Forceps with two parts drive bar

Abstract

To provide surgical devices such as forceps, in particular, a forceps device having operable jaws configured to grip, manipulate, and / or treat a tissue.SOLUTION: Forceps have a first jaw and a second jaw, and at least one of the first and second jaws can move between open and closed positions. The forceps include an inner shaft that is disposed within the outer shaft and extends along a longitudinal axis, and a drive bar that is coupled to the inner shaft and extends distally from the inner shaft. The drive bar includes a pair of drive burst struts, the pair of drive burst struts extending from the distal portion of the inner shaft and arranged laterally and medially at least one of flanges of the first and second sets of first and second jaws. The drive pin can be fixed to a pair of drive struts, the drive bar can be translated within the outer shaft, and the drive pin can be translated to open and / or close the first and / or second jaws.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Priority Claim) This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 826,532, entitled "BLADE ASSEMBLY FOR FORCEPS," filed March 29, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 826,522, entitled "SLIDER ASSEMBLY FOR FORCEPS," filed March 29, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 841,476, entitled "FORCEPS WITH CAMMING JAWS," filed May 1, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 62 / 994,220, entitled "FORCEPS DEVICES AND METHODS," filed March 24, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This document relates generally, but not exclusively, to surgical devices such as forceps, and more particularly to forceps devices having actuatable jaws configured to grasp, manipulate, and / or treat tissue. [Background technology]

[0003] The present disclosure relates to surgical devices, such as forceps devices. Forceps devices, hereinafter simply referred to as forceps, including but not limited to electrosurgical forceps, are often used in surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic and open surgery. Forceps may be used to manipulate, engage, grasp, or otherwise interact with anatomical features, such as blood vessels or other tissue.

[0004] The forceps may include an end effector that is one or more of rotatable, openable, closeable, extendable, retractable, and capable of providing an input such as electrosurgical energy or ultrasound. For example, jaws located at the distal end of the forceps may be actuated via elements of the forceps' handpiece to open and close the jaws to thereby engage a blood vessel or other tissue. The forceps may also include extendable and retractable blades, or another end effector type device. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Exemplary forceps are disclosed herein having actuable jaws facilitated by one or more flanges with cam slots or tracks and a drive bar formed from a pair of drive bar struts. The drive bar receives a drive pin (camming or camming pin) that can be translated along the cam slot to transition the forceps between closed and open positions. The inventors have recognized that the drive bar can be improved to simplify the design and manufacture of the forceps, reduce costs, and maximize the space available for other components. In one example, the drive bar can include a pair of drive bar struts, which in one example are formed from two substantially identical plates. The two plates can be separately coupled to the inner shaft, for example, by snapping into slots provided in the inner shaft. By being able to use two substantially identical plates and coupling the drive bar to the inner shaft without the need to preassemble the drive bar parts, the design and manufacture of the forceps can be simplified, reduce costs, and maximize the space available for other components.

[0006] In one example, a surgical forceps may include a drive pin, an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis, a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first jaw including a first set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion thereof, each flange of the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving the drive pin, a second jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, the second jaw including a second set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion thereof, each flange of the second set including a second track for receiving the drive pin, an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, and a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft. A drive bar extends from a distal portion of the inner shaft and includes a pair of drive bar struts disposed laterally inward of the first and second sets of flanges, and a drive pin is securable to the pair of drive bar struts, where the drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first and second sets of tracks to move the first and second jaws between open and closed positions.

[0007] In another example, a surgical forceps may include a drive pin, an outer shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, first and second jaws each pivotable relative to the outer shaft, the first jaw including a first set of flanges, each first flange including a first track for receiving the drive pin therein, and the second jaw including a second set of flanges, each second flange including a second track for receiving the drive pin therein, an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, and a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft. The drive bar includes a first drive bar strut extending from the inner shaft and a second drive bar strut extending from the inner shaft and separately coupled thereto, a drive pin connected to the first and second drive bars, the drive bar being translatable within the outer shaft, and translating the drive pin along a first set of tracks and a second set of tracks to move the first jaw and the second jaw between open and closed positions.

[0008] In another example, a surgical forceps includes a drive pin, an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis, and a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first jaw including a first set of flanges disposed on a proximal portion of the first jaw, each flange of the first set of flanges including a first track that receives the drive pin. The forceps may include a second jaw connected to the outer tube, an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, and a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft. The drive bar includes a pair of drive bar struts extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft, a drive pin being securable to the pair of drive bar struts, where the drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along a first set of tracks to move the first jaw between open and closed positions relative to the second jaw, and a blade is disposed within the inner shaft and drive bar and is translatable to extend between the first and second jaws, where each drive bar strut includes a projection extending from a first edge of the drive bar strut forming an L-shaped plate, and where the first edge, second edge, first face, and second face of the blade do not contact the drive bar.

[0009] The features described herein may be used with other devices besides forceps, such as medical devices (e.g., instruments) for performing treatments, diagnoses, and imaging. The devices and methods may be used in a variety of medical disciplines, including, but not limited to, general surgery, gynecology, urology, pulmonology, cardiovascular, or any other suitable discipline.

[0010] This Summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive description of the invention. The Detailed Description is included to provide further information regarding the present patent application.

[0011] In the drawings, they are not necessarily drawn to scale, and like numbers may describe like components in different figures. Like numbers with different letter suffixes may represent different instances of like components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a side view of a forceps having jaws in an open configuration according to an example of the present application. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a side view of the forceps of FIG. 1A with the jaws in a closed configuration. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of a portion of a forceps according to an example of the present application. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a forceps according to an example of the present application. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a close-up view of a portion of a forceps according to an example of the present application. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 illustrates a front end view of a distal plug of a forceps according to an example of the present application. [Figure 6A] FIG. 13 is a close-up view of the drive bar and inner shaft according to an example of the present application. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a close-up view of the drive bar of FIG. 6A rotated 180 degrees. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the drive bar and inner shaft shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, including a blade, according to an example of the present application. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the drive bar and inner shaft shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a close-up view of the drive bar and inner shaft according to another example of the present application. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the drive bar and inner shaft shown in FIG. 8, including the blades. [Figure 9B] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a drive bar, inner shaft, and blades according to an example of the present application. [Figure 10]FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a drive bar, inner shaft, and blade according to another example of the present application. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the drive bar, inner shaft, and blade shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a drive bar, inner shaft, and blades according to an example of the present application. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a close-up view of the drive bar and inner shaft according to another example of the present application. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the drive bar and inner shaft shown in FIG. 13, including the blades. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a drive bar, inner shaft, and blades according to an example of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] A medical device that includes a handpiece that manipulates an end effector allows a surgeon to control the end effector of the device to actuate one or more functions of the end effector. Actuation of the end effector may be facilitated by one or more actuation systems of the handpiece that may retract, extend, or rotate one or more shafts to control the movement of the end effector.

[0014] The present disclosure relates generally to medical devices, such as surgical devices. Although the present application is described with reference to forceps, other end effectors may be used with and operated by the hand pieces described herein. In addition, other hand pieces may be connected to and controlled by the end effectors described herein. The present disclosure includes examples of hand pieces that include one or more actuation systems, examples of end effectors, and examples in which the disclosed actuation systems and end effectors may be used together in a medical device.

[0015] The forceps may include medical forceps, cutting forceps, electrosurgical forceps, or any other type of forceps. The forceps includes an end effector controlled by a handpiece including an actuation system, which may be one or more of rotatable, openable, closable, extendable, and capable of delivering electrosurgical or ultrasonic energy. For example, jaws located at a distal end of the forceps may be actuated via one or more actuators in the handpiece of the forceps to open, close, and rotate the jaws to engage a blood vessel or other tissue. The forceps also includes an extendable and retractable blade, for example, a blade that may be extended distally between a pair of jaws to separate a first tissue from a second tissue.

[0016] In this disclosure, relative terms such as "about," "generally," or "substantially" are used with a possible variation of ±10% of the stated numerical value, or within ±10% of the numerical value.

[0017] FIGURE 1A shows a side view of the forceps 10 with the jaws 12 in an open position, and FIGURE 1B shows a side view of the forceps 10 with the jaws 12 in a closed position. Directional descriptors, such as proximal and distal, are used within their ordinary meaning in the art. Proximal direction P and distal direction D, as well as superior T and inferior B, are shown on the axis provided in FIGURE 1A. The forceps may include a handpiece 14, one or more actuators 20, an outer shaft 28 (or outer tube), an inner shaft 26 (or inner tube), a drive bar 27, and an end effector 16.

[0018] The forceps 10 may include a hand piece 14 at a proximal end and an end effector 16 at a distal end. An intermediate portion 18 may extend between the hand piece 14 and the end effector 16 and operably couple the hand piece 14 to the end effector 16. Various movements of the end effector 16 may be controlled by one or more actuation systems 20 of the hand piece 14. In an illustrative example, the end effector 16 may include jaws 12 that may move between an open position and a closed position. The end effector 16 may be rotated along a longitudinal axis A1 of the forceps 10. The end effector 16 may include a cutting blade and an electrode for applying electrosurgical energy.

[0019] The forceps 10 may include jaws 12, a housing 22, a lever 24, an inner shaft 26, a drive bar 27, an outer shaft 28, a rotational actuator 30, a blade assembly 32, a trigger 34, and / or an actuation button 36. In this example, the end effector 16, or a portion of the end effector 16, may be one or more of: opened, closed, rotated, extended, retracted, and subjected to electrosurgical energy.

[0020] To operate the end effector 16, a user may displace the lever 24 proximally to drive the jaws 12 from an open position (FIG. 1A) to a closed position (FIG. 1B). In the example of the forceps 10, by moving the jaws 12 from the open position to the closed position, a user may clamp and compress tissue. The handpiece 14 may also allow a user to rotate the end effector 16. For example, rotating the rotational actuator 30 rotates the end effector 16 by rotating the inner shaft 26, the drive bar 27, and the outer shaft 28 together.

[0021] In some examples, with the tissue compressed, the user may press the activation button 36 to transfer electrosurgical energy to the end effector 16, such as an electrode. The application of electrosurgical energy can be used to treat the tissue, such as by sealing, or otherwise affecting the tissue that has been clamped. In some examples, the electrosurgical energy can seal, ablate, and / or coagulate the tissue. Although example electrodes are described herein, the electrosurgical energy may be applied to any suitable electrode.

[0022] In some examples, the forceps 10 may be used to cut the treated tissue via a blade assembly 32 (also referred to as a blade 32). For example, the hand piece 14 may allow a user to extend and retract the blade 32. The blade 32 may be extended by displacing a trigger 34 proximally. The blade 32 may be retracted by allowing the trigger 34 to return distally to a default position. The default position of the trigger 34 is shown in FIG. 1. In some examples, the hand piece 14 may include a feature that prevents the blade 32 from being extended until the jaws 12 are at least partially or fully closed.

[0023] The forceps 10 may be used to perform treatment, such as a surgical procedure, on a patient. In one example, a distal portion of the forceps 10, including the jaws 12, may be inserted into the patient, for example, through an incision or another anatomical feature of the patient's body. A proximal portion of the forceps 10, including the housing 22, remains outside the incision or another anatomical feature of the body. Actuation of the lever 24 causes the jaws 12 to clamp onto tissue. The rotational actuator 30 may be rotated via user input to rotate and steer the jaws 12 at any time during the procedure. An actuation button 36 may be actuated to provide electrical energy to the jaws 12 to cauterize, desiccate, or seal tissue within the closed jaws 12. A trigger 34 may be moved to translate the blade 32 distally to cut tissue within the jaws 12.

[0024] 2 illustrates a side view of a portion of the forceps 10 in an open position. The end effector 16 may be configured as articulating jaws 12A (upper jaw 12A) and 12B (lower jaw 12B) (collectively referred to as jaws 12), which are configured to steer, engage, grasp, or otherwise affect an anatomical feature, such as a blood vessel or another tissue. In one example, the jaws 12 are double-acting jaws, and both the upper jaw 12A and the lower jaw 12B can move (rotate) relative to the outer tube 28. In one example, only one of the upper jaw 12A and the lower jaw 12B can rotate relative to the outer tube 28. That is, in one example, the upper jaw 12A may be configured to rotate relative to the lower jaw 12B and the outer tube 28. In another example, the lower jaw 12B may be configured to rotate relative to the upper jaw 12A and the outer tube 28.

[0025] The forceps 10 may include an upper jaw 12A, a lower jaw 12B, a guide 46 (or proximal pin), a drive pin 44 (or cam pin 44), and a pivot pin 40. The jaws 12 of the end effector 16 may be connected to the outer shaft 28 via the pivot pin 40. The pivot pin 40 may extend through a portion of the jaws 12 such that the pivot pin 40 may be received by an outer arm 50 of the outer shaft 28 (only one outer arm 50 is visible in FIG. 2 ).

[0026] The forceps 10 can have a reciprocating drive bar 27 coupled to an inner shaft 26 that is at least partially disposed within an outer shaft 28. As discussed herein, the drive bar 27 can be coupled to and extend distally from the inner shaft 16. The drive bar 27 can have a drive pin 44 (or cam pin 44) attached thereto (e.g., at its distal end). Thus, the drive bar 27, and thereby the drive pin 44, can be movable relative to the outer shaft 28 in a translatable manner. Movement of the drive bar 27 (viewed through a slot 42 in an arm 50 of the outer shaft 28) can traverse the drive pin 44 along the longitudinal axis A1 of the outer shaft 28 and the longitudinal axis of the jaws 12, moving the jaws 12 as a result of a camming action, as further described below.

[0027] The guide 46 may be secured to the outer shaft 28, such as by insertion into the bores 47A and 47B (collectively referred to as bores 47; only one bore 47 is visible in FIG. 2). In some examples, the bores 47 may be substantially coaxial and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1. In such cases, the guide 46 may be disposed within the bore 47 and may be on an axis defined by the bore 47 that is substantially perpendicular to the axis A1. The bore 47 may also be substantially centered about the outer shaft 28, centering the guide 46. In some examples, the bores 47 may be offset from the axis A1 (either above or below) and substantially perpendicular to the axis A1. In another example, the bores 47 may intersect a transverse plane defined in part by the axis A1, such that one bore is above and one is below the axis A1, and the axis defined by the bores 47 may pass through the axis A1 or may be offset therefrom in such a configuration. The axial tracks 70, 72 of the drive bar 27 and inner shaft 26 (see FIG. 3) may be configured to match the orientation of the guide 46, thereby allowing the drive bar 27 and inner shaft 26 to translate relative to the guide 46.

[0028] The outer shaft 28 may include a pair of outer arms 50. The forceps 10 may further include a distal plug 48, which may be a plug positionable within the outer shaft 28 between the outer arms 50 such that the drive bar 27 and the blades 32 may translate therethrough. As discussed herein, the distal plug 48 may include a channel extending therethrough, allowing the drive bar 27 and the blades 32 to extend therethrough (and translate relative thereto). The distal plug 48 is described in more detail below.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, each of the jaws 12A and 12B may have a pair of spaced apart flanges 52, 54, respectively (only two flanges, one on each of the jaws 12A and 12B, are visible in FIG. 2). The arrangement and structure of the flanges 52, 54 will be described in more detail below. According to some examples, the pair of flanges 52, 54 of the jaws 12 may be generally parallel to one another along a longitudinal direction (e.g., having generally parallel spaced apart inner surfaces that interface), but spaced apart by the inner drive bar 27. At least one of the pair of flanges 52, 54 may be pivotally coupled to the outer shaft 28 via a pivot pin 40.

[0030] Each of the flanges 52, 54 may also have a respective track 56, 58 (referred to herein as a cam slot or slot) spaced from the pivot pin 40. The tracks 56, 58 may be configured to receive the drive pin 44, and the drive pin 44 may be movably secured therein. The drive pin 44 may have a diameter less than a width of the tracks 56, 58 and be movably received by the tracks 56, 58. As the drive bar 27 moves, for example, by applying linear motion to the inner shaft 26, the drive pin 44 may traverse along a longitudinal length of the tracks 56, 58. The drive pin 44, drive bar 27, and inner shaft 26 (coupled to a portion of one or more actuators 20) may be configured to reciprocate relative to the outer shaft 28, such that the drive pin 44 may traverse the tracks 56, 58 in a reciprocating manner. Each track 56, 58 may be configured to act as a cam such that the jaws are driven from a first open position (shown in FIG. 1A) to a second closed (gripping) position (FIG. 1B), or vice versa, when the drive pin 44 traverses the longitudinal length of the track 56, 58. The shape and size of the flanges 52, 54, including the shape, size and placement of the tracks 56, 58, may be configured to limit or control the extent to which another portion of the jaw 12 can contact the blood vessel or other tissue being treated.

[0031] The tracks 56, 58 of each of the pair of flanges 52, 54 may be aligned with one another and may have generally the same shape. In other words, the tracks 56, 58 of each of the pair of flanges 52, 54 may be aligned when the end effector 16 is viewed from the side as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2. Thus, the tracks 56, 58 of each jaw 12 may be aligned in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis A1 of the jaw 12. The pivot pin 40 may be fixed to the outer shaft 28. The pivot bores of the flanges 52, 54 may be fixed to the pivot pin 40. The drive pin 44 may be fitted into the tracks 56, 58 of each of the pair of flanges 52, 54. As particularly shown in FIG. 2, the pins 40, 44, and 46 may be disposed parallel to one another along the longitudinal axis A1, and the tracks 56, 58 may be the same size and aligned as shown above.

[0032] 3 shows a perspective view of a portion of forceps 10. Upper jaw 12A can include flanges 52A, 52B (collectively flanges 52) and an upper gripping plate 60, and lower jaw 12B can include flanges 54A, 54B (collectively referred to as flanges 54) and a lower gripping plate 62. Flanges 52A and 52B can include tracks 56A and 56B, respectively (collectively referred to as tracks 56, with track 56A shown in FIG. 4). Flanges 54A and 54B can include tracks 58A and 58B, respectively (collectively referred to as tracks 58).

[0033] The jaws 12 may be rigid members configured to engage tissue. The jaws 12 may be coupled to the outer shaft 28, such as pivotally coupled via a pivot pin 40 (see FIG. 2). The pivot pin 40 may extend through a portion of the jaws 12, such as a pivot bore of each jaw 12, such that the pivot pin 40 may be received by an outer arm 50 (see FIG. 1) of the outer shaft 28. For example, the flanges 52A and 52B may have pivot bores 64A and 64B, respectively, and the flanges 54A and 54B may have pivot bores 66A and 66B (see FIG. 4).

[0034] 3, flange 52 may be interlaced with flange 54. In another example, flange 54 may be disposed laterally outboard of flange 52, or flange 52 may be disposed laterally outboard of flange 54.

[0035] Each of the grip plates 60, 62 of the jaws 12 may be a rigid or semi-rigid member configured to engage tissue and / or the opposing jaw to grasp tissue, such as during electrosurgery. One or more of the grip plates 60, 62 may include one or more of serrations, protrusions, ridges, etc. configured to increase engagement pressure and friction between the grip plates 60, 62 and tissue. The flange 52 of the upper jaw 12A may extend proximally away from the grip plate 60. Similarly, the flange 54 of the lower jaw 12B may extend proximally away from the grip plate 62. Each of the jaws 12 may include an electrode configured to deliver electricity to tissue (optionally via the grip plates 60, 62), a frame supporting the electrode, and a blade slot 66, 68 configured to receive a blade between the jaws 12, as discussed herein.

[0036] The track 56 of jaw 12A and the track 58 of flange 12B may be slots, channels, paths, or tracks in flanges 52 and 54, respectively. In some examples, the tracks 56 and 58 may be disposed proximally of the pivot pin 40 when the pivot pin 40 is coupled to the jaw 12 (and optionally the outer shaft 28). The tracks 56 and 58 may be shaped to receive the drive pin 44 therein. In some examples, the tracks 56 and 58 may be slots or channels configured to receive the drive pin 44 therethrough, connecting the drive bar 27 to the flanges 52 and 54 (and thus the jaw 12).

[0037] The tracks 56 and 58 may be straight in some instances and may be arcuately shaped in some instances. In any instance, the tracks 56 and 58 may be configured to allow the drive pin 44 to move simultaneously along the tracks 56 and 58 to open and close the jaws 12.

[0038] It will be understood that various modifications can be made to the surgical forceps described herein. For example, according to some examples, the jaws can be single acting rather than double acting. In some examples, a single flange can be utilized rather than a pair of flanges. Although the jaws are described as having a flange (or flanges), in some cases the jaws may not utilize a flange and features such as tracks can pass directly through the body portion of the jaw itself, for example.

[0039] As seen in FIG. 3, the drive bar 27 extends distally from the inner shaft 26. Both the drive bar 27 and the inner shaft 26 include axial tracks 70, 72, respectively, for receiving the guides 46 (see FIG. 2). For example, the drive bar 27 can include a pair of axial tracks 70A and 70B (see FIG. 4, collectively referred to as axial tracks 70), and the inner shaft 26 can include a pair of axial tracks 72A and 72B (collectively referred to as axial tracks 72). The axial tracks 70, 72 may also be referred to as axial slots or channels. Additionally, the axial track 70 of the drive bar 27 can be referred to as the proximal slot of the drive bar 27, and the axial track 72 of the inner shaft 26 can be referred to as the distal slot of the inner shaft 26, as discussed in more detail herein. The axial tracks 70 can each be an axial slot extending laterally through a wall of the drive bar 27 through which the guides 46 extend. The axial track 72 may be a channel, groove, recess, or another guide configured to receive the guide 46 .

[0040] The drive bar 27 may be coupled to the inner shaft 26. In one example, the drive bar 27 may include a pair of drive bar struts 80A and 80B (collectively referred to as drive bar struts 80). As described further herein, the drive bar struts 80 and the inner shaft 26 may include corresponding features, such as protrusions, tabs, grooves, recesses, etc., to couple the drive bar strut 80 to the inner shaft 26. When coupled, the drive bar strut 80 is axially and rotationally coupled to the inner shaft 26. In one example, the inner shaft 26 may include one or more slots (e.g., slot 84) and one or more flexible tabs 74 to allow the drive bar strut 80 to be inserted into the inner shaft 26. For example, as the drive bar strut 80 is inserted into the opening 82 and along the slot 84 of the inner shaft 26, the flexible tabs 74 bend to allow a portion of the drive bar strut 80 to pass and return to its original position while being positioned within the corresponding recess 78 of the drive bar strut.

[0041] As discussed herein, the drive bar 27 may receive the drive pin 44 within a drive pin opening 76, for example, at a distal end of the drive bar strut 80. Thus, the drive bar 27, and thereby the drive pin 44, may be moveable in a translatable manner relative to the outer shaft 28 and relative to the first jaw 12A and / or second jaw 12B.

[0042] 4 shows an enlarged view of a portion of the forceps 10. The distal plug 48 may be a plug positionable within the outer shaft 28 (see FIG. 2). The distal plug 48 may include a blade channel 96 extending therethrough, allowing the blade 32 to extend through (and translate relative to) the distal plug 48. In one example, the blade channel 96 is centrally located along the longitudinal axis A1.

[0043] The blade 32 may be an elongated cutting member including one or more sharp edges 100 configured to cut or ablate tissue or another item. The blade 32 may be coupled to a blade shaft 96. The blade 32 may be disposed within the outer shaft 28 (and within the inner shaft 26 and the drive bar 27) and may extend along an axis A1. The blade 32 may be translatable relative to the inner shaft 26, the drive bar 27, and the outer shaft 28 and may extend between (or into) the upper jaw 12A and the lower jaw 12B. As discussed herein, the blade 32 may extend axially through the drive bar 27 and through the flanges 52, 54 such that the blade 32 is in a position laterally inboard of the first set of flanges 52, the second set of flanges 54, and the pair of drive bar struts 80.

[0044] The forceps 10 may include a guide tube 90 disposed within and extending through the inner shaft 26 and the outer shaft 28. The guide tube 90 may include a body 91 defining a blade bore 92 and a wire routing bore 94. The body 91 may extend along an axis A1 and may be substantially cylindrical in some instances, but may have other shapes, such as an elliptical prism, a rectangular prism, a hexagonal prism, or an octagonal prism in other instances. The body 91 may be configured, for example, sized and shaped, to be complementary to an internal bore of the inner shaft 26. The blade bore 92 and the wire routing bore 94 may each be a bore extending axially through the body 91 along the axis A1. The blade bore 92 may be sized and shaped to receive a shaft 96 of the blade 32 therethrough and may be configured to translate the shaft 96 within the guide tube 90 to allow the blade 32 to be manipulated from the handle such that the blade 32 can be translated within the blade channel of the jaw 12.

[0045] In some examples of operation, the blade 32 can be translated distally into the track of the jaws 12 between the drive bar 27 when the jaws are between the open and closed positions, or when the jaws 12 are in the closed position. The blade 32 can be used to cut tissue or another item between the jaws 12.

[0046] 4 shows the blade 32 including a blade track 102 (or blade channel 102). The blade track 102 may be configured to contact the guide 46 to limit axial translation of the blade 32 relative to the guide 46 and outer shaft 28. For example, a proximal edge (which may be rounded complementary to the guide 46) may be configured to contact the guide 46 to limit distal translation of the blade 32 relative to the inner shaft 26, the drive bar 27, the outer shaft 28, and the jaw 12. Also, contact between one or more of the guide 46, the drive pin 44, and the pivot pin 40 and the upper edge of the blade track 102 may help to limit downward and / or upward movement of the blade 32 relative to the inner shaft 26, the drive bar 27, the outer shaft 28, and the jaw 12. Such contact may also help to limit rotation of the blade 32, such as about axis A1.

[0047] 5 illustrates a front view of the guide tube 90. In one example, the blade bores 92 and wire routing bores 94 are aligned along the longitudinal axis A1 and a midline M1 of the guide tube 90. In one example, the wire routing bores 94 can be offset from the midline M1 of the guide tube 90.

[0048] 6A-15 show different examples of drive bars having drive bar struts coupled to an inner shaft. FIGS. 6A-7B show the examples shown in the previous figures. The drive bar 27 can be coupled to the inner shaft 26. In one example, the drive bar 27 can be formed from a pair of drive bar struts 80A, 80B (collectively drive bar struts 80) extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft 26. In one example, the drive bar struts 80 are substantially identical plates. For example, the drive bar struts 80 can have the same shape, length, and features. That is, features such as projections, grooves, recesses, axial tracks, and bores are in substantially the same positions and have the same size between the two plates. Having two identical plates in the drive bar struts 80 of the drive bar 27 can simplify the manufacture of the drive bar struts 27, reducing overall manufacturing costs and facilitating assembly of the forceps. In another example, the drive bar struts 80A and 80B can be different from each other.

[0049] The drive bar struts 80A and 80B may extend from a proximal end 110 to a distal end 112. As discussed herein, the drive bar strut 80 may include an axial track 71 and a bore 76. In one example, the bore 76 is distal to the axial track 71. The drive bar strut 80 may include a first edge 114, a second edge 116 opposite the first edge 114, and a blade-facing surface 136 extending between the first and second edges 114, 116. The blade-facing surface 136 may be surfaces of the drive bar strut 80 that are disposed adjacent one another such that they form a channel (e.g., a blade channel) configured to receive a blade, as discussed herein. The first edge 114 and the second edge 116 may be configured to have a shape (profile) that corresponds to a feature on the inner shaft 26 such that the drive bar strut 80 can be coupled to the inner shaft 26. In one example, drive bar strut 80 may have a recess 78 along a first edge 114 toward the proximal end 110 and a recess 132 along a second edge 116 toward the proximal end 110. First edge 114 includes a proximal portion 191 (proximal to recess 78) and a distal portion 192 (distal to recess 78). Similarly, second edge 116 includes a proximal portion 193 (proximal to recess 132) and a distal portion 194 (distal to recess 132).

[0050] As seen in FIG. 7B , the outer diameter D1 of the inner shaft 26 is substantially equal to the height H of the drive bar strut 80. In one example, the height H of the drive bar strut 80 can be less than the outer diameter D of the inner shaft 26, but greater than the inner diameter. In one example, the height H of the drive bar strut 80 can be greater than the outer diameter D of the inner shaft 26 and less than the inner diameter of the outer shaft 28, such that the drive bar 27 can still translate within the outer shaft 28. The inner shaft 26 can include a flexible tab 74 that is configured to bend to allow the drive bar strut 80 to be inserted into the distal opening of the inner shaft 26. Because the height H of the drive bar strut 80 is greater than the inner diameter of the inner shaft 26, insertion of the drive bar strut 80 causes the flexible tab 74 to bend outward (e.g., away from the longitudinal axis). When the flexible tab 74 is aligned with the recess 78 , the flexible tab 74 moves into the recess 78 to couple the drive bar strut 80 to the inner shaft 26 .

[0051] In one example, the top surface 124 of the inner shaft 26 may define slots 79A, 79B, 81, and 84. The slots 79A, 79B, and 81 may communicate with one another and define the flexible tab 74. The flexible tab 74 may include a ridge 195 that may be received in both recesses 78 of the drive bar strut 80, as discussed herein.

[0052] The slot 84 may extend proximally from the distal end of the inner shaft 26. The width of the slot 84 is such that the slot 84 can receive both drive bar struts 80 and still have a sufficient gap 142 to receive the blade 32 therein. For example, the gap 142 allows the blade 32 to translate freely between the drive bar struts 80 without interference from the drive bar struts 80. In one example, the blade facing surface 136 may contact the blade 32. In another example, the blade facing surface 136 does not contact the blade 36. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7B, no portion of the drive bar strut 80 covers the upper edge 123 or the lower edge 125 of the blade 32. That is, when assembled, there is a vertical clearance 190 above and below the blade 32. In one example, the vertical clearance 190 indicates that no portion of the drive bar is disposed above or below the upper and lower surfaces of the blade 32. In another example, the vertical clearance indicates that there is enough room between the upper and lower surfaces of the blade 32 and a portion of the drive bar. For example, the vertical clearance may indicate that there is enough space between the two so that the upper and lower surfaces of the blade do not contact the drive bar. Thus, in one example, the upper, lower, and side surfaces of the blade 32 do not contact the drive bar strut 80. Additionally, in the example shown in FIG. 7B, no portion of the drive bar strut 80 extends beyond the upper or lower surfaces of the blade 32.

[0053] Top surface 124 of inner shaft 26 may also include parallel slots 122A and 122B (collectively referred to as slots 122) disposed on flexible tab 74. Recess 78 has a length at least as long as the distance between the proximal end of slot 84 and the distal end of slot 122. Thus, when assembled, proximal portion 191 of drive bar strut 80 may be disposed within slot 122 (e.g., proximal portion 191 of drive bar strut 80A is disposed in slot 122A and proximal portion 191 of drive bar strut 80B is disposed in slot 122B), and distal portions 192 of drive bar struts 80A and 80B may be disposed within slot 84. In the example shown, drive bar struts 80A and 80B do not contact one another.

[0054] FIG. 6B shows the inner shaft 26 and drive bar strut 80 of FIG. 6A rotated 180 degrees. The inner shaft 26 can include a slot 85, which can be opposite (diametrically opposite) the slot 84. In one example, the length of the slot 85 is different than the length of the slot 84. In another example, the lengths of the slots 84 and 85 are the same. As discussed herein with respect to the slot 84, the slot 85 is configured to receive both the drive bar struts 80A and 80B. Located proximal to the slot 85 are a pair of parallel slots 131A and 131B (collectively referred to herein as slots 131). The slot 131 can be opposite the slot 122. Thus, when assembled, proximal portions 193 of drive bar struts 80 may be disposed within slots 131 (e.g., proximal portion 193 of drive bar strut 80A may be disposed within slot 131A and proximal portion 193 of drive bar strut 80B may be disposed within slot 131B), and distal portions 194 of drive bar struts 80A and 80B may be disposed within slots 85. In the example shown, drive bar struts 80A and 80B do not contact one another.

[0055] As seen in FIGS. 6A-7B, two identical plates may be used. Thus, manufacturing of the drive bar struts 80 may be simplified. The drive bar struts 80 may be positioned facing each other. In one example, the drive bar struts 80 may interface with generally parallel spaced apart inner surfaces (or blade facing surfaces 136). The drive bar struts 80 may be inserted into the distal end of the inner shaft 26 and simply snap onto the inner shaft 26. For example, the drive bar struts 80 may be inserted into the inner shaft 26 (one at a time or together) such that the proximal portion 191 of the first edge 114 bends the flexible tabs 74 outward (away from the longitudinal axis A1) and allows the drive bar struts 80 to be snapped into place within the inner shaft 26.

[0056] The features discussed herein with respect to the inner shaft 26 and the drive bar strut 80 are those by which the drive bar strut 80 is coupled to the inner shaft 26. However, in one example, once inserted into the inner shaft 26, the drive bar strut 80 may be further coupled to the inner shaft, for example, by spot welding, soldering, brazing, or another similar process. Additionally, in one example, the drive pin 44 may be secured to the drive bar strut 80, for example, by spot welding, soldering, brazing, or another similar process.

[0057] 8-9B show another example of an inner shaft 26 coupled to a drive bar 27'. The example shown may be used with all of the components described herein for the forceps 10. The inner shaft 26 is the same inner shaft 26 as disclosed herein. However, the drive bar struts 80A and 80B shown previously have been modified to drive bar struts 80A' and 80B' (collectively referred to herein as drive bar struts 80'). Drive bar strut 80' is the same as drive bar strut 80, except that it includes a different axial track (e.g., axial track 200). As seen in FIG. 8, axial track 200 is defined by a first side 204, a proximal side 207, a second side 206 (opposite first side 204), and a distal side 208. Drive bar strut 80A' includes a protrusion 202 extending from a blade-facing surface 136, which forms a blade channel configured to receive a blade 32. In the example shown in FIGS. 8-9B, drive bar strut 80' includes additional features (e.g., protrusion 202) so that, in order to use two identical plates for drive bar strut 80, drive bar strut 80B' would be drive bar strut 80A' rotated 180 degrees. Drive bar strut 80B' thus includes a protrusion extending from blade facing surface 136. Drive bar 27' may be coupled to inner shaft 26 similar to how drive bar strut 27 is coupled to inner shaft 26. However, prior to coupling drive bar 27' to inner shaft 26, drive bar strut 80' is positioned around blade 32 so that protrusion 202 extends through blade track 102 to form an H-beam with blade 32.

[0058] As explained, drive bar strut 80B' is identical to drive bar strut 80A' but rotated 180 degrees. Thus, when assembled, proximal portion 191 of drive bar strut 80A' may be disposed in slot 122A, proximal portion 193 of drive bar strut 80B' may be disposed in slot 122B, and distal portions 192 and 194 of drive bar struts 80A' and 80B' are disposed in slot 84. In the example shown, drive bar struts 80A' and 80B' do not contact each other or blade 32, even when they form an H-beam around blade 32 and protrusion 202 extends into blade track 102.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 9B, the projection 202 extends through the blade track 102 and into the axial track 200 of the other drive bar strut 80'. Although the projection 202 extends through the blade track 102, the upper and lower surfaces of the blade are not covered by any portion of the drive bar strut 80'. In one example, the projection 202 maximizes the space available for other components within the inner tube 26 without extending beyond the outer surface 210 of the corresponding axial track 200 of the other drive bar strut 80'. Additionally, preventing the projection 202 from extending beyond the outer surface 210 of the other drive bar strut may ensure that the drive bar 27' can be extended by translating the distal plug 48 (see FIG. 4).

[0060] 10-12 show another example of a drive bar 220 coupled to an inner shaft 222 that may be used in a forceps 10 as disclosed herein. The drive bar 220 includes a pair of drive bar struts 224A and 224B (collectively drive bar struts 224). In one example, the drive bar struts 224A and 224B are the same plate. The drive bar strut 224 includes an axial track 226 that can receive the guide 46 and a bore hole 228 that can receive the drive pin 44, as described above.

[0061] The drive bar strut 224 includes a first surface 231, a second surface 232 (opposite the first surface 231), a first edge 260, and a second edge 262. The first and second surfaces 231 and 232 extend between the first edge 260 and the second edge 262. In one example, the drive bar strut 224 has a bent projection 230 that extends from the first edge 260 away from the second surface 232. That is, the bent projection 230 extends substantially perpendicular to the second surface 232. In brief, the drive bar strut 224 is an L-shaped plate. The bent projection 230 forms the short arm of the L-shaped plate, and the surface extending from the second edge 262 to the bent projection 230 forms the long arm of the L-shaped plate. The second edge 262 includes a projection 234 that extends axially from the longitudinal axis A1. 10, drive bar strut 224A and drive bar strut 224B are the same plate. Thus, drive bar strut 224A and drive bar strut 224B are disposed within inner shaft 222, and drive bar strut 224B is drive bar strut 224A rotated 180 degrees.

[0062] The inner shaft 222 includes an upper surface 270 and a lower surface 272, each surface 270, 272 including a slot for receiving a portion of the drive bar strut 224. In one example, the inner shaft 222 includes slots 240A and 243A (along the upper surface 270) and slots 240B and 243B (along the lower surface 272). The slots 240A and 240B (collectively referred to herein as slots 240) include first slot portions 242A and 242B (collectively referred to as first slots 242) and second slot portions 244A and 244B (collectively referred to as second slot portions 244). The first slot portions 242 have a width equal to or slightly greater than the width W1 of the projection 230. The second slot portions 244 are thinner than the first slot portions 242. For example, first slot portion 242 receives a portion of drive bar strut 224 along first edge 260 that includes bent projection 230. Second slot portion 244 receives a portion of first edge 260 that does not include bent projection 230. Slots 243A and 243B (collectively referred to as slots 243) are configured to receive respective projections 234 of drive bar strut 224.

[0063] To couple the drive bar 220 to the inner shaft 222, the first and second drive bar struts 224A and 224B are inserted into the slots 240A and 240B. For example, the drive bar strut 224A may be inserted into the slot 240A in the direction of arrow A1 from the top surface 270. The insertion stops when the protrusion 234 is inserted into the slot 243B along the bottom surface 272 of the inner shaft 222. Similarly, the drive bar strut 224B may be inserted into the slot 240B in the direction of arrow A2 from the bottom surface 272. The insertion stops when the protrusion 234 is inserted into the slot 243A along the top surface 270 of the inner shaft 222. As seen in FIGS. 11 and 12, when coupled to the inner shaft 222, the gap 253 is maintained between the bottom surface 251 of the folded protrusion 230 and the second edge 262. Thus, the drive bar strut 224 is separately coupled to the inner shaft 222. Additional coupling methods may be implemented as discussed herein. For example, once the drive bar strut 224 is inserted into the inner shaft 222, the coupling may be further strengthened, if desired, by, for example, but not limited to, spot welding the drive bar strut 224 to the inner shaft 222.

[0064] 13-14 show another example of a drive bar 300 coupled to an inner shaft 302 that may be used in the forceps 10 as disclosed herein. The example shown in FIGS. 13-14 is most similar to the example shown in FIGS. 6A-7B, except that in FIGS. 13-14, drive bar struts 306A and 306B (collectively referred to as drive bar struts 306) are engaged and then inserted into the inner shaft 302, which includes a single slot 304 on the flexible tab 74 as compared to the two slots (122A and 122B) in FIG. 7A. The drive bar strut 306 includes an axial track 320 for receiving a guide and a bore 322 for receiving a drive pin 44 as disclosed herein.

[0065] The drive bar strut 306 has a first surface 308, a second surface 310 opposite the first surface 308, a first edge 311, and a second edge 313 opposite the first edge 311, where the first surface 308 and the second surface 310 extend between the first edge 311 and the second edge 313. The first edge 311 includes folding protrusions 312 and 314. In one example, the folding protrusion 312 is disposed proximal to the recess 322 and the folding protrusion 314 is disposed distal to the recess 322. The folding protrusions 312 and 314 have teeth 318 extending therefrom. In one example, the folding protrusions 312 and 314 can extend perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the second surface 310. The second edge 313 includes the recess 317 and the teeth 315 extending from the second edge 313. That is, tooth 315 may be perpendicular to tooth 318. In one example, bent projections 312 and 314 are integral with drive bar strut 306. In one example, bent projections 312 and 314 may be coupled (e.g., spot welded) to first edge 311 of drive bar strut 306.

[0066] Prior to coupling the drive bar struts 306 to the inner shaft 302, the two drive bar struts 306 are brought together so that the second faces 310 of each drive bar strut 306 face each other. For example, drive bar strut 306B is the same drive bar strut 306A but rotated 180°. When the two drive bar struts 306 are brought together, the bend projections 312 and 314 maintain a gap 340 between the two drive bar struts 306A and 306B. The two drive bar struts 306A and 306B are engaged when the teeth 318 of the bend projections 312 and 314 extend between the teeth 315 of the second edge 313. Once engaged, the drive bar strut 306 can be inserted into the inner tube 26, similar to how the drive bar strut 80 is inserted into the inner tube 26 (Figures 6A-7B), although in the example shown in Figures 13-15, two drive struts 306 are engaged.

[0067] As discussed herein, the drive bar struts 306 may be identical plates. Thus, manufacturing of the drive bar struts 306 may be simplified. The drive bar struts 306 may be positioned opposite one another. The drive bar struts 306 may be inserted into the distal end of the inner shaft 302 and simply snapped onto the inner shaft 302. For example, when the drive bar struts 306 are inserted (together) into the inner shaft 302, the protrusions 312 cause the flexible tabs 74 to bend outward (away from the longitudinal axis A1) allowing the drive bar struts 306 to be snapped into the inner shaft 26. The bent protrusions 312 and corresponding teeth 315 of another drive bar strut may be positioned in the slots 304. Similarly, the bent protrusions 314 and corresponding teeth 315 of another drive bar strut may be positioned in the slots 84. In one example, once snapped into place along the inner shaft 24, the drive bar struts 306 may be further coupled (e.g., welded or otherwise) to the inner shaft 26. In another example, the drive bar struts 306 can be coupled (e.g., welded) and then inserted into the inner shaft. In another example, the drive bar struts 306 can be welded (or otherwise coupled) together and then further coupled (e.g., welded to the inner shaft).

[0068] Examples and various notes Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

[0069] Example 1 provides a surgical forceps, the surgical forceps including: a drive pin; an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first jaw including a first set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion thereof, each flange of the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving a drive pin; a second jaw connected to the outer shaft; an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis; and a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft, the drive bar including a pair of drive bar struts extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft and disposed laterally inward of the first set of flanges, to which the drive pin can be fixed, the drive bar being translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first set of tracks to move the first jaw between an open position and a closed position relative to the second jaw.

[0070] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes, each drive bar strut of the pair of drive bar struts includes an opening configured to receive a drive pin, where the opening is disposed laterally inwardly of an outer surface of the inner shaft.

[0071] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes, where the drive bar includes a first pair of axial tracks disposed proximal to the opening, the first pair of axial tracks disposed to receive a guide therein, and the guide is secured to the outer shaft.

[0072] In Example 4, the subject matter of Examples 1-3 optionally includes wherein the inner shaft includes a second pair of axial tracks, the second pair of axial tracks aligned with the first pair of axial tracks and positioned to receive the guide therein.

[0073] In Example 5, the subject matter of Examples 1-4 optionally includes a second jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, where the second jaw includes a second set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion of the second jaw, each flange of the second set of flanges including a second track for receiving a drive pin, where a drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks to move the first jaw and the second jaw between the open and closed positions.

[0074] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 optionally includes a blade disposed within the inner shaft and drive bar, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis, the blade being translatable to extend between the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges, and the blade including a track configured to receive a drive pin.

[0075] In Example 7, the subject matter of Examples 1-6 optionally includes a blade disposed within the inner shaft and drive bar, where a first edge of the blade and a second edge of the blade do not contact the drive bar.

[0076] In Example 8, the subject matter of Examples 1-7 optionally includes a blade disposed within the inner shaft and the drive bar, wherein the first surface of the blade and the second surface of the blade do not contact the drive bar.

[0077] In Example 9, the subject matter of Examples 1-8 optionally includes, each drive bar strut includes a projection extending from a first edge of the drive bar strut forming an L-shaped plate.

[0078] In Example 10, the subject matter of Examples 1-9 optionally includes, where at least one drive bar strut includes a protrusion extending from a surface defining the blade channel, such that the protrusion extends into the blade channel.

[0079] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally includes wherein each drive bar strut includes a projection extending from a surface defining the blade channel, where the drive bar struts form an H-beam such that the projection of each drive bar strut extends into the blade channel.

[0080] In Example 12, the subject matter of Examples 1-11 optionally includes, wherein the pair of drive bar struts includes a first drive bar strut having a first blade channel surface and a second drive bar strut having a second blade channel surface, where the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut are separately coupled to the inner shaft.

[0081] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally includes, where the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut are not coupled together.

[0082] Example 14 provides a surgical forceps, the surgical forceps including a drive pin, an outer shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, a first jaw pivotable relative to the outer shaft, the first jaw including a first set of flanges, each first flange including a first track for receiving a drive pin, a second jaw connected to the outer shaft and an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, and a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft, the drive bar including a first drive bar strut extending from the inner shaft and separately coupled to the inner shaft, and a second drive bar strut extending from the inner shaft and separately coupled to the inner shaft, the drive pin connected to the first and second drive bars, the drive bar translatable within the outer shaft, translating the drive pin along the first set of tracks to move the first jaw between an open position and a closed position relative to the second jaw.

[0083] In Example 15, the subject matter of Example 14 optionally includes a second jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, where the second jaw includes a second set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion of the second jaw, each flange of the second set of flanges including a second track for receiving a drive pin, where a drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks to move the first jaw and the second jaw between the open and closed positions.

[0084] In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 optionally includes a drive bar disposed laterally inboard from the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges.

[0085] In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 15 optionally includes a blade disposed within the inner shaft and drive bar, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis, translatable to extend between the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges, the blade including a track configured to receive a drive pin.

[0086] In Example 18, the subject matter of Examples 14-17 optionally includes a blade extending along the longitudinal axis, the blade being translatable and extending between the first jaw and the second jaw, the blade being positioned laterally inward from the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut.

[0087] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally includes where a first edge of the blade and a second edge of the blade opposite the first edge are not covered by a portion of the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut.

[0088] In Example 20, the subject matter of Examples 14-19 optionally includes, wherein the first edge of the blade and the second edge of the blade do not contact the drive bar.

[0089] In Example 21, the subject matter of Examples 14-21 optionally includes where the first surface of the blade and the second surface of the blade do not contact the drive bar.

[0090] In Example 22, the subject matter of Examples 14-22 optionally includes, where the first drive bar strut is independent of and does not contact the second drive bar strut.

[0091] Example 23 provides a surgical forceps, the surgical forceps including a drive pin, an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis, a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first jaw including a first set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion thereof, each flange of the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving a drive pin, a second jaw connected to the outer tube, an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft, a pair of drive bars extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft to which the drive pin can be secured. a drive bar translatable within the outer shaft to drive a drive pin along a first set of tracks to move the first jaw between open and closed positions relative to the second jaw; and a blade disposed within the inner shaft and the drive bar translatable to extend between the first jaw and the second jaw, wherein each of the drive bar struts includes a projection extending from a first edge of the drive bar strut forming an L-shaped plate, wherein none of the first edge, second edge, first face, and second face of the blade contact the drive bar.

[0092] In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 optionally includes a second jaw pivotally connected to the outer tube, where the second jaw includes a second set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion of the second jaw, each flange of the second set of flanges including a second track for receiving a drive pin, where a drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks to move the first jaw and the second jaw between the open and closed positions.

[0093] In Example 25, the subject matter of Examples 23-25 ​​optionally includes, wherein the drive bar is disposed laterally inboard from the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges.

[0094] Example 26 provides a method of forming a portion of a surgical forceps, the method including coupling a first drive bar strut to an inner shaft such that a portion of the first drive bar strut extends distally from the inner shaft, and coupling a second drive bar strut to the inner shaft spaced from the first drive bar strut such that a portion of the second drive bar strut extends distally from the inner shaft, where the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut have distal ends disposed laterally medially from an outer surface of the inner shaft.

[0095] In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 optionally includes wherein coupling the first drive bar strut to the inner shaft and coupling the second drive bar strut to the inner shaft include inserting the first drive bar strut into a distal opening of the inner shaft and snap-fitting the first drive bar strut to the inner shaft, and inserting the second drive bar strut into a distal opening of the inner shaft and snap-fitting the second drive bar strut to the inner shaft.

[0096] In Example 28, the subject matter of Examples 26-27 optionally includes where coupling the first drive bar strut to the inner shaft and coupling the second drive bar strut to the inner shaft includes inserting the first drive bar strut into a first axial slot along a top surface of the inner shaft and inserting the second drive bar strut into a second axial slot along a bottom surface of the inner shaft.

[0097] In Example 29, the subject matter of Examples 26-28 optionally includes, wherein the first drive bar strut is identical to the second drive bar strut.

[0098] Example 30 is any one or combination of the examples or elements of Examples 1-29.

[0099] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the inventors also contemplate examples in which any combination or permutation of the shown or described elements (or one or more aspects thereof) is used with a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof) or with another example (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0100] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the inventors also contemplate examples in which any combination or permutation of the shown or described elements (or one or more aspects thereof) is used with a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof) or with another example (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0101] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used as is common in patent documents to include one or more, regardless of other instances or usages of "at least one" or "one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to non-exclusive or, unless specifically stated otherwise, "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B." In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the terms "comprising" and "wherein," respectively. Also, in the appended claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, i.e., systems, apparatus, articles, compositions, methods, or processes that include elements in addition to those elements after such terms are recited in the claim are deemed to be within the scope of the claim. Moreover, in the appended claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0102] The above description is intended to be illustrative, not limiting. For example, the above examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Alternative embodiments may be used by those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above. The Abstract is provided in accordance with 37 C.FR §1.72(b) to enable the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. The Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Moreover, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that any unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may reside in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the appended claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as an individual embodiment, and such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; an inner shaft extending through the outer shaft along the longitudinal axis; an elongated drive bar including a first drive bar strut and a second drive bar strut each extending through a lumen of the inner shaft along the longitudinal axis, the first drive bar strut including a first lateral portion extending laterally away from the longitudinal axis and the second drive bar strut including a second lateral portion extending laterally away from the longitudinal axis, whereby the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut each form an L-shaped cross-sectional profile perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a drive pin connected to the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut at a distal end of the elongated drive bar; a blade extending along the longitudinal axis and translatable along the longitudinal axis, the blade being disposed laterally between the first and second drive bar struts and between the first and second lateral portions. Surgical forceps.

2. 2. The surgical forceps of claim 1, wherein the L-shaped cross-sectional profile is arranged such that each of the first and second drive bar struts includes a respective short lateral bend portion that bends laterally at an angle away from a respective long lateral portion, and such that the long lateral portions of the first and second drive bar struts are arranged parallel to one another.

3. The jaw assembly further comprises: a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer shaft about a center of rotation, the first jaw having a first track sized and shaped to receive the drive pin therethrough; and a second jaw connected to the outer shaft.

4. 4. The surgical forceps of claim 3, wherein the elongated drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin into the first track to move the jaw assembly between a first position in which the first jaw and the second jaw are pivotally separated and a second position in which the first jaw is pivotally moved toward the second jaw.

5. an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; an inner shaft extending through the outer shaft along the longitudinal axis; A drive bar, a first drive bar strut and a second drive bar strut, each extending through the lumen of the inner shaft along the longitudinal axis and having an L-shaped profile along their respective lengths, the L-shaped profile being a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the respective drive bar strut, the L-shaped profile being oriented such that the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut include respective short lateral bends that bend laterally at an angle away from their respective longer lateral portions, and the respective longer lateral portions of the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut are oriented parallel to one another; a drive bar including a drive pin connected to the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut at a distal end of the drive bar; A jaw assembly comprising: a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer shaft about a center of rotation, the first jaw having a first track sized and shaped to receive the drive pin therethrough; a second jaw connected to the outer shaft; and a blade extending through the drive bar along the longitudinal axis and disposed between the first and second drive bar struts and parallel to the long lateral portions of each of the first and second drive bar struts; the blade is translatable to extend distally from the inner shaft beyond the center of rotation of the first jaw; the drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin into the first track to move the jaw assembly between a first position in which the first jaw and the second jaw are pivotally separated and a second position in which the first jaw is pivotally moved toward the second jaw; Surgical forceps.

6. the second jaw is pivotally connected to the outer shaft about the center of rotation; the second jaw has a second track sized and shaped to receive the drive pin therethrough; 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein the drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin into both the first and second tracks to move the first and second jaws between the first and second positions, respectively, where the first and second jaws are pivotably moved toward one another.

7. 7. The surgical forceps of claim 6, wherein lateral translation of the drive bar into the first and second tracks simultaneously pivots the first and second jaws about the center of rotation and toward one another.

8. Each of the first drive bar strut and the second drive bar strut has a drive pin opening sized and shaped to receive the drive pin therethrough; 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, further comprising: an axial track disposed proximate each of the drive pin openings, wherein a cross-sectional area defined by each respective drive pin opening is smaller than a cross-sectional area defined by a corresponding respective axial track.

9. 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein the inner shaft includes a first pair of mating features sized and shaped to respectively receive the short lateral bend portions of each of the first and second drive bar struts, the first pair of mating features mating with the first and second drive bar struts.

10. 10. The surgical forceps of claim 9, wherein the inner shaft includes a second pair of mating features sized and shaped to respectively receive the long lateral portions of each of the first and second drive bar struts.

11. 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein the first and second drive bar struts confine the blade on either side, thereby limiting rotation of the blade about the longitudinal axis and restricting longitudinal movement of the blade to a plane parallel to blade-side surfaces of the long lateral portions of the first and second drive bar struts, respectively.

12. 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein the first and second drive bar struts are positioned within the inner shaft such that the first and second drive bar struts do not contact one another.

13. 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein the first and second drive bar struts are positioned within the inner shaft such that the short lateral bend of the first drive bar strut contacts the long lateral portion of the second drive bar strut and the short lateral bend of the second drive bar strut contacts the long lateral portion of the first drive bar strut.

14. 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein the first and second drive bar struts are overlappable with one another, the first drive bar strut being disposed opposite the second drive bar strut at an angle of 175 degrees to 195 degrees relative to the second drive bar strut about the longitudinal axis.

15. 6. The surgical forceps of claim 5, wherein each of the short lateral bends protrudes from each of the corresponding long lateral portions along a first distal longitudinal portion of each of the drive bar struts and each of the short lateral bends does not protrude from each of the corresponding long lateral portions along a second proximal longitudinal portion of each of the drive bar struts.

16. A drive pin and an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; a first jaw pivotally connected to the outer shaft, the first jaw including a first set of flanges disposed at a proximal portion of the first jaw, each flange of the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving the drive pin; a second jaw connected to the outer shaft; an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis; a drive bar coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft, a pair of drive bar struts extending longitudinally from a distal portion of the inner shaft through a lumen of the inner shaft, the drive pins being securable to the pair of drive bar struts and the drive bar being translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pins along the first track of the first set to move the first jaw between open and closed positions relative to the second jaw; a blade disposed within the inner shaft and the drive bar, the blade translatable to extend between the first jaw and the second jaw; a drive bar including Equipped with each drive bar strut of the pair of drive bar struts includes a flange defining a plane that bends laterally away from and at an angle to intersect a plane defined by the drive bar strut, the flange also bending laterally at an angle away from the blade; Surgical forceps.

17. 17. The surgical forceps of claim 16, wherein the second jaw is pivotally connected to the outer shaft, wherein the second jaw includes a second set of flanges disposed on a proximal portion of the second jaw, each flange of the second set of flanges including a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive bar is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first track of the first set of flanges and the second track of the second set of flanges to move the first jaw and the second jaw between an open position and a closed position.

18. The surgical forceps of claim 17, wherein the drive bar is positioned laterally medially from the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges.

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