prevents tissue adhesion can make handling and application of the bipolar electrosurgical tool more reliable and safer.

[0041] The first electrode and the second electrode are in particular surface areas on electrode structural parts which are formed from a material whose thermal conductivity is as high as possible, in particular greater than 10 Wm 'K 1 (e.g. steel) or greater than 100 Wm 'K 1 (e.g. silver, gold or an electrically conductive coated or doped diamond).

[0042] Good heat dissipation from the electrode by means of a highly thermally conductive electrode structural part can act against heating of tissue resting on the electrode and adhesion caused thereby of the tissue to the electrode.

[0043] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the first electrode and the second electrode are arranged in particular next to each other and parallel to each other on the first gripping surface.

[0044] The first electrode and the second electrode are in particular, respectively, substantially strip-shaped or rectangular and narrow and extend parallel to the main extension direction of the first jaw part. The arrangement of the two electrodes next to each other and parallel to each other can enable a current flow direction in the tissue of a hollow organ to be electrosurgically sealed parallel to the first gripping surface and orthogonal to the cross-section of the hollow organ. The current density distributions thus achievable can enable particularly rapid and particularly reliable sealing of the hollow organ, in particular without tissue adhering to the electrodes.

[0045] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the first electrode and the second electrode are in particular arranged on or near mutually opposite longitudinal edges of the first gripping surface, the first gripping surface being entirely designed to be electrically insulating between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0046] The longitudinal edges are the edge sections of the gripping surface which extend parallel to each other and to the main extension direction of the first jaw part, and thus orthogonally to the pivot axis. The electrodes are either arranged directly on the longitudinal edges of the gripping surface, thus forming the longitudinal edges of the gripping surface, or have distances to the longitudinal edges of the first gripping surface which are less or substantially less (less than one half or one third or one fifth or one tenth) than the widths of the electrodes.

[0047] The arrangement of the electrodes on or near the longitudinal edges of the first gripping surface and the fully electrically insulating configuration of the gripping surface between the electrodes allows a large distance between the electrodes, so that the current passing through and heating the tissue can flow over a comparatively large distance in the tissue. Thus, a hollow organ can be sealed in a comparatively wide band or other tissue can be sealed in a comparatively wide band.

[0048] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, in intended use, the surface area of ​​the first electrode and the surface area of ​​the second electrode are in particular respectively greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​tissue gripped or crushed in the intended manner between the jaw portions during the intended electrosurgical treatment.

[0049] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, in intended use, the width of the first strip-shaped electrode and the width of the second strip-shaped electrode are in particular respectively greater than the thickness of tissue gripped or crushed in the intended manner between the jaw portions during the intended electrosurgical treatment.

[0050] The intended use of the bipolar electrosurgical tool and the maximum cross-sectional areas and thicknesses of tissue gripped and crushed in this regard in the intended manner between the jaw parts are in particular clearly defined by the authorization procedure and the specification of the bipolar electrosurgical tool.

[0051] When the areas or widths of the two electrodes are greater or significantly greater (in particular by at least 20% or 50% or by a factor of 2, 3, 5, 10 or 20) than the cross-sectional area or thickness of the gripped and / or crushed tissue, the current density in the gripped and crushed tissue is higher by a corresponding factor than that in the tissue resting on the electrodes. Heating and modification of the tissue can therefore be largely limited to the gripped and crushed area. Because tissue resting on the electrodes is neither heated nor modified, or is at most only slightly heated, adhesion of tissue to the electrodes can also be prevented or significantly reduced.

[0052] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the width of the first strip-shaped electrode and the width of the second strip-shaped electrode are in particular respectively in the range of 0.3 mm to 5 mm.

[0053] In the intended use of a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the thickness of tissue gripped or crushed in the intended manner between the jaw portions during the intended electrosurgical treatment is particularly in the range of 0.05 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0054] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, comprises furthermore a convex surface area between the first electrode and the second electrode, which projects towards the second jaw-forming part.

[0055] The convex surface area is, for example, bar-shaped or bead-shaped with a substantially rectangular, trapezoidal or rounded cross-section. The convex surface area is in particular designed to be electrically insulating.

[0056] The convex surface area may allow compression or crushing of tissue in an area between the electrodes. As a result, the current density in the compressed or crushed area may be significantly higher than on the electrodes. As a result, the electrosurgical effect on the area of ​​tissue compressed or crushed by the convex surface area may be limited and adhesion of tissue to the electrodes may be prevented or reduced.

[0057] The geometry of the convex surface area substantially defines a sealing zone or sealing band in which, due to the compression of the tissue, the current density is so high and as a result the tissue is heated to such an extent that it is fused or welded or sealed. The width of the convex surface area or a plateau of the convex surface area substantially defines the width of this sealing zone. In the frequent case of mechanical or electrosurgical sectioning of the tissue after fusion or welding or sealing, a width of the sealing zone on each side of the subsequent cut of the order of magnitude 1 mm (in particular between 0.8 mm and 1.2 mm) has proven effective, especially if the tissue is a blood vessel or other hollow organ which is to be reliably sealed.The total width of the convex surface area or of a plateau of the convex surface area is thus in particular between 1.6 mm and 2.4 mm.

[0058] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, further comprises a resilient zone on the first gripping surface between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0059] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area is in particular formed by an elastic structural part.

[0060] An elastic zone on the first gripping surface and in particular an elastic convex surface zone between the electrodes can allow elastic adaptation to tissue gripped or crushed by means of the tool. This can promote uniform pressure distribution in the tissue and prevent local overloading of the tissue.

[0061] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area is in particular formed by a structural part, which comprises silicone, an elastomer or another plastic material, ceramic, glass or coated metal, in particular coated in an electrically insulating manner.

[0062] The convex surface zone is in particular formed by a structural part in silicone (silicone rubber, silicone elastomer or silicone resin) with a Shore A hardness in the range of 60 to 80. The elastic properties of silicone are adjustable within a wide range and in a well-reproducible manner. Furthermore, silicone can have a sufficient dielectric strength of the order of magnitude of 20 kV / mm.

[0063] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area is in particular formed by a structural part, which comprises a material with lower thermal conductivity.

[0064] The thermal conductivity of the structural part forming the convex surface part is significantly less than 1 Wm 'K ', in particular less than 0.25 Wm 'K 1 and preferably at most 0.2 Wm 'K 1 or at most 0.15 Wm 'K1 or at most 0.1 Wm-'K1.

[0065] Low thermal conductivity reduces heat loss from the compressed tissue area through the convex, electrosurgically treated surface area and may thus contribute to a concentration of the electrosurgical effect on the compressed area.

[0066] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, at least either the first electrode or the second electrode is spaced from the convex surface area.

[0067] Spacing the electrodes away from the convex surface area can cause the tissue in the electrode area to have a significantly larger cross-section than in the area compressed by the convex surface area. Therefore, the current density and electrosurgical effect can be concentrated on the area compressed by the convex surface area and be significantly smaller on the electrodes. This can significantly improve the reliability and quality of the electrosurgical procedure and reduce the risk of tissue adhering to the electrodes.

[0068] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area particularly comprises a blade for mechanically severing tissue.

[0069] The convex surface area and the blade are in particular designed such that, when applying a lower predetermined first holding force, electrosurgical obturation of a hollow organ is possible, and with a higher predetermined second holding force, mechanical severance of the previously obturated hollow organ is possible.

[0070] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area is in particular designed in a roof shape.

[0071] A roof-like configuration with an edge that projects furthest toward the second jaw portion and two downwardly sloping surfaces on both sides of the edge may allow crushing of tissue such that its cross-section transverse or its thickness decreases continuously on both sides up to the edge and is minimal on the edge. This results in a current density that increases on both sides of the edge towards the edge. This current density can induce a temperature distribution that can induce, on both sides of the edge at distances from the edge that are predetermined or dependent on the respective conditions of an electrosurgical procedure, coagulation and obturation of a hollow organ and, in the area of ​​the edge, such strong heating that the tissue is severed in the area of ​​the edge.

[0072] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, further comprises a convex surface area on the second gripping surface of the second jaw portion, which projects toward the first gripping surface of the first jaw portion.

[0073] The convex surface area on the second gripping surface of the second jaw portion may have similar or identical properties, characteristics, and functions as the convex surface area described on the first gripping surface of the first jaw portion. The bipolar electrosurgical tool may either comprise a convex surface area only on the first gripping surface on the first jaw portion or only on the second gripping surface on the second jaw portion, or comprise a convex surface area respectively on both gripping surfaces on both jaw portions. When both gripping surfaces on both jaw portions respectively comprise a convex surface area, their cross-sections may be configured in mirror symmetry or differently.Furthermore, convex surface areas can be formed from structural parts of the same or different materials.

[0074] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area on the second gripping surface of the second jaw portion is in particular arranged and designed such that it cannot touch, even in the closed state of the tool, either the first electrode or the second electrode.

[0075] The area of ​​tissue compressed or crushed by the convex surface area on the second gripping surface of the second jaw part therefore does not extend as far as the electrodes. Tissue gripped and crushed by the tool can therefore be compressed less in the vicinity of the electrodes than in the area of ​​the convex surface area. Consequently, the cross-sections of the tissue in the area of ​​the electrodes are significantly larger than for the convex surface area. This results in a lower current density on the electrodes and a higher current density in the area of ​​tissue compressed by the convex surface area.

[0076] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the superficial area convex on the second gripping surface is bar-shaped or bead-shaped with a substantially rectangular, trapezoidal or rounded cross-section.

[0077] For a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the convex surface area on the second gripping surface of the second jaw portion is in particular formed by a structural portion made of an elastic material.

[0078] In particular, a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, further comprises a sensor for detecting a temperature or a mechanical pressure or a color or a luminous intensity of reflected or transmitted light or another physical quantity, in order to control or monitor or verify an electrosurgical gesture or its work result.

[0079] The sensor may be provided and designed for the detection of a light spectrum, for example a reflected or transmitted light spectrum and / or for the detection of light at one or more predetermined wavelengths or in one or more narrow wavelength ranges. Control, regulation or monitoring of an electrosurgical procedure with a sensor can significantly improve the reliability of the operation and the reproducibility of the work result.

[0080] A bipolar electrosurgical instrument comprises a shaft and a bipolar electrosurgical tool, as described herein, the bipolar electrosurgical tool being connected or connectable to a distal end of the shaft.

[0081] The bipolar electrosurgical tool is connected or can be connected, in particular in a mechanically rigid manner, to the distal end of the rod. The mechanical connection between the bipolar electrosurgical tool and the distal end of the rod can be durable, i.e. non-removable in a non-destructive manner with the means available to the medical personnel, or removable in a reversible and non-destructive manner with the means available to the medical personnel. Brief description of the figures

[0082] Hereinafter, embodiments are explained in more detail with the aid of the attached figures. It is shown:

[0083] [Fig.l] a schematic representation of a distal end of a bipolar electrosurgical instrument;

[0084] [Fig.2] another schematic representation of the distal end of the instrument bipolar electrosurgery of [Fig.l];

[0085] [Fig.3] a schematic representation of a cross-section of the bipolar electrosurgical tool of the instrument of Figures 1 and 2;

[0086] [Fig.4] a schematic representation of a distal end of another instrument bipolar electrosurgery;

[0087] [Fig.5] a schematic representation of a cross-section of another tool bipolar electrosurgery;

[0088] [Fig.6] a schematic representation of a cross-section of another tool bipolar electrosurgery;

[0089] [Fig.7] a schematic representation of a tool of another electrochemical instrument bipolar surgery;

[0090] [Fig.8] a schematic representation of a tool of another electrochemical instrument bipolar surgery;

[0091] [Fig.9] another schematic representation of the tool of [Fig.8];

[0092] [Fig. 10] a schematic representation of a cross-section of the tool of Figures 8 and 9. Description of the embodiments

[0093] [Fig.l] shows a schematic representation of a distal end 13 of a bipolar electrosurgical instrument 10. The bipolar electrosurgical instrument 10 comprises a shaft 11, which can be designed straight or curved, rigid or flexible. A proximal end of the shaft 11 is connected or can be connected to a handling device, which is not shown in [Fig.l]. A distal end 12 of the shaft 11 is permanently connected or can be connected in a releasable and non-destructive manner to a bipolar electrosurgical tool 20. The bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 forms the distal end 13 of the bipolar electrosurgical instrument 10.

[0094] The bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 comprises a first branch or jaw portion 30 with a first gripping surface 31 and a second branch or jaw portion 40 with a second gripping surface 4L. The first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw portion 30 faces the second jaw portion 40. The second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw portion 40 faces the first jaw portion 30. The proximal end of the second jaw portion 40 is pivotally connected to the remainder of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 via a joint 50. The joint 50 defines a pivot axis 58 orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 11, orthogonally to the plane of the drawing of [Fig.l] and orthogonally to the main extension directions of the jaw-forming parts 30, 40. .

[0095] Disposed in the rod 11 is a force transmission device not shown in [Fig.l], which extends from the proximal end of the rod 11 to the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20. The distal end of the force transmission device is coupled to the second jaw portion 40 such that a de placement of the force transmission device, induced on the manipulation device not shown in [Fig.l], induces a pivoting movement of the second jaw-forming part 40 around the pivot axis 58 defined by the articulation 50 relative to the distal end 12 of the rod 11 and to the first jaw-forming part 30.

[0096] In [Fig.l], the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 is shown in an open configuration. Based on the open configuration shown in [Fig.l], the second jaw portion 40 can be moved toward the first jaw portion 30. Thus, tissue can be grasped, held, or crushed between the jaw portions 30, 40.

[0097] The bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 has a groove 37 in the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw portion 30 and a groove 47 in the second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw portion 40. The two grooves 37, 47 are not visible per se in the representation of [Fig.l]. Therefore, only the contours of the grooves are suggested in [Fig.l] by dashed lines.

[0098] The bipolar electrosurgical instrument 20 comprises a scalpel 70, which can then also, when the jaw parts 30, 40 rest on each other, be moved in the grooves 37, 47. Thus, the scalpel 70 is guided by the grooves 37, 47. A part of the scalpel 70 projecting from the groove 37 into the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw part 30 is visible in [Fig. 1] and represented by a solid line. A part of the scalpel 70 concealed in the groove 37 in the first jaw part 30 is represented in [Fig. 1] by a dotted line.

[0099] The scalpel 70 is shown in [Fig.l] by dotted lines extending towards the proximal side, in order to suggest that the scalpel 70 can be moved in a controllable manner from the proximal end of the instrument 10. The mechanical coupling between a manipulation device of the instrument 10 and the scalpel 70 can, however, be effected not only by a direct extension of the structural part forming the scalpel 70 towards the proximal side, but also in another way.

[0100] The scalpel 70 comprises a blade 71, which is, in the example shown, inclined relative to the intended direction of movement of the scalpel 70. In [Fig. 1], the scalpel 70 and the blade 71 are in a position in which the scalpel 70 would have already partially severed tissue caught between closed jaw portions 30, 40. In this position, the scalpel 70 is better seen in [Fig. 1]. During the intended use of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20, however, the scalpel 70 remains in a predetermined proximal position in which the blade 71 is not exposed and cannot touch any tissue, as long as the jaw parts 30, 40 are not closed.

[0101] [Fig. 2] shows another schematic representation of the distal end 13 of the bipolar electrosurgical instrument 10 shown with the aid of [Fig. l]. The type of representation in [Fig. 2] corresponds to that of [Fig. l]. In [Fig. 2], however, the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 is shown in a configuration which deviates from the configuration shown in [Fig. l].

[0102] In the configuration shown in [Fig. 2] of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 2, the jaw portions 30, 40 are closed, the gripping surfaces 31, 41 of the jaw portions 30, 40 touch each other or rest on each other at a small distance apart. In the configuration or situation shown in [Fig. 2], the scalpel 70 is further arranged in the described predetermined proximal position in which the blade 71 is not exposed.

[0103] In the configuration or situation shown in [Fig. 2], tissue, for example a blood vessel or other hollow organ, can be caught and compressed or crushed between the jaw portions 30, 40. This can be electrosurgically modified by means of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 as described below with the aid of [Fig. 3], in order to occlude for example the hollow organ. Thereafter, the scalpel 70 can be moved from the position shown in [Fig. 2] to the distal side, in order to sever the tissue.

[0104] [Fig. 3] shows a schematic and enlarged representation of a section along the section plane III-III suggested in [Fig. 2] through the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 shown in [Fig. 2]. The section plane III-III of [Fig. 3] is orthogonal to the planes of the drawing of Figures 1 and 2 and orthogonal to a principal direction of extension of the jaw portions 30, 40.

[0105] In [Fig. 3] the respectively substantially semi-circular cross sections of the jaw parts 30, 40 are recognizable. The first jaw part 30 is formed from two structural parts 34, 35, which are mechanically connected in a durable and rigid manner, in particular by welding or gluing or in another way by material bonding. In the example shown, the first structural part 34 spaced from the first gripping surface 31 is formed from metal and the second structural part 35 forming the gripping surface 31 is formed from an electrically insulating material.

[0106] In the second structural part 35 of the first jaw-forming part 30, the groove 37 is recognizable in the cross-section already described with the aid of Figures 1 and 2.

[0107] Further, two electrode structural portions 61, 62 are incorporated into the second electrically insulating structural portion 35 adjacent to the first gripping surface 31. Surface areas cleared of the electrode structural parts 61, 62 form electrode surfaces 63, 64. The electrode structural parts 61, 62 and the electrode surfaces 63, 64 formed thereby are respectively designed substantially in a strip shape and arranged parallel to each other and to the main extension direction of the first jaw part 30.

[0108] The electrode surfaces 63, 64 allow, upon direct contact with tissue, a passage of electric current from the first electrode structural part 61 into the tissue and from the tissue into the second electrode structural part 62 or vice versa. Between the electrode structural parts 61, 62, the electric current flowing through tissue between the gripping surfaces 31, 41 flows substantially parallel to the gripping surfaces 31, 41 of the jaw parts 30, 40 and orthogonally to the main extension directions of the jaw parts 30, 40.

[0109] The electrode structural parts 61, 62 are formed from a material having the highest possible thermal conductivity, in particular greater than 10 Wm1 K 1 (e.g. steel) or greater than 100 Wm 'K1 (e.g. silver, gold or an electrically conductive coated or doped diamond). Good thermal conductivity of the electrode structural parts 61, 62 allows good heat dissipation from the electrode surfaces 63, 64. Consequently, the temperatures of the electrode surfaces 63, 64 and of tissue resting on the electrode surfaces 63, 64 remain low. This reduces the probability of tissue adhesion to the electrode surfaces 63, 64.

[0110] The second jaw-forming part 40 is also, in the example shown, formed from two structural parts 44, 45. The structural parts 44, 45 of the second jaw-forming part 40 are, in the example shown, mechanically connected to each other by form-fitting, namely by means of dovetail cross-sections. Alternatively or additionally, the structural parts 44, 45 of the second jaw-forming part 40 may be connected to each other by material bonding, for example by welding or gluing.

[0111] The groove 47 already mentioned in the second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw part 40 is exclusively formed in the second structural part 45 of the second jaw part 40. In [Fig. 3], it can be seen that the scalpel 70 with the blade 71 is guided with little play and low friction in the grooves 37, 47 in the jaw parts 30, 40.

[0112] In the example shown, the first structural part 44 of the second jaw-forming part 40 is formed from metal, the second structural part 45 of the second jaw-forming part 40 is formed from an electrical material strictly insulating. The second jaw-forming part 40 does not include any electrode.

[0113] [Fig. 4] shows a schematic representation of a distal end 13 of another bipolar electrosurgical instrument 10, which may resemble the instrument shown in Figures 1 to 3 in certain characteristics, properties and functions. The type of representation in [Fig. 4] corresponds to that in Figures 1 and 2. In particular, characteristics, properties and functions of the instrument 10 shown in [Fig. 4] are described below, from the point of view of which it differs from the instrument shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0114] The instrument 10 shown in [Fig. 4] comprises a bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 at its distal end 13, which differs from the bipolar electrosurgical tool shown in Figures 1 to 3, on the one hand due to a slightly different configuration of the environment of the joint 50, and on the other hand mainly due to the arrangement of the gripping surfaces 31, 41. In the situation shown in [Fig. 4], the gripping surfaces 31, 41 of the jaw parts 30, 40 touch each other only at the distal end of the jaw parts 30, 40. The gripping surfaces 31, 41 form a small angle of a few degrees. This has the effect that, when tissue is arranged and compressed between the gripping surfaces 31, 41, the thickness of this tissue, unlike the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, increases less sharply from the proximal side to the distal side, or is even constant.

[0115] [Fig. 5] shows a schematic representation of a section through the jaw parts 30, 40 of another bipolar electrosurgical tool, which resembles the tools shown with the aid of Figures 1 to 4 from the point of view of certain characteristics, properties and functions. The type of the representation, in particular the section plane, corresponds to that of [Fig. 3]. Hereinafter, in particular, characteristics, properties and functions of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 shown in [Fig. 5] are described, from the point of view of which it differs from the tools shown with the aid of Figures 1 to 4.

[0116] The cross-section of the first jaw portion 30 of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 shown in [Fig. 5] largely resembles the cross-section shown using [Fig. 3]. In the example shown, only the cross-section of the first jaw portion 30 is slightly flatter, and the groove 37 in the first jaw portion 30 is shallower.

[0117] Similar to the example shown using [Fig. 3], the second jaw portion 40 comprises a first structural portion 44 made of a metal which makes the second jaw portion 40 more rigid. Similar to the example shown using [Fig. 3], the entire second surface of gripping 41 on the second jaw-forming part 40 - including the convex area 42 - is formed by a structural part 45 made of an electrically insulating material.

[0118] The second jaw portion 40 of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 shown in [Fig. 5] is distinguished from that shown using [Fig. 3] by the fact that the second gripping surface on the second jaw portion 40 comprises a convex area 42, which projects towards the first jaw portion 30. This convex area 42 forms, in the example shown, the largest part of the second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw portion.

[0119] The second electrically insulating structural part 45 of the second jaw-forming part 40 has a cross-section with a trapezoidal cross-section, which forms the convex area 42 of the second gripping surface 4L. The oblique flanks of the convex area 42 of the second gripping surface 41, i.e. the two non-parallel sides of the trapezoidal cross-section of the second electrically insulating structural part 45, form an angle of approximately 20°. The plate-shaped partial area 43, facing the first jaw-forming part 30 and, in the configuration or situation shown in [Fig.5], resting on the first gripping surface 31 or facing it at a small distance, from the convex area 42 of the second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw part 40 is so narrow that it does not overlap or touch the electrode surfaces 63, 64, even in the configuration or situation shown in [Fig. 5], but has a distance therefrom. Tissue arranged and compressed or crushed between the gripping surfaces 31, 41 of the jaw parts 30, 40 is therefore not or only slightly crushed in the area of ​​the electrode surfaces 63, 64 and has large cross-sections, which consequently have low current densities.

[0120] The plate-shaped partial area 43 of the convex area 42 is planar or substantially planar and faces the first gripping surface 31 parallel or substantially parallel. During the intended use of the tool 20, tissue with mechanical properties within a predetermined range is compressed between the gripping surfaces 31, 41 by means of a planned closing force of the jaw parts 30, 40. During this intended use, tissue is significantly compressed only substantially between the plate-shaped partial area 43 of the convex area 42 and the first gripping surface 31 and is passed through with a sufficiently high current density and heated sufficiently for the tissue to be electrosurgically fused or welded or sealed. Outside the plate-shaped area 43, the tissue is not compressed, or is compressed significantly less. Consequently, the current density and heating are significantly lower, and the current has no or substantially no electrosurgical effect. The width of the plateau-shaped partial zone therefore determines the width of the sealing zone or sealing band, within which the tissue is sealed. The width of the plateau-shaped partial zone is particularly in the range from 1.6 mm to 2.4 mm.

[0121] In the second electrically insulating structural part 45 of the second jaw part 40 is provided the groove 47 already described, in which the scalpel 70 is guided with little play and low friction. In the example shown, the groove 47 in the second structural part 45 of the second jaw part 40 is significantly deeper than the groove 37 in the second structural part 35 of the first jaw part 30, so that the scalpel 70 is guided essentially in the second jaw part 40.

[0122] The entire second electrically insulating structural part 45 of the second jaw part 40 or the convex area 42 has a low thermal conductivity, in order to reduce heat loss from the sealing area or sealing strip and to increase the electrosurgical effect in the sealing area. The same applies to the entire second electrically insulating structural part 35 of the first jaw part 30 or its area between the electrode structural parts 61, 62.

[0123] The entire second electrically insulating structural part 45 of the second jaw-forming part 40 or the convex area 42 comprises in particular silicone rubber, a silicone elastomer or a silicone resin and a Shore A hardness in the range from 60 to 80.

[0124] [Fig.6] shows a schematic representation of a section through parts jaw 30, 40 of another bipolar electrosurgical tool 20, which resembles the tools shown in Figures 1 to 5 in certain characteristics, properties and functions. The type of representation, in particular the position and orientation of the section plane shown in [Fig. 6], corresponds to that of Figures 3 and 5. Hereinafter are described in particular characteristics, properties and functions of the bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 shown in [Fig. 6], in which it differs from those shown in Figures 1 to 5.

[0125] The bipolar electrosurgical tool 20 shown in [Fig. 6] is distinguished from the tool shown with the aid of [Fig. 5] in particular by the fact that not only the second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw portion 40 comprises a convex area 42, but also the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw portion 30 comprises a convex area 32. The convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw portion 30 is, in the example shown in [Fig. 6], formed by a section with a trapezoidal cross-section of the second electrically insulating structural part 35 of the first jaw part 30. In the example shown, the convex areas 32, 42 of the gripping surfaces 31, 41 on the jaw parts 30, 40 are of different heights and different widths. In particular, a flat plate-shaped partial area 43, facing the first jaw part 30, of the convex area 42 of the second gripping surface 41 on the second jaw part 40 is wider than a flat plate-shaped partial area 33, facing the second jaw part 40, of the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw part 30.

[0126] The convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw portion 30 is spaced from the two electrodes 61, 62. Tissue arranged between the jaw portions 30, 40 and compressed between the convex areas 32, 42 is not compressed or only slightly compressed in the environment of the electrode surfaces 63, 64. Therefore, in the environment of the electrode surfaces 63, 64 there are significantly larger cross-sections and significantly smaller current densities than between the convex areas 32, 42. Thus, the electrosurgical effect on the tissue is concentrated substantially on the area between the convex areas 32, 42.

[0127] The plate-shaped partial area 33 of the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 and the plate-shaped partial area 43 of the convex area 42 of the second gripping surface 41 are respectively planar or substantially planar and face each other parallel or substantially parallel. In the example shown, the plate-shaped partial area 33 of the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 is narrower than the plate-shaped partial area 43 of the convex area 42 of the second gripping surface 4L. The width of the sealing area or sealing strip, within which the fabric is sealed, corresponds substantially to the width of the plate-shaped partial area 33 of the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31.

[0128] [Fig. 7] shows a schematic representation of a tool 20 at a distal end 13 of another bipolar electrosurgical instrument, which may resemble the instruments shown with the aid of Figures 1 to 6 in certain features, properties and functions. The type of the representation in [Fig. 7] corresponds to a large extent to that of Figures 1, 2 and 4, but is however enlarged in relation thereto. Furthermore, the jaw parts 30, 40 are shown by dashed lines and the scalpel 70 is shown by solid lines, in order to emphasize the properties of the scalpel 70. The following are described in particular the characteristics, properties and functions of the tool 20 shown in [Fig.7], from the point of view of which it is distinguished from the tools represented using Figures 1 to 6.

[0129] The tool 20 shown in [Fig. 7] differs from the tools shown using Figures 1 to 6 in particular by the fact that the blade 71 of the scalpel 70 is not straight, but curved or incurved. The blade 71 is S-shaped and is located in particular in a plane parallel to the plane of the drawing in [Fig. 7]. The blade 71 comprises at its ends, which are arranged and guided in the grooves 37, 47 in the jaw parts 30, 40, steep sections 72, in which the blade is orthogonal or nearly orthogonal to the intended direction of movement of the scalpel 70. In a central area, the blade 71 comprises a flat section 73, in which the blade 71 extends at an acute angle (in the example shown: approximately 45 degrees) to the intended direction of movement of the scalpel 70. When the jaw parts 30, 40, as suggested in [Fig.7], are almost closed or have a small distance, the flat section 73 of the blade 71 can cut tissue held and crushed by the jaw parts.

[0130] Departing from the representation in [Fig.7], the blade 71 may comprise a steep section 72 only at one end and / or have one or more angles between straight or curved sections.

[0131] The configuration of the blade 71 deviating from the straight line shown in [Fig.7] can, in a short structural form of the blade and thus for an effect extending up to the vicinity of the distal end 13 of the instrument and tool 20, simultaneously allow good guidance of the scalpel in the grooves 37, 47 and light cutting by means of the flat section 73.

[0132] [Fig. 8] shows a schematic representation of a tool 20 at a distal end 13 of another bipolar electrosurgical instrument, which may resemble the instruments shown with the aid of Figures 1 to 7 from the point of view of certain characteristics, properties and functions. The type of the representation in [Fig. 8] corresponds to a large extent to that of [Fig. 7]. Hereinafter, in particular, characteristics, properties and functions of the tool 20 shown in [Fig. 8] are described, from the point of view of which it differs from the tools shown with the aid of Figures 1 to 7.

[0133] The tool 20 shown in [Fig. 8] is distinguished from the tools shown with reference to Figures 1 to 7 in particular by the fact that no scalpel is provided for mechanically severing crushed and fused, welded or sealed tissue between the jaw portions 30, 40. Instead, the tool 20 has a cutting wire 48 on the second jaw portion 40. The distal end of the cutting wire 48 is secured in a tensile-resistant manner to a distal attachment point 49 in the vicinity of the distal end of the second jaw portion. In the configuration shown in [Fig.8], the cutting wire 48 is located in a groove 47 in the second jaw portion 40.

[0134] In the example shown, the first gripping surface 31 on the first jaw portion 30 includes a convex area 32, similar to the tool shown using [Fig. 6]. The convex area 32 does not extend the entire length of the first jaw portion 30. Instead, the proximal end of the convex area 32 is slightly spaced from the proximal end of the first gripping surface 31, and the distal end of the convex area 32 is slightly spaced from the distal end of the first gripping surface and the distal end of the first jaw portion 30.

[0135] The second jaw portion 40 comprises a flat U-shape in the longitudinal direction, which encloses the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31. In the example shown, the longitudinal section of the convex area 32 is rectangular and the flat U-shape of the second jaw portion 40 is also rectangular. The groove 47 in the second jaw portion 40 is therefore also not straight in the longitudinal direction, but is shaped like a flat rectangular U. The distal attachment point 49 of the cutting wire 48 is arranged in the groove 47 near its distal end. In the closed configuration shown in [Fig. 8], the distal attachment point 49 of the cutting wire 48 is distal to the distal end of the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31.

[0136] [Fig.9] shows another schematic representation of the tool 20 of [Fig.8]. The type of representation in [Fig.9] corresponds to that of [Fig.8].

[0137] The tool 20 is shown in [Fig. 9] in another configuration, which is achieved on the basis of the configuration shown in [Fig. 8], by the proximal end of the cutting wire 48 being pulled toward the proximal side. As a result, the cutting wire 48 is tightened, comes out to a large extent from the groove 47 and assumes a straight configuration, which is shown in [Fig. 9]. In this straight configuration, the cutting wire 48 is located in a longitudinal groove in the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 of the first jaw portion 30.

[0138] [Fig. 10] shows an enlarged schematic representation of a cross-section along the plane XX suggested in Figures 8 and 9 orthogonal to the planes of the drawing of Figures 8 and 9.

[0139] In this cross-section the convex area 32 of the first gripping surface 31 of the first jaw part 30 and the grooves 37, 47 in the gripping surfaces 31, 4L are recognizable. The cutting wire 48 is shown as a black filled circle in the configuration shown using [Fig.8] - therefore inside the groove 47 in the second gripping surface 41 - and in the form of an empty circle in the configuration shown using [Fig.9] - therefore inside the groove 37 in the first gripping surface 31.

[0140] During the tightening of the cutting wire 48 and the transition from the configuration shown with the aid of [Fig. 8] to the configuration shown with the aid of [Fig. 9], i.e. during the movement of the cutting wire from the groove 47 in the second gripping surface 41 into the groove 37 in the first gripping surface 31, the cutting wire can, as an electrosurgical tool, electrosurgically sever tissue which is gripped and crushed between the gripping surfaces 31, 41 of the jaw parts 30, 40. The cutting wire can in this respect be used as a monopolar or bipolar electrosurgical tool. References

[0141] 10 Bipolar electrosurgical instrument

[0142] 11 Bipolar electrosurgical tool shaft 10

[0143] 12 Distal end of the rod 11

[0144] 13 Distal end of the bipolar electrosurgical instrument 10

[0145] 20 Bipolar electrosurgical tool

[0146] 30 First part forming jaw or first branch of the tool 20

[0147] 31 First gripping surface on the first jaw portion 30, facing the second part forming jaw 40

[0148] 32 Convex area of ​​the first gripping surface 31

[0149] 33 Partial plateau-shaped area of ​​the convex area 32

[0150] 34 First metal structural part of the first jaw-forming part 30

[0151] 35 Second electrically insulating structural part of the first part forming jaw 30

[0152] 37 Groove in the first gripping surface 31

[0153] 40 Second part forming jaw or second branch of the tool 20

[0154] 41 Second gripping surface on the second jaw portion 40, facing the first part forming jaw 30

[0155] 42 Convex area of ​​the second gripping surface 41

[0156] 43 Partial plateau-shaped area of ​​the convex area 42

[0157] 44 First metallic structural part of the second jaw-forming part 40

[0158] 45 Second electrically insulating structural part of the second part forming jaw 40

[0159] 47 Groove in the second gripping surface 41

[0160] 48 Cutting wire on the second jaw-forming part 40

[0161] 49 Distal attachment point of the cutting wire 48

[0162] 50 Articulation between the second jaw-forming part 40 and the first part jaw-forming 30

[0163] 58 Pivot axis of the second jaw-forming part 40 defined by joint 50

[0164] 61 First electrode structural portion in the first gripping surface 31

[0165] 62 Second electrode structural part in the first gripping surface 31

[0166] 63 Electrode surface on the first electrode structural part 61

[0167] 64 Electrode surface on the second electrode structural part 62

[0168] 70 Scalpel of tool 20, movable in grooves 37, 47

[0169] 71 Scalpel blade 70

[0170] 72 Steep section of the blade 71

[0171] 73 Flat section of the blade 71

Claims

1. Claims Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) for a bipolar electrosurgical instrument (10) for obturation of a hollow organ or sealing of other tissue, with: a first jaw portion (30) with a first gripping surface (31); a second jaw portion (40) with a second gripping surface (41) facing the first gripping surface (31); a joint (50), which allows a pivoting movement of the second jaw portion (40) relative to the first jaw portion (30); a first electrode (63) on the first jaw portion (30); a second electrode (64) on the first jaw portion (30), which is electrically insulated from the first electrode (63), wherein no electrode is provided on the second jaw portion (40); a convex surface area (32) between the first electrode (63) and the second electrode (64), which projects towards the second jaw portion (40); the convex surface area (32) being formed by an elastic structural part (35).

2. A bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein, in intended use, the surface area of ​​the first electrode (63) and the surface area of ​​the second electrode (64) are respectively at least 20% or 50% or by a factor of 2, 3, 5, 10 or 20 greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​tissue gripped or crushed in the intended manner between the jaw portions (30, 40) during the intended electrosurgical treatment.

3. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the intended use, the width of the first strip-shaped electrode (63) and the width of the second strip-shaped electrode (64) are in particular respectively at least 20% or 50% or by a factor of 2, 3, 5, 10 or 20 greater than the thickness of tissue gripped or crushed in the intended manner between the jaw parts during the intended electrosurgical treatment.

4. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the claims previous, wherein the entire second gripping surface (41) is designed to be electrically insulating.

5. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a cutting device (70), which is movable between the first jaw portion (30) and the second jaw portion (40), for mechanically severing tissue held between the first jaw portion (30) and the second jaw portion (40).

6. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrode (63) and the second electrode (64) are arranged next to each other and parallel to each other on the first gripping surface (31).

7. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrode (63) and the second electrode (64) are arranged on or near opposite edges of the first gripping surface (31), the first gripping surface (31) is entirely designed to be electrically insulating between the first electrode (63) and the second electrode (64).

8. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the convex surface area (32) is bar-shaped or bead-shaped with a substantially rectangular, trapezoidal or rounded cross-section.

9. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a convex surface area (42) on the second gripping surface (41) of the second jaw portion (40), which projects towards the first gripping surface (31) of the first jaw portion (30).

10. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the convex surface area (42) on the second gripping surface (41) of the second jaw portion (40) is arranged and designed in such a way that it cannot touch, even in the closed state of the tool (20), either the first electrode (63) or the second electrode (64).

11. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the convex surface area (42) on the second gripping surface (41) is bar-shaped or bead-shaped with a substantially rectangular, trapezoidal or rounded cross-section.

12. Bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the convex surface area (42) on the second gripping surface (41) of the second jaw portion (40) is formed by a structural portion (45) made of an elastic material.

13. Bipolar electrosurgical instrument (10) with: a rod (11); a bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bipolar electrosurgical tool (20) is connected or connectable to a distal end (12) of the shaft (11).

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