Surgical instrument having a predetermined separation mechanism for waste stream utilization and related methods

Abstract

The surgical instrument includes a shaft assembly, an end effector, an energy drive system, a circuit assembly, and a body assembly. The body assembly has a first shroud portion removably attached to a second shroud portion by a shroud coupling in a connected state. The shroud coupling removes the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state. The first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system. The first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for removal of at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Various ultrasonic surgical instruments include an end effector having a blade element that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies to cut and / or seal tissue (e.g., by denaturing proteins within the tissue cells). These instruments include one or more piezoelectric elements that convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations, which are transmitted along an acoustic waveguide to the blade element. Examples of ultrasonic surgical instruments and related concepts are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 0079874, titled "Tissue Pad for Use with an Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument," published on April 13, 2006, now abandoned, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007 / 0191713, titled "Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating," published on August 16, 2007, now abandoned, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008 / 0200940, titled "Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating," published on August 21, 2008, now abandoned, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Some instruments are operable to seal tissue by applying radiofrequency (RF) electrosurgical energy to the tissue. Examples of such devices and related concepts are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,354,440, titled "Electrosurgical Instrument and Method of Use," issued on April 8, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent No. 7,381,209, titled "Electrosurgical Instrument," issued on June 3, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Some instruments are capable of applying both ultrasonic energy and RF electrosurgical energy to tissue. Examples of such instruments include U.S. Patent No. 9,949,785, entitled "Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument with Electrosurgical Feature," issued on April 24, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 8,663,220, entitled "Ultrasonic Electrosurgical Instruments," issued on March 4, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 10,835,307, entitled "Modular Battery Powered Handheld Surgical Instrument Containing Elongated Multi-Layered Shaft," issued on November 17, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent No. 11,229,471, entitled "Modular Battery Powered Handheld Surgical Instrument with Selective Application of Energy Based on Tissue Characterization," issued on January 25, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] In some scenarios, it may be preferable to directly grip and manipulate a surgical instrument by one or more hands of one or more human operators. Additionally, or alternatively, it may be preferable to have a surgical instrument that is controlled via a robotic surgical system.Examples of robotic surgical systems and related instruments are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,624,709, entitled "Robotic Surgical Tool with Manual Release Lever," published on May 2, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 9,314,308, entitled "Robotic Ultrasonic Surgical Device With Articulating End Effector," issued on April 19, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 9,125,662, entitled "Multi-Axis Articulating and Rotating Surgical Tools," issued on September 8, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent No. 8,820,605, entitled "Robotically-Controlled Surgical Instruments," issued on September 2, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0201077, entitled "Interruption of Energy Due to Inadvertent Capacitive Coupling," published on July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0292367, entitled "Robotically-Controlled End Effector," published on November 11, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 556,661, entitled "Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument with a Multi-Planar Articulating Shaft Assembly," filed on August 30, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0005] Such instruments and robotic surgical systems may further be incorporated into a surgical system for performing procedures in a surgical environment such as an operating room or surgical suite within a medical facility. The sterile field is typically created around the patient and may include appropriately gowned, scrubbed medical personnel, as well as desired furniture and / or fixtures. Examples of such surgical systems and related mechanisms are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0201046, entitled "Method for Controlling Smart Energy Devices," published July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0201080, entitled "Ultrasonic Energy Device Which Varies Pressure Applied by Clamp Arm to Provide Threshold Control Pressure at a Cut Progression Location," published July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0201091, entitled "Radio Frequency Energy Device for Delivering Combined Electrical Signals," published July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0274717, entitled "Methods for Controlling Temperature in Ultrasonic Device," published September 12, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0207857, entitled "Surgical Network Determination of Prioritization of Communication, Interaction, or Processing Based on System or Device Needs," published July 4, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0006] Although several surgical instruments and systems have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors has made or used the invention as claimed in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] This specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim the technology. The technology, however, will be better understood from the following description of certain specific embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements.

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[0008] The drawings are not intended to limit in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the present technology can be implemented in various other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and forming a part of this specification illustrate some aspects of the present technology and, together with the description, explain the principles of the present technology. It is understood, however, that the present technology is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] The following description of specific embodiments of the present technology should not be used for the purpose of limiting its scope. Other embodiments, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is one of the best modes contemplated for practicing the present technology by way of example. As will be understood, the technologies described herein are capable of other different and obvious aspects without departing from the technology. Therefore, the drawings and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0010] It should be further understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Therefore, the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described below should not be considered in isolation from each other. Various suitable ways of combining the teachings of this specification will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0011] For the sake of clarity of the present disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein with respect to an operator of a surgical instrument, whether human or robotic. The term "proximal" means the position of an element that is closer to the operator of the surgical instrument, whether human or robotic, and further away from the surgical end effector of the surgical instrument. The term "distal" means the position of an element that is closer to the surgical end effector of the surgical instrument and further away from the operator of the surgical instrument, whether human or robotic. Additionally, the terms "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", "upper side", and "lower side" are used with respect to the embodiments and the associated figures and are not intended to unduly limit the invention described herein.

[0012] I. Example of a Surgical System Referring to FIG. 1, a computer-implemented interactive surgical system (100) includes one or more surgical systems (102) and a cloud-based system (e.g., a cloud (104) that may include a remote server (113) coupled to a storage device (105)). Each surgical system (102) in this example may include at least one surgical hub (106) that communicates with a cloud (104) that may include a remote server (113). In one example, as shown in FIG. 1, a surgical system (102) includes a visualization system (108), a robotic system (110), and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112), which are configured to communicate with each other and / or with hub 106. In some aspects, a surgical system (102) may include M hubs (106), N visualization systems (108), O robotic systems (110), and P handheld intelligent surgical instruments (112), where M, N, O, and P are integers greater than or equal to 1.

[0013] FIG. 2 shows an example of a surgical system (102) used to perform surgery on a patient lying on an operating table (114) within an operating room (116). A robotic system (110) is used as part of the surgical system 102 in a surgical procedure. The robotic system (110) includes a surgeon's console (118), a patient-side cart (120) (surgical robot), and a surgical robot hub (122). While the surgeon views the surgical site through the console (118), the patient-side cart (120) can manipulate a surgical tool (117) removably coupled to any of a plurality of surgical arms (123) through a minimally invasive incision in the patient's body. An image of the surgical site can be obtained by a medical imaging device (124) that can be manipulated by the patient-side cart (120) to change the orientation of the imaging device (124). The robot hub (122) can be used to process an image of the surgical site and then display it to the surgeon through the console (118).

[0014] Other types of robotic systems can be readily adapted for use with the surgical system (102). Various examples of robotic systems and surgical tools suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,339, filed on December 28, 2017, entitled "Robot Assisted Surgical Platform", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0015] Various examples of cloud-based analysis methods executed by the cloud (104) and suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,340, filed on December 28, 2017, entitled "Cloud-Based Medical Analytics", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0016] In various aspects, the imaging device (124) includes at least one image sensor and one or more optical components. Suitable image sensors include, but are not limited to, charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors and complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensors. In various aspects, the imaging device (124) is configured for use in minimally invasive procedures. Examples of imaging devices suitable for use with the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, arthroscopes, angioscopes, bronchoscopes, choledochoscopes, colonoscopes, cystoscopes, duodenoscopes, enteroscopes, esophagogastroduodenoscopes (stomach cameras), endoscopes, laryngoscopes, nasopharyngo-ureteroscopes, sigmoidoscopes, thoracoscopes, and ureteroscopes. Some aspects of spectral and multispectral imaging methods are described in detail in the "Advanced Imaging Acquisition Module" of U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 62 / 611,341, entitled "Interactive Surgical Platform," filed on December 28, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] During any surgical procedure, strict sterilization of the operating room and surgical equipment is required. The strict hygiene and sterilization conditions required in the "operating room," i.e., the operating room or procedure room, require the highest possible sterility of all medical devices and equipment. Part of that sterilization process requires sterilizing anything that comes into contact with the patient or penetrates the sterile field. It will be understood that the sterile field can be considered a specific area that is considered to be free of microorganisms, such as within a tray or on a sterile towel, or the sterile field can be considered the area immediately surrounding a patient who is prepared for surgery. The sterile field can include properly attired and scrubbed team members, as well as all supplies and fixtures within that area.

[0018] In addition to the introduction of any mechanism of a surgical system (100), furniture, or fixture into a sterile field that requires sterilization, particularly when such a mechanism comes into contact with, or is presumed to have come into contact with, a patient who includes any tissue and / or fluid associated with a surgical procedure, additional complications can arise from the removal of these mechanisms from the sterile field. Such contamination of these mechanisms from the patient often requires special consideration during or after a surgical procedure, particularly when processing these mechanisms for disposal, reuse, or remanufacture as needed. In one example, the surgical system (100) and / or healthcare providers associated with a surgical procedure can be particularly equipped to handle such processing, as described in more detail below.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, the primary display (119) is positioned within the sterile field so as to be visible to the operator of the operating table (114). In addition, the visualization tower (111) is positioned outside the sterile field. The visualization tower (111) includes a first non-sterile display (107) and a second non-sterile display (109) facing opposite each other. The visualization system (108) guided by the hub (106) is configured to utilize the displays (107, 109, 119) to coordinate the flow of information to the operators inside and outside the sterile field. For example, the hub (106) can cause the visualization system (108) to display a snapshot of the surgical site recorded by the imaging device (124) on the non-sterile display (107) or (109) while maintaining a live video of the surgical site on the primary display (119). The snapshot on the non-sterile display (107) or display (109) can, for example, permit a non-sterile operator to perform diagnostic steps associated with the surgical procedure.

[0020] In one aspect, the hub (106) is also configured to send diagnostic inputs or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualization tower (111) to a primary display (119) within the sterile field, so that it can be viewed by a sterile operator at the operating table. In one example, the input can be in the form of a modification to a snapshot displayed on a non-sterile display (107) or display (109) that can be sent by the hub (106) to the primary display (119).

[0021] Referring to FIG. 2, the surgical instrument (112) is used as part of a surgical system (102) in a surgical procedure. The hub (106) is also configured to regulate the flow of information to a display of the surgical instrument (112), such as, for example, as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,341, entitled "Interactive Surgical Platform," filed Dec. 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Diagnostic inputs or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator at the visualization tower (111) can be sent by the hub (106) to a surgical instrument display (115) within the sterile field, so that it can be viewed by the operator of the surgical instrument (112). Exemplary surgical instruments suitable for use with the surgical system (102) are described, for example, in the "Surgical Instrument Hardware" section of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,341, entitled "Interactive Surgical Platform," filed Dec. 28, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0022] Referring now to FIG. 3, a hub (106) is shown that communicates with a visualization system (108), a robotic system (110), and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument (112). The hub (106) includes a hub display (135), an imaging module (138), a generator module (140), a communication module (130), a processor module (132), and a storage array (134). In certain aspects, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the hub (106) further includes a smoke evacuation module (126) and / or a suction / irrigation module (128).

[0023] During surgery, applying energy to tissue for sealing and / or cutting is generally associated with smoke evacuation, suction of excess fluid, and / or irrigation of tissue. Fluid lines, power lines, and / or data lines from different sources often become entangled during surgery. Valuable time can be lost in addressing this problem during surgery. Untangling the lines may require removing the lines from their corresponding modules, which may in turn require resetting the modules. The hub module enclosure (136) provides an integrated environment for managing power lines, data lines, and fluid lines, reducing the frequency of such line entanglements.

[0024] Referring to FIGS. 3-4, aspects of the present disclosure are presented regarding a hub module type enclosure (136) that enables modular integration of a generator module (140), a smoke exhaust module (126), and a suction / irrigation module (128). The hub module type enclosure (136) further facilitates interactive communication between the modules (140, 126, 128). As shown in FIG. 4, the generator module (140) may be a generator module including integrated monopole components, bipolar components, and ultrasonic components supported within a single housing unit (139) slidably insertable into the hub module type enclosure (136). As shown in FIG. 4, the generator module (140) can be configured to connect to a monopole device (146), a bipolar device (147), and an ultrasonic device (148). Alternatively, the generator module (140) may include a series of monopole generator modules, bipolar generator modules, and / or ultrasonic generator modules that interact via the hub module type enclosure (136). The hub module type enclosure (136) can be configured to facilitate the insertion of multiple generators and interactive communication between the generators docked to the hub module type enclosure (136) such that the multiple generators function as a single generator.

[0025] FIG. 5 shows one form of a generator (150) and various surgical instruments (152, 154, 156) that can be used therewith. The surgical instrument (152) is an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), the surgical instrument (154) is an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), and the multifunctional surgical instrument (156) is an ultrasonic / RF combined electrosurgical instrument (156). The generator (150) is configurable for use with various surgical instruments. According to various forms, the generator (150) can be configured for use with various surgical instruments of different types, including, for example, an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), an RF electrosurgical instrument (154), and a multifunctional surgical instrument (156) that integrates RF energy and ultrasonic energy simultaneously delivered from the generator (150). The generator (150) in the present example of FIG. 5 is shown separately from the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156), but the generator (150) may alternatively be formed integrally with any of the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156) to form a single surgical system. The generator (150) includes an input device (158) located on the front panel of the console of the generator (150). The input device (158) can include any suitable device that generates a signal suitable for programming the operation of the generator (150). The generator (150) may be configured for wired or wireless communication.

[0026] The generator (150) in this example is configured to drive a plurality of surgical instruments (152, 154, 156). An example of such a surgical instrument is an ultrasonic surgical instrument (152), which includes a handpiece (160), an ultrasonic transducer 162, a shaft assembly (164), and an end effector (166). The end effector (166) includes an ultrasonic blade (168) and a clamp arm (170) that are acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer (162). The handpiece (160) includes a trigger (172) for operating the clamp arm (170) and a combination of toggle buttons (173, 174, 175) for supplying and driving energy to the ultrasonic blade (168) or other functions. The toggle buttons (173, 174, 175) can be configured to supply energy to the ultrasonic transducer (162) using the generator (150).

[0027] The generator (150) is also configured to drive another example of a surgical instrument (154). The RF electrosurgical instrument (154) includes a handpiece (176), a shaft assembly (178), and an end effector (180). The end effector (180) includes electrodes within the clamp arms (181, 182) and returns through the electrical conductor portion of the shaft assembly (178). The electrodes are coupled to a bipolar energy source within the generator (150) and are supplied with energy by the bipolar energy source. The handpiece (176) includes a trigger (183) for operating the clamp arms (181, 182) and an energy button (184) for actuating an energy switch for supplying energy to the electrodes within the end effector (180).

[0028] The generator (150) is also configured to drive a multi-functional surgical instrument (156). The multi-functional surgical instrument (156) includes a handpiece (185), a shaft assembly (186), and an end effector (188). The end effector (188) includes an ultrasonic blade (190) and a clamp arm (192). The ultrasonic blade (190) is acoustically coupled to an ultrasonic transducer (162). The handpiece (185) includes a trigger (194) for operating the clamp arm (192) and a combination of toggle buttons (195, 196, 197) for supplying energy to and driving the ultrasonic blade (190) or other functions. The toggle buttons (195, 196, 197) can be configured to supply energy to the ultrasonic transducer (162) using the generator (150) and, similarly, to supply energy to the ultrasonic blade (190) using a bipolar energy source housed within the generator (150). It will be understood that the handpieces (160, 176, 185) may be replaced with robotic-controlled instruments for incorporating one or more aspects of the surgical instruments (152, 154, 156). Thus, the term "handpiece" should not be limited to this context and handheld use.

[0029] As used throughout this specification, the term "wireless" and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc. that can communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation via a non-solid medium. This term does not mean that the associated devices do not include any wired connections, but in some embodiments, they may not be present. The communication module may implement any of several wireless or wired communication standards or protocols, including but not limited to Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11 family), WMAX (IEEE802.16 family), IEEE802.20, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Ev-DO, HSPA+, HSDPA+, HSUPA+, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, CDMA, TDMA, DECT, Bluetooth, derivatives of these Ethernet, and any other wireless and wired protocols designated as 3G, 4G, 5G and later. The computing module may include a plurality of communication modules. For example, the first communication module may be dedicated to short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and the second communication module may be dedicated to long-range wireless communication such as GPS, EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE, Ev-DO.

[0030] As used in this specification, a processor or processing unit is an electronic circuit that performs operations on some external data source (usually memory) or some other data stream. In this specification, this term is used to refer to the central processor (central processing unit) within a system or computer system (especially a system on a chip (SoC)) that combines many specialized "processors".

[0031] As used herein, a system-on-chip (SoC or SOC) is an integrated circuit (also known as an "IC" or "chip") that integrates all the components of a computer or other electronic system. This can include digital, analog, mixed-signal, and in many cases high-frequency functions, all on a single substrate. An SoC integrates a microcontroller (or microprocessor) with state-of-the-art peripherals such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), Wi-Fi module or coprocessor. An SoC may or may not include on-chip memory.

[0032] As used herein, a microcontroller or controller is a system that integrates a microprocessor with peripheral circuits and memory. A microcontroller (or MCU of a microcontroller unit) may be implemented as a small computer on a single integrated circuit. This may be similar to an SoC, which may include a microcontroller as one of its components. A microcontroller may house memory and programmable input / output peripherals along with one or more core processing units (CPUs). Program memory in the form of ferroelectric RAM, NOR flash or OTP ROM and a small amount of RAM are also often included on the chip. A microcontroller can be used for embedded applications, as opposed to microprocessors used in personal computers or other general-purpose applications consisting of various discrete chips.

[0033] As used herein, the term controller or microcontroller may be a stand-alone IC or chip device that interfaces with peripheral devices. This may also be the linkage between two parts of a computer or controller on an external device that manages the operation of the device (and the connection to that device). A modular device includes a module that can be received within a surgical hub (e.g., as described in connection with FIG. 3), and a surgical device or instrument that can be connected to various modules to connect or pair with a corresponding surgical hub. Examples of modular devices include, for example, intelligent surgical instruments, medical imaging devices, aspiration / irrigation devices, smoke evacuators, energy generators, ventilators, inhalers, and displays. The modular devices described herein can be controlled by a control algorithm. The control algorithm can be executed on the modular device itself, on the surgical hub to which a particular modular device is paired, or on both the modular device and the surgical hub (e.g., via a distributed computing architecture). In some examples, the control algorithm of a modular device controls the device based on data sensed by the modular device itself (i.e., by sensors within, on, or connected to the modular device). This data may be related to the patient during surgery (e.g., tissue characteristics or insufflation pressure), or may be related to the modular device itself (e.g., the speed of a advancing knife, motor current, or energy level). For example, the control algorithms for surgical stapling and cutting instruments can control the speed at which the motor of the instrument drives the knife through tissue according to the resistance generated by the knife as it advances.

[0034] II. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating a Selectively Detachable Shroud In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument (1000) similar to any one or more of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156) that can deliver ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic and RF energy, which can be easily opened to provide access to internal components and separated into separate waste streams with minimal tools, such as without additional tools. Surgical procedures are typically performed within a sterile field as described above. A sterile field free of microorganisms allows the surgical team to reduce the chance of infection by ensuring that only sterilized equipment and tools are used within the sterile field. Surgical instruments are sterilized, packaged within a sterile container, and sent to the sterile field. A medical professional may be required to disassemble the surgical instrument within the sterile field after the surgical procedure, either by hand or using tools provided within the sterile container. For example, a torque wrench provided to assemble the surgical instrument may have an additional mechanism for disassembling the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument includes additional mechanisms that facilitate the disassembly and removal of internal components. These additional mechanisms help to selectively break the internal components, and thus the components can be placed into separate waste streams. These separate waste streams are pre-determined based on the material of the component or the use of the component. For example, the waste streams may include recycling, disposal, or reclamation. Components placed within the flow of the disposal waste stream are disposed of in a landfill. Components placed within the recycling waste stream may be further separated, shredded, and melted into base components. Components placed within the reclamation waste stream are cleaned, tested, repaired, and re-equipped within another surgical instrument. For example, the plastic and metal components of a shroud may be separated into one waste stream for disposal, the heavy metals from an integrated circuit may be separated into a second waste stream for recycling, and the ultrasonic transducer may be separated into a third waste stream for reclamation.

[0035] Figures 6A-6B illustrate an example of a surgical instrument (1000) similar to the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156) configured to treat tissue. The surgical instrument (1000) can be configured to deliver ultrasonic energy, radio frequency (RF) energy, or both. Additionally, the surgical instrument may be configured to be handheld or to mate with a corresponding portion of a robotic arm (see FIG. 8A). The surgical instrument (1000), similar to the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156), includes a body assembly (1010), a shaft assembly (1020), and an end effector (1030). The shaft (1022) of the shaft assembly (1020) extends distally from the body assembly (1010) to the end effector (1030). The surgical instrument (1000) differs from the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156) in that the surgical instrument (1000) includes a body assembly, which is configured to be easily disassembled and exposed to remove at least one of a plurality of internal components for disposal in a separate waste stream.

[0036] The surgical instrument (1000) of this example is configured to deliver ultrasonic energy similar to that of the surgical instrument (152). The body assembly (1010) surrounds a part of the energy drive system (1040) and a part of the circuit assembly (1050). The energy drive system (1040), in this version, includes an ultrasonic transducer (1042), a waveguide (1044), and an ultrasonic blade (1046). The energy drive system (1040) may further include a battery (1048) or a generator (150) (see FIG. 5) configured to supply energy. The ultrasonic transducer (1042) is positioned proximally within the body assembly (1010) and extends distally to the waveguide (1044). The waveguide (1044) extends distally through the shaft assembly (1020) to the ultrasonic blade (1046). The circuit assembly (1050) includes a main circuit board (1052), a memory member (1054), and a controller (1056). The circuit assembly (1050) can communicate electrically with a power source such as the battery (1048) or the generator (150) (see FIG. 5) and is operably connected to the energy drive system (1040).

[0037] The body assembly (1010) includes a plurality of selectively removable shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018). The shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) are configured to provide support for an energy drive system (1040), a shaft assembly (1020), and a circuit assembly (1050). The shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) further block access to a part of the energy drive system (1040) and a part of the circuit assembly (1050). As shown, the shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) include a first shroud portion (1012), a second shroud portion (1014), a third shroud portion (1016), and a fourth shroud portion (1018), but may include any number of shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) that block access to the circuit assembly (1050) and the energy drive system (1040). This configuration of the shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) is merely an example and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention. Each shroud portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) is removably fixed to another shroud portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) at a shroud edge (1002). The shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) are joined to each other at the shroud edge (1002) with a shroud coupling (1004). The shroud coupling (1004) connects two adjacent shroud edges (1002) during normal operation of the surgical instrument (1000) in the connected state. The magnetic fastener in the form of the shroud coupling (1004) includes a first magnetic member (1006) and a second magnetic member (1008). One of the first magnetic member (1006) or the second magnetic member (1008) includes a rare earth magnet or an electromagnet. The other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member (1006, 1008) includes a rare earth magnet, an electromagnet, or a ferromagnetic metal. Ferromagnetic metals include, but are not limited to, iron, cobalt, or nickel. The first magnetic member (1006) is attracted to the second magnetic member (1008) by a magnetic field (MF).The magnetic field (MF) includes a force sufficient to keep the adjacent shroud edges (1002) of the shroud parts (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) in a connected state during operation, but allows the user to shift the shroud parts (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to a non-connected state (see FIG. 6B) after operation. The user can remove the shroud parts (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to provide access to a part of the energy-driven system (1040) and a part of the circuit assembly (1050) in the non-connected state (see FIG. 6B). When accessed, a part of the energy-driven system (1040) and a part of the circuit assembly (1050) may be disposed of as separate waste streams. It should be noted that the shroud parts (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) may include a gripping mechanism (1024) positioned outside the shroud parts (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) to facilitate the opening of the shroud parts (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018).

[0038] The shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) further include a plurality of alignment mechanisms (1026) configured to align each shroud portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) with an adjacent shroud portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018). The alignment mechanism (1026) facilitates translating the shroud portion (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) from a connected state to a disconnected state (see FIG. 6B) and prevents the shroud portions (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) from coupling when removed from each other. Additionally, the alignment mechanism (1026) facilitates aligning the first magnetic member (1006) and the second magnetic member (1008) when assembling the surgical instrument (1000). An example of the alignment mechanism (1026) includes a key (1028) positioned on one of the first shroud portion (1012) or the second shroud portion (1014) and a keyway (1032) positioned on the other of the first shroud portion (1012) or the second shroud portion (1014). The key (1028) is sized to slide within the keyway (1032). The key (1028) and the keyway (1032) include complementary shapes such as circular, rectangular, square, or triangular. The shroud edge (1002) may overlap to join the key (1028) with the keyway (1032), or at least one of the key (1028) or the keyway (1032) extends beyond one of the shroud edges (1002) and may join with the other of the key (1028) or the keyway (1032).

[0039] FIG. 6B shows the surgical instrument (1000) after transitioning to the disconnected state. In the disconnected state, the shrouds (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) are separated from each other. For example, the third shroud (1016) is manually moved horizontally away from the first shroud (1012). The second shroud (1014) is manually moved vertically away from the first shroud (1012). The fourth shroud (1018) is manually moved obliquely away from the first shroud (1012), separating the shroud coupling portion (1004). The alignment mechanism (1026) facilitates the movement of the transducer shroud in the horizontal path, the movement of the second shroud (1014) in the vertical path, and the movement of the fourth shroud (1018) in the oblique path. The removal of the shrouds (1012, 1014, 1016, 1018) facilitates access to at least a portion of the energy drive system (1040) and at least a portion of the circuit assembly (1050).

[0040] FIG. 7A shows one form of a surgical instrument (1100) that is similar to the surgical instrument (1000), unless otherwise described herein. The surgical instrument (1100) is shown in a connected state. The surgical instrument (1100) includes, like the surgical instrument (1000), a body assembly (1110), a shaft assembly (1120), and an end effector (1130). The body assembly (1110) is located proximally with respect to the shaft assembly (1120). The shaft assembly (1120) includes a shaft (1122) that extends distally from the body assembly (1110) to the end effector (1130). The end effector (1130) includes an ultrasonic blade (1146). The body assembly (1110) includes a plurality of shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) configured to block access to a part of the energy drive system (1140) and a part of the circuit assembly (1150). The shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) are connected by a magnetic fastener in the form of a magnetic lock assembly (1134) at complementary shroud edges (1102) of the shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118). The magnetic lock assembly (1134) includes a first magnetic member (1106), a second magnetic member (1108), a magnetic lock (1135), and a lock key (1136). The magnetic lock assembly (1134) is different from the shroud coupling portion (1004) of the surgical instrument (1000) in that the magnetic lock assembly (1134) is configured to prevent the shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) from inadvertently moving away from another shroud portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) without further action by the user. The first magnetic member and the second magnetic member (1106, 1108) may include a rare earth magnet, an electromagnet, or a ferromagnetic metal. The magnetic lock (1135) may also be configured as a solenoid (not shown). The solenoid may include an electromagnet and a ferromagnetic metal rod.The solenoid may be positioned on a shroud portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) having a bore or opening on another shroud portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118). The ferromagnetic rod is positioned within the strike plate and maintains the shroud portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) in a connected state. The solenoid may be configured to move the ferromagnetic rod laterally, longitudinally, or obliquely relative to the shroud edge (1102) and within the strike plate. In some versions, the circuit assembly (1150) may be configured to communicate electrically with the magnetic lock (1135). A magnetic lock (1135) controlled by the circuit assembly (1150) can be fitted to each shroud edge (1102) of the shroud portion (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118). Such a version of the circuit assembly (1150) can shift all the magnetic locks (1135) from the locked state to the unlocked state and vice versa.

[0041] The magnetic lock assembly (1134) further includes a lock key (1136) separable from the magnetic lock (1134) in this example, and the magnetic members (1106, 1108) are separated from the magnetic lock (1134). In this version, the lock key (1136) removes electricity from the electromagnet, thereby removing the magnetic field, and when the lock key (1136) is removed from the magnetic lock assembly (1134), the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member (1106, 1108) ceases. As an alternative, the lock key (1136) may be inserted into the magnetic lock assembly (1134) to shift the magnetic lock (1135) from the locked state to the unlocked state. The lock key (1136) can remove electricity by short - circuiting an electrical circuit (not shown), by breaking an electrical circuit (not shown), or by energizing a switch (not shown).

[0042] In some versions, the lock key (1136) shifts the magnetic lock (1135) from a locked state to an unlocked state by physically separating one of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member (1106, 1108) from the other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member (1106, 1108), thereby reducing the magnetic attraction force between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member (1106, 1108). In such versions, the magnetic lock (1135), the first magnetic member (1106), and the second magnetic member (1108) are in proximity to each other. This reduced magnetic attraction force or lack of magnetic attraction force enables the user to manually separate the shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118).

[0043] FIG. 7B shows a surgical instrument (1100) in a disconnected state after the magnetic lock assembly (1134) has transitioned from a locked state to an unlocked state. The body assembly further includes a gripping mechanism (1124) configured to facilitate gripping the shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) to separate the shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) from each other, and an alignment mechanism (1126) such as a key (1128) and a keyway (1132) configured to assist in aligning the shroud portions (1112, 1114, 1116, 1118) when removed from each other. In this version, the alignment mechanism is separate from and remote from the magnetic lock assembly (1134) and / or the magnetic members (1108, 1106). In some versions, the alignment mechanism (1126) is incorporated into the magnetic lock assembly (1134) and / or the magnetic members (1108, 1106).

[0044] Figures 8A - 10 illustrate one form of a surgical instrument (1200) similar to the surgical instrument (1000) configured to deliver electrical energy to treat tissue. The surgical instrument (1200) as shown is configured to be fitted to a corresponding part of a robotic arm, although it may be configured as a handheld surgical instrument as shown in Figures 6A - 7B. The surgical instrument (1200) is shown in electrical communication with a generator (150) (see Figure 5). The generator (150) is configured to supply energy to the surgical instrument (1200). The surgical instrument (1200), like the surgical instrument (1000), includes a body assembly (1210), a shaft assembly (1220), and an end effector (1230). The shaft assembly (1220) extends distally from the body assembly (1210) to the end effector (1230).

[0045] The body assembly (1210) is configured to be disassembled to expose a portion of the energy drive system (1240) and a portion of the circuit assembly (1250). The body assembly (1210) includes a plurality of shroud portions (1212, 1214) having an upper shroud portion (1212) and a lower shroud portion (1214) configured to be coupled to each other at shroud couplings in the form of push pins (1204, 1260). The push pins (1204, 1260) may be composed of nylon or any other material known in the art to have elastic properties. More specifically, the push pin (1204) is a two-piece push pin (1204), and the push pin (1260) is a single-piece push pin (1260). The two-piece push pin (1204) of this example includes a shank (1206), a shank head (1208) (see FIG. 9), a pin (1234) (see FIG. 9), and a pin head (1236) (see FIG. 9). The one-piece push pin (1260) of this example includes a shank (1262), a plurality of elastic ribs (1264) (see FIG. 10) positioned along the shank (1262), and a shank head (1266) positioned at the proximal end of the shank (1262). The upper shroud portion (1212) defines an upper bore (1216), and the lower shroud portion (1214) defines a lower bore (1218). FIG. 8A shows the upper bore (1216) aligned with the lower bore (1218) and fitted with the push pins (1204, 1260) in a connected state. The push pin (1204) presses the upper shroud portion (1212) against the lower shroud portion (1214) and holds the upper shroud portion (1212) in a connected state with respect to the lower shroud portion (1214). Note that the surgical instrument (1200) may include all of one type of push pin (1204, 1206) or two or more types of push pins (1204, 1206). In this version, the surgical instrument (1200) includes both a two-piece push pin (1204) and a one-piece push pin (1206).

[0046] The two-piece pushpin (1204) is installed by first inserting the shank (1206) into the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218) such that the shank head (1208) rests on the surface adjacent to the upper bore (1216). Prior to insertion, the shank (1206) remains in a non-expanded state sized to fit within the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). The pin (1234) is pressed into the bore of the shank (1208) until the pin head (1236) seats on top of the shank head (1206). At the installation position, the distal portion of the shank (1206) is expanded to an expanded state by the pin (1234) and has a diameter larger than the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). The expanded shank (1206) axially pulls the upper shroud portion (1212) toward the lower shroud portion (12140). Installing the pin (1234) distally within the shank (1206) results in a distal portion of the shank (1206) having an outer diameter larger than the distal portion of the shank (1206) prior to the pin (1234) being installed within the shank (1206).

[0047] The one-piece pushpin (1260) is installed by pressing on the top of the shank head (1266) while guiding the distal end of the shank (1262) into the upper and lower bores (1216, 1218). The one-piece pushpin (1260) is installed with the shank head (1266) positioned on the first side of the upper bore (1216) and the proximal-most rib (1264) positioned on the distal side of the lower bore (1218) such that the pushpin (1260) resists removal of the upper shroud portion (1212) from the lower shroud portion (1214).

[0048] Other versions of the pushpin (not shown) can be configured for manual operation without additional tools. These other versions operate similarly to a blind rivet, but have an actuator (not shown), a spring (not shown), a pin (not shown), and a shank (not shown). The actuator is moved by a user translation pin within the shank (not shown). The outer diameter of the shank is reduced so that the pushpin can be retracted through the upper bore and the lower bore (1216, 1218), and the upper shroud portion and the lower shroud portion (1216, 1218) are transitioned from a connected state to a disconnected state.

[0049] FIG. 8B shows a surgical instrument (1200) in a disconnected state in which the pushpins (1204, 1260) have been removed from the upper bore and the lower bore (1216, 1218). In the disconnected state, the body assembly (1210) provides access to a part of the energy drive system (1240) and a part of the circuit assembly (1250) for removal and disposal in a separate waste stream. The upper shroud portion and the lower shroud portion (1212, 1214) can include a gripping mechanism (1224) that assists in removing the upper shroud portion (1212) from the lower shroud portion (1214), and an alignment mechanism (1226) that provides alignment of the upper bore and the lower bore (1216, 1218). Alignment mechanisms (1226) such as a key (1228) positioned on one of the upper shroud portion (1212) or the lower shroud portion (1214), and a keyway (1232) positioned on the other of the upper shroud portion (1212) or the lower shroud portion (1214).

[0050] FIG. 9 shows a pushpin (1204) removed from the upper shroud portion and the lower shroud portion (1212, 1214) by a torque wrench (1270) including a fork-shaped member (1272). The pushpin (1204) may be constructed of nylon or some other material known in the art to have elastic properties.

[0051] FIG. 10 shows an integral pushpin 1260 including a shank 1262, a plurality of resilient ribs 1264 positioned along the shank 1262, and a shank head 1266 positioned at the proximal end of the shank 1262. The pushpin 1260 is also constructed of nylon or some other material known in the art to have elastic properties. The pushpin 1260 can also be removed by applying torque to the pushpin 1260 by prying open the shank head 1266 using a fork-shaped member 1272.

[0052] III. EXEMPLARY SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATING SELECTIVELY SEPARABLE CIRCUIT ASSEMBLIES In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument that includes components capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic and RF energy, and that is easily opened such that internal components can be separated into distinct waste streams with minimal tools, such as without tools, within a sterile field. These surgical instruments remain intact during normal use but are configured to facilitate disassembly of internal components and / or selectively break internal components. One such internal component is a circuit assembly configured to be separated by one or more hands of a user into distinct parts having different characteristics. The separate parts of the circuit assembly are placed into predetermined distinct waste streams. These waste streams include, but are not limited to, recycling, disposal, or reclamation.

[0053] Figures 11A - 11B show a portion of a surgical instrument (1300) similar to the surgical instrument (1000), unless otherwise specified in this specification. The surgical instrument (1300) includes a shaft assembly (not shown) that extends distally from the body assembly (1310) to an end effector (not shown). The body assembly (1310) includes a plurality of shroud portions (1312) similar to the surgical instrument (1000). The upper shroud portion (not shown) has been removed from the lower shroud portion (1312) to expose a portion of the circuit assembly (1350). The circuit assembly (1350) includes a main circuit board (1352) and a plurality of sub - boards (1354). The lower shroud portion (1312) provides support for the circuit assembly (1350) and the energy drive assembly (1340). The main circuit board (1352) includes an integrated circuit (1358) configured to provide electrical communication between a memory member (1356), a controller (1360), an input (not shown), and an output (not shown). In some versions, the sub - board (1354) includes the memory member (1356) and the controller (1360). In this version, the main circuit board (1352) includes the integrated controller (1360), and the sub - board (1354) includes the memory member (1356). Figure 11A shows the sub - board (1354) inserted into the main circuit board (1352) in an installed position communicating with the controller (1360) via the integrated circuit (1358).

[0054] FIG. 11B shows a sub-substrate (1354) having a memory member (1356) shown in a non-mounted position. The memory member (1356) in the non-mounted position is removed from the main circuit board (1352). The memory member (1356) may include an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), an erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”), a programmable read-only memory (“PROM”), a read-only memory (“ROM”), a random access memory (“RAM”), or other suitable forms of memory known in the art for use with a circuit assembly. The sub-substrate (1354) includes a plurality of prongs (1362) configured to removably couple with respective receptacles (1364) defined by the main circuit board (1352). The arrangement of the prongs (1362) and the receptacles (1364) may be reversed such that the prongs (1362) are located on the main circuit board (1352) and the receptacles (1364) are located on the sub-substrate (1354). The prongs (1362) provide electrical communication between the sub-substrate (1354) and the main circuit board (1352). The sub-substrate (1354) may be removed from the main circuit board (1352) for disposal in a different waste stream than the main circuit board (1352). For example, the sub-substrate (1354) may be recycled and reused, and the main circuit board (1352) may be recycled, but such distribution is merely an example and is not intended to limit the present invention unnecessarily.

[0055] Figures 12-13 show a portion of a surgical instrument (1400) similar to the surgical instrument (1300), unless otherwise noted in this specification. A surgical instrument (1400) such as the surgical instrument (1300) includes a circuit assembly (1450) configured to be disassembled into separate parts for disposal in separate waste streams. FIG. 12 shows a portion of a body assembly (1410) with an upper shroud portion (not shown) removed to expose the circuit assembly (1450). The circuit assembly (1450) includes a main circuit board (1452) and a sub-board (1454). The main circuit board (1452) and the sub-board (1454) are shown in an undamaged state. The surgical instrument (1400) differs from the surgical instrument (1300) in that the sub-board (1454) is fixedly coupled to the main circuit board (1452), and the main circuit board (1452) includes a frangible separator (1462) configured to connect a first circuit portion (1464) to a second circuit portion (1466) in an operable state. The frangible separator (1462) can include a perforation, a continuous hole, a weakened portion, or any other separation mechanism known in the art that facilitates breaking the circuit board along a predetermined path. In an operable state, the frangible separator (1462) enables electrical communication along the circuit assembly (1450), such as electrical communication across the frangible separator (1462).

[0056] FIG. 13 shows a circuit assembly (1450) in a separated state where a first circuit portion (1464) is separated from a second circuit portion (1466). The first circuit portion (1464) may be separated from the second circuit portion (1466) by breaking a fragile separator (1462) with one or more hands of a user or the like. The first circuit portion (1464) may include components that require the first circuit portion (1664) to be disposed in a waste stream separate from the second circuit portion (1466). For example, the sub-substrate (1454) may have a memory member (1456) that is not suitable for readjustment or recycling disposed in a disposal waste stream, and the second circuit portion (1466) may include an integrated circuit (1458) containing heavy metals that require readjustment or recycling, but such a configuration is merely an example and is not intended to unduly limit the present invention.

[0057] FIGS. 14A - 14B show a part of a surgical instrument (1500) similar to the surgical instrument (1400), unless otherwise described herein. The body assembly (1510) of this example includes a first shroud portion (1512), a second shroud portion (1514), and a latch (1516). The first shroud portion (1512) provides support for a part of an energy drive system (1540) and a part of a circuit assembly (1550). The second shroud portion (1514) blocks access to the circuit assembly (1550). The second shroud portion (1514) is removably fixed to the first shroud portion (1512) with the latch (1516) in a fixed position. FIG. 14A shows a circuit assembly (1550) having a memory member (1556) in an operable state where the latch (1516) is in a closed position and the second shroud portion (1514) is connected to the first shroud portion (1512). The above-described memory member (1556) may include RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any other suitable form of memory known in the art.

[0058] FIG. 14B shows a circuit assembly (1550) in a non-operational state after the latch (1516) has transitioned to the open position. The latch (1516) includes a rare earth magnet that uses a magnetic field to cause an interruption of an electrical signal or magnetic pulse that damages or scrambles the memory within the memory member (1556). The latch (1516) transitions from a fixed position to a non-fixed position. Before the second shroud portion (1514) is fully opened, the latch (1516) passes close to the memory member (1556), thereby rendering the data contained in the memory member (1556) unreadable. By way of example, the latch (1516) may have a Hall effect sensor with an integrated magnet that allows the circuit assembly (1550) to initiate a sequence that renders the data unreadable, such as a reset, rewrite, or scramble that erases or destroys the memory. In another version, the latch (1516) includes a magnet that passes a magnetic field near the memory member (1556) that erases or destroys the memory.

[0059] FIG. 15 shows a portion of a surgical instrument (1600) similar to the surgical instrument (1500), unless otherwise described herein. Similar to the surgical instrument (1500), the surgical instrument (1600) includes a body assembly (1610) having a first shroud portion (1612) connected to a second shroud portion (1614) by a latch (1616). The body assembly (1610) houses, supports, and blocks access to a circuit assembly (1650). The circuit assembly (1650) includes a memory member (1656), a main circuit board (1652), and a flexible circuit (1654). The memory member (1656) described above may include memory such as RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any other suitable form of memory known in the art. The memory member (1656) and / or a controller (1660) communicate electrically with the main circuit board (1652) via the flexible circuit (1654). The flexible circuit (1654) allows the memory member (1656) to be separated and remotely located from the main circuit board (1652). In some versions, the memory member (1656) may be directly connected to the main circuit board (1652) by soldering or using a plug and receptacle. The surgical instrument (1600) includes a latch (1616) that communicates electrically with the memory member (1656) via a cable (1618). The latch (1616) can move from a closed position to an open position, thereby transitioning the first and second shroud portions (1612, 1614) from a connected state to a disconnected state. Further, the latch (1616) in the open position engages a set of contacts that electrically resets, rewrites, or scrambles the data stored in the memory member (1656) by providing electrical communication with one of a reset element such as an integrated capacitor for supplying voltage or current to the memory member (1656), a current inverter for applying a reverse current (i.e., reverse polarity), a power source capable of generating an electrical pulse that damages the data stored in the memory member (1656), and / or another memory (not shown) that emits unstable data (i.e., noise) to render the memory member (1656) inoperable, thereby making the data stored in the memory member (1656) unreadable.When reverse polarity is used to destroy the memory member (1656), a voltage greater than the voltage used in normal operation may be applied at a low amperage to the negative terminal or ground instead of the positive terminal. For example, 10 volts supplied at a low amperage is supplied to the ground connection of a memory member (1656) that uses 6 volts during normal operation, but such a configuration is merely an example and is not intended to unnecessarily limit the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 16 shows a circuit assembly (1750) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600). The circuit assembly (1750) includes a main circuit board (1752), a memory member (1756), a controller (not shown), and a flexible circuit (1754). The memory member (1756) may include memory such as RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or any other suitable form of memory known in the art as described above. The memory member (1756) is positioned within a body assembly (not shown) that houses, supports, and blocks access to the circuit assembly. The flexible circuit (1754) includes a break region (1762) that allows removal and / or destruction of the memory member (1756) and / or the flexible circuit (1754) during the sterilization process. In this version, the break region (1762) includes a conductive epoxy (1764) that fills the break region (1762) to provide electrical communication between the memory member (1556) and the main circuit board (1752). When the circuit assembly (1750) is heated to a temperature suitable for sterilizing the surgical instrument (1700), the conductive epoxy (1764) breaks, such as by melting, to separate the flexible circuit (1754) into one or more portions at the break region (1762). The flexible circuit (1754) in the separated state renders electrical communication between the memory member (1756) and the main circuit board (1752) impossible. In other versions, the break region (1762) is perforated or otherwise weakened so that a user can manually remove the memory member (1756) from the main circuit board (1752) with one or more of the user's hands. Additionally, the controller may be attached to the main circuit board (1752) using the flexible circuit (1754) having the break region (1762) to facilitate removal so that the controller is disposed within a separate waste stream from the main circuit board (1752). In other versions, the controller may be attached in the same manner as the flexible circuit (1754) that includes the break region (1762).Once removed, the memory member (1756) and / or the controller are prevented from being reused in another circuit assembly.

[0061] FIG. 17 shows a circuit assembly (1850) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600). The circuit assembly (1850) is similar to the circuit assembly (1750) unless otherwise described herein. The circuit assembly (1850) includes a main circuit board (1852), an integrated circuit (1858), a memory member (1856), and a controller (1860). The circuit assembly (1850) is different from the circuit assembly (1750) in that the memory member (1856) is attached to the main circuit board (1852) by a pin connector (1868). The pin connector (1868) is a rigid connector made of solderable metal. The pin connector (1868) is directly soldered into a pin bore (1870). The pin bore (1870) is defined by the main circuit board (1852). The pin connector (1868) includes a breakage region (1866). The breakage region (1866) enables the manual removal of the memory member (1856) before or during the sterilization process. As shown, the breakage region (1866) includes a conductive epoxy (1864) that fills a gap within the pin connector (1868). During the sterilization process, when the conductive epoxy (1864) is heated to a temperature suitable for sterilizing a surgical instrument such as any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600) to reach its predetermined melting temperature, it deteriorates by melting and the like. When the conductive epoxy (1864) melts, the two parts of the pin connector (1868) separate, making it impossible for the memory member (1856) from the main circuit board (1852) to communicate with the controller (1860) by the integrated circuit (1858).

[0062] In other versions, the breakage area (1866) includes a portion of the pin connector (1868) having a reduced diameter relative to the remainder of the pin connector (1868). The breakage area (1866) provides a location where the memory member (1856) can be broken off from the main circuit board (1852) by one or more hands of a user with a reduced force (compared to the force for removing the memory member (1856) without the breakage area (1866)), rendering the appliance inoperable and / or providing for separate disposal in a waste stream separate from other components of the main circuit board (1852).

[0063] FIG. 18 shows a circuit assembly (1950) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 54, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600). The circuit assembly (1950) is similar to the circuit assembly (1850), unless otherwise described herein. The circuit assembly (1950) includes a main circuit board (1952), a memory member (1956), an integrated circuit (1958), and a controller (1960). The circuit assembly (1950) differs from the circuit assembly (1850) in that the main circuit board (1952), the controller (1960), and / or the memory member (1956) include a frangible notch (1962) that defines a vulnerable portion on the main circuit board (1952), the controller (1960), and / or the memory member (1956). In this version, the memory member (1956) includes a first memory portion (1964), a second memory portion (1966), and a frangible notch (1962). The first memory portion (1964) is separated from the second memory portion (1966) by the frangible notch (1962). The second memory portion (1966) is firmly attached to the main circuit board (1952). The first memory portion (1964) is removably coupled to the second memory portion (1966) such that when the main circuit board (1952) is removed from the body assembly (not shown), the first memory portion (1964) engages a portion of the body assembly, breaks the memory member (1956), thereby rendering the memory member (1956) inoperable. In this regard, the frangible notch (1962) is configured to prevent the memory member (1956) from being removed intact from the main circuit board (1952) for reuse. Additionally, if a user attempts to install the circuit assembly (1950) or a carelessly loaded circuit assembly (1950) into a sterilized or inappropriate instrument, a portion of the body assembly engages the first memory portion (1964), separating the first memory portion (1964) from the second memory portion (1966) and damaging the memory member (1956) to prevent reuse.

[0064] FIG. 19A shows a portion of a surgical instrument (2000) similar to the surgical instrument (1500), unless otherwise described herein. The body assembly (2010) includes a first shroud portion (2012), a second shroud portion (2014), and one or more support members (2018). The first shroud portion (2012) provides support for a portion of the energy drive system (2040) and a portion of the circuit assembly (2050). The second shroud portion (2014) is fixed to the first shroud portion (2012) in a connected state. The support member (2018) is a rigid member that includes a first support end (2020) and a second support end (2022). The first support end (2020) is attached to one of the first shroud portion (2012) or the second shroud portion (2014), and the second support end (2022) is attached to the circuit assembly (2050). The support member (2018) of this example passes through a bore (2024) defined by the circuit assembly (2050) and is attached to the other of the first shroud portion (2012) or the second shroud portion (2014). The support member (2018) includes a second support end (2022) having a catch, such as a barb or a hook, configured for one-way installation into the bore (2024). In this regard, the term "one-way installation" refers to a catch that is easily installed without damage but is configured to cause damage upon removal. The circuit assembly (2050) includes a main circuit board (2052), a memory member (2056), and a controller (2060), and is shown in an operable state. The circuit assembly (2050) of this example further includes a fragile separator (2062) proximate to the support member (2018). Also, in this example, the second shroud portion (2014) is configured to transition to a disconnected state by moving the second shroud portion (2014) relative to the first shroud portion (2012), for example, by moving the second shroud portion (2014) horizontally. However, such movement is merely one exemplary direction and is not intended to unduly limit the present invention.As a further example, the second shroud portion (2014) may be removed perpendicular to, obliquely to, or in another direction with respect to the first shroud portion (2012).

[0065] FIG. 19B shows a portion of the surgical instrument (2000) with the second shroud portion (2014) removed from the first shroud portion (2012). The support member (2018) moves away from the first shroud portion (2012) together with the second shroud portion (2014). The circuit assembly (2050) is held in place by the first shroud portion (2012). When the support member (2018) is shifted away from the first shroud portion (2012), the circuit assembly (2050) is damaged and the circuit assembly (2050) is rendered inoperable by breaking the circuit assembly (2050) along the frangible separator (2062), thus preventing reuse of the circuit assembly (2050) and / or enabling placement into a separate waste stream.

[0066] IV. Exemplary Surgical Instrument Incorporating a Selectively Separable Energy-Driven System In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument that includes components capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic energy and RF energy. These surgical instruments may desirably be easily openable such that internal components can be separated into separate waste streams within the sterile field using minimal tools such as no tools. These surgical instruments remain intact during normal use but are configured to facilitate disassembly of internal components and / or selectively break internal components. One such internal component is an energy-driven system configured to be removed, separated, and placed into a separate waste stream by one or more hands of a user. These waste streams include, but are not limited to, recycling, disposal, or reclamation.

[0067] Figures 20-21 show a part of an energy drive system (2140) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700). The energy drive system (2140) includes an ultrasonic transducer (2142), a waveguide (2144), an energy coupling portion (2148), and an ultrasonic blade (not shown). The ultrasonic transducer (2142) extends along a longitudinal axis (LA), and the energy coupling portion (2148) is configured to removably couple the ultrasonic transducer (2142) to the waveguide (2144). The waveguide (2144) further extends along the longitudinal axis (LA) and is operably attached to the ultrasonic blade. The energy coupling portion (2148) has a frangible section (2150) that can be broken by one or more hands of a user. The frangible section (2150) may include perforations, serrations, notches, or any other weakening for breaking in a predetermined pattern. When the energy coupling portion (2148) is broken, the ultrasonic transducer (2142) cannot be joined to the waveguide (2144) without further readjustment. As an example, an additional frangible section (2150) may be positioned between the waveguide (2144) and the ultrasonic blade. Thus, the ultrasonic transducer (2142) can be sterilized, regenerated, and reused in a similar surgical instrument, while the waveguide (2144) and the ultrasonic blade are disposed of in another waste stream such as disposal or recycling.

[0068] Figures 22-23 show another part of an energy drive system (2240) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700), which is similar to the energy drive system (2140) unless otherwise specified in this specification. Similar to the energy drive system (2140), the energy drive system (2240) includes an ultrasonic transducer (2242), a waveguide (2244), an energy coupling portion (2248), and an ultrasonic blade (not shown). The energy drive system (2240) is different from the energy drive system (2140) in that the energy drive system (2240) includes an energy coupling portion (2248) configured to disconnect and reconnect the waveguide (2244) from the ultrasonic transducer (2242). The energy coupling portion (2248) of this example is in the form of a bushing (2250) configured to be passed between the ultrasonic transducer (2242) and the waveguide (2244). The bushing (2250) includes an internal bushing thread (2252) and an external bushing thread (2254). The bushing (2250) also includes a torque mechanism (2256) in the form of a hex head configured to allow a user to tighten the bushing (2250) within the ultrasonic transducer (2242) to a specific torque using a torque wrench (not shown) provided within a sterile package (not shown). As shown, the external bushing thread (2254) is screwed into the internal transducer thread (2258), and the external waveguide thread (2260) is screwed into the internal bushing thread (2252), although this configuration may be reversed in other examples. Additionally, the bushing (2250) may include two sets of female threads or two sets of male threads that mate with complementary threads positioned on the waveguide (2244) and the ultrasonic transducer (2242). For example, the external bushing thread (2254) threadedly engages with an internal waveguide thread (not shown) and an external transducer thread (not shown). The bushing (2250) is configured to transmit ultrasonic energy between the ultrasonic transducer (2242) and the waveguide (2244).The bushing (2250) of this example is made of a material less durable than the waveguide (2244) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2242) so that the waveguide (2244) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2242) are preserved, thereby eliminating the preference to reproduce the waveguide (2244) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2242).

[0069] FIG. 24 shows a portion of an energy drive system (2340) including another energy coupling portion (2348) incorporated into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700). The energy coupling portion (2348) is similar to the energy coupling portion (2248) unless otherwise described herein. The energy coupling portion (2348) can threadedly couple the waveguide (2344) to the ultrasonic transducer (2342) in the same manner as the energy coupling portion (2248). More specifically, the energy coupling portion (2348) includes a bushing assembly (2350) having a thread insert (2352) and a bushing (2354).

[0070] The waveguide (2344) includes a proximal end having an external waveguide thread (2360) and an ultrasonic transducer (2343) including an internal transducer surface (2368). The thread insert (2352) of this example is composed of a helically wound wire, but alternatively may be a solid machined part. The thread insert (2352) includes an internal insert thread (2358) configured to engage the external waveguide thread (2360) and an external insert thread (2362) configured to engage the internal bushing thread (2364). The bushing (2354) includes an internal bushing thread (2364) configured to be screwed around the outer insert thread (2362). The bushing (2354) further includes an external bushing surface (2366) having a smooth bore sized to be press-fitted against the internal transducer surface (2368). The bushing (2354) is press-fitted into the ultrasonic transducer (2342). In some versions, the external waveguide thread (2360) is integrated with the internal insert thread (2358), the external insert thread (2362) is integrated with the internal bushing thread (2364), and the external bushing surface (2366) is press-fitted into the ultrasonic transducer (2342). The thread insert (2352) is separable from the bushing (2354), such that after use, the ultrasonic transducer (2342) or the waveguide (2344) may be removed for recycling or refurbishment, and either the thread insert (2352) and / or the bushing (2350) may be disposed of or recycled. The thread insert (2352) and the bushing (2354) conduct ultrasonic energy, but may be composed of a material that is less wear-resistant than the waveguide (2344) and / or the ultrasonic transducer (2342), and thus, the thread insert (2352) and / or the bushing (2354) may be replaced after a predetermined number of uses or after a predetermined amount of wear has occurred to prevent wear of the ultrasonic transducer (2342) and / or the waveguide (2344).

[0071] FIG. 25 shows a portion of an energy drive system (2440) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700). The energy drive system (2440) is similar to the energy drive system (2240) unless otherwise described herein. The energy drive system (2440) includes an ultrasonic transducer (2442), a waveguide (2444), and an ultrasonic blade (not shown). The energy drive system (2440) may further include an energy coupling portion (2448) to further assist a user in disassembling the energy drive system (2440) with one or more of the user's hands. The ultrasonic transducer (2442) extends along a longitudinal axis (LA) and may be removably coupled to the waveguide (2444) by the energy coupling portion (2448). The waveguide (2444) further extends along the longitudinal axis (LA) and is operably attached to the ultrasonic blade.

[0072] The ultrasonic transducer (2442) can be removed and refurbished for reuse. More specifically, the ultrasonic transducer (2442) includes a protective coating, such as a cover (2452), to prevent damage to the ultrasonic transducer (2442) when removed from the body assembly (2410). The cover (2452) includes a non-conductive base, such as rubber, plastic, or ceramic. The cover (2452) of this example also includes a conductive base that is installed by electroplating or by being locally applied to the surface of the ultrasonic transducer (2442). Such a protective coating may be applied as a liquid and dried. In other versions, the cover (2452) is in a solid state and is fastened over the ultrasonic transducer (2442).

[0073] V. Exemplary Surgical Instruments Incorporating a Selectively Separable Housing and a Tension Relief Mechanism In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a surgical instrument that includes components capable of delivering ultrasonic energy, RF energy, or both ultrasonic and RF energy, and the surgical instrument is easily opened such that internal components can be separated into separate waste streams using minimal tools, such as without tools, within the sterile field. These surgical instruments remain intact during normal use but are configured to facilitate disassembly of internal components and / or selectively break internal components. One such internal component is an electrical cable configured to be removed by one or more hands of a user after separating the housing for access to the electrical cable. The electrical cable is configured to be disposed within a waste stream that may include, but is not limited to, recycling, disposal, or reclamation. Other components may be disposed within a waste stream other than the waste stream desired for the electrical cable.

[0074] FIG. 26A shows a part of a body assembly (2510) for incorporation into any of the surgical instruments (112, 152, 154, 156, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700). The body assembly (2510) includes a first shroud portion (2512), a second shroud portion (2514), a lateral coupling portion (2526), and an electrical cable (2516). The first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514) are more specifically in the form of a first cover portion and a second cover portion. The body assembly (2510) is configured to support a circuit assembly (2550) and an energy drive system (2540) while also preventing access to the circuit assembly (2550) and the energy drive system (2540). The electrical cable (2516) provides electrical communication between a generator (150) (see FIG. 5) and the energy drive system (2540) and / or the circuit assembly (2550). The first shroud portion (2512) and the second shroud portion (2514) hold the electrical cable (2516) in a connected state. The lateral coupling portion (2526) is positioned between the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514) and is configured to hold the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514) in a connected state when positioned in a locked position. The lateral coupling portion (2526) may include any of the aforementioned shroud coupling portions (1004, 1204, 1206), magnetic lock assemblies (1134), and latches (1516, 1616) as described above. The lateral coupling portion (2526) may be electrically locked and unlocked using a key or may have magnetic members separated from each other. The body assembly (2510) further includes a tension relief assembly (2518) including a first relief portion (2520) and a second relief portion (2522). In this version, the tension relief assembly (2518) is close to the lateral coupling portion (2526).The tension relief assembly (2518) may be operably attached to the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514), or may be integrally formed with the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514), or may be a separate component positioned within a bore (2524) located between the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514). As shown in this example, the tension relief assembly (2518) is a separate component. The tension relief assembly (2518) includes a recess configured to engage with the bore (2524). The recess axially positions the tension relief assembly (2518) within the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion (2512, 2514). The tension relief assembly (2518) is configured to hold the electrical cable (2516) when the first shroud portion (2512) and the second shroud portion (2514) are in a connected state. The tension relief assembly (2518) includes an inclined surface (2528) positioned on the first relief portion (2520), and the complementary surface (2530) on the second relief portion (2522) is configured to axially couple the electrical cable (2516) therebetween.

[0075] FIG. 26B shows a tension relief assembly (2518) in a disconnected state where the first shroud portion (2512) is laterally spaced from the second shroud portion (2514). To transition the body assembly from a connected state to a disconnected state, the user transitions the lateral coupling (2526) from a locked state to an unlocked state. The first shroud portion (2512) is laterally spaced from the second shroud portion (2514), thereby releasing the electrical cable (2516) from the tension relief assembly (2518). When the first and second shroud portions (2512, 2514) are in the disconnected state, the first relief portion (2520) is separated from the second relief portion (2522), completely releasing the electrical cable (2516). The first shroud portion (2512) is operably attached to the first relief portion (2520) and separates from the second shroud portion (2514) operably attached to the second relief portion (2522). When the first relief portion (2520) is spaced from the second relief portion (2522), the electrical cable (2516) is configured to be removed from the body assembly (2510) by one or more hands of the user with reduced hand force.

[0076] VI. Exemplary Combinations The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit any claims that may be presented at any time in this application or subsequent applications of this application. It is not intended to waive any rights. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is contemplated that the various teachings of this specification can be configured and applied in many other ways. Also, in some variations, it is contemplated that certain features mentioned in the following examples may be omitted. Accordingly, none of the aspects or features mentioned below should be considered important unless so explicitly indicated later by the inventors or their successors in interest. If the claims presented in this application or subsequent applications related to this application include additional features other than those mentioned below, those additional features should not be considered to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

Example

[0077] A surgical instrument, comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; and (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; and (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, wherein the shroud coupling is selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, and the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and prevent access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing inside, and the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly.

Example

[0078] The surgical instrument according to Example 1, wherein the push pin includes a plurality of elastic ribs configured to be inserted through a first bore defined by the first shroud portion and a second bore defined by the second shroud portion, and the plurality of elastic ribs expand after being inserted through the first bore and the second bore to hold the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in a connected state.

Example

[0079] A shank configured such that the pushpin includes a first outer diameter in a non-expanded state, wherein the first outer diameter of the shank is sized to fit within a pair of bores extending through the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion; and a pin configured to fit within the shank and transition the shank to an expanded state, thereby connecting the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion. The surgical instrument according to Example 1 or 2.

Example

[0080] An energy drive system includes: (i) a transducer; (ii) a waveguide; and (iii) an energy coupling portion configured to removably connect the transducer to the waveguide, the energy coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a frangible section, a press-fit bushing, and a threaded bushing. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 3.

Example

[0081] A magnetic fastener includes a magnetic coupling portion having a first magnetic member operably fixed to the first shroud portion and a second magnetic member operably fixed to the second shroud portion, the magnetic members being selected from the group consisting of rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, the first magnetic member being operably fixed to the second magnetic member by magnetic attraction, and the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion being configured to transition from a connected state to a disconnected state by a user separating the first magnetic member from the second magnetic member. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 4.

Example

[0082] A shroud includes an alignment mechanism configured to align the first shroud portion with the second shroud portion while transitioning from a connected state to a disconnected state, thereby aligning the first magnetic member with the second magnetic member. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 5.

Example

[0083] The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic lock assembly configured to connect a first shroud portion to a second shroud portion in a connected state, the magnetic lock assembly including at least one magnetic member selected from the group consisting of rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, and the magnetic lock assembly using magnetic attraction to place the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in a locked state that prevents inadvertent movement of the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion from the connected state to the unconnected state. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 6.

Example

[0084] The surgical instrument according to Example 7, wherein the magnetic lock assembly includes a key configured to shift the magnetic lock assembly from a locked state to an unlocked state.

Example

[0085] The at least one magnetic member includes a first magnetic member operably connected to the first shroud portion and a second magnetic member operably connected to the second shroud portion, one of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member being magnetically attracted to the other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member, and the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member having a high magnetic attraction between each other in the locked state and having a low magnetic attraction between each other in the unlocked state. The surgical instrument according to Example 7 or 8.

Example

[0086] The circuit assembly includes a memory and a main circuit board, the memory being connected to the main circuit board by a circuit coupling portion, the memory being configured to be permanently separated from the main circuit board at the circuit coupling portion, and the circuit coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a breakage region, a reduced diameter of a pin connector, or a vulnerable notch. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 9.

Example

[0087] The circuit assembly includes a main circuit board and a sub-board, the sub-board is connected to the main circuit board by a pluggable coupling portion, and the sub-board is configured to be separated from the main circuit board at the pluggable coupling portion. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 9.

Example

[0088] The circuit assembly includes a memory, and the shroud coupling portion includes a latch configured to selectively move from a fixed position to a non-fixed position when transitioning from a connected state to a disconnected state, respectively. The latch is configured to erase the memory while selectively moving from the fixed position to the non-fixed position. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 11.

Example

[0089] The circuit assembly includes a memory and a latch, the latch is configured to disable the memory, and the latch disables the memory by a reset element selected from the group consisting of an integrated circuit, an integrated capacitor, a current inverter, and a Hall effect sensor. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 11.

Example

[0090] The circuit assembly includes a first circuit portion, a second circuit portion, and a fragile separator. The fragile separator connects the first circuit portion to the second circuit portion in an operable state, and the fragile separator is configured to permanently separate the first circuit portion from the second circuit portion in a non-operable state. The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 13.

Example

[0091] Further including a cable, the cable is captured by the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state, and the cable is released from the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state, the surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 14.

Example

[0092] A surgical instrument, comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, including a shaft and a waveguide positioned within the shaft; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; and (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, including: (i) a transducer removably connected to the waveguide; (ii) a circuit assembly operably connected to the transducer; and (iii) a plurality of shrouds covering the transducer and the circuit assembly, the plurality of shrouds including a first shroud portion, a second shroud portion, and a shroud coupling portion, the first shroud portion being removably attached to the second shroud portion by the shroud coupling portion in the connected state, the shroud coupling portion being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in the disconnected state, a body assembly, wherein the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer and block access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer for housing inside, and the transducer is configured to be separated from the waveguide to enable removal of the transducer from the body assembly.

Example

[0093] Further including a bushing for removably coupling the transducer to the waveguide, the bushing being composed of a material having lower wear resistance than the waveguide and the transducer, the surgical instrument according to Example 16.

Example

[0094] The surgical instrument according to embodiment 16, wherein the transducer is removably coupled to the waveguide by a fragile coupling portion.

Example

[0095] The surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the transducer includes a protective cover configured to prevent damage to the transducer during removal.

Example

[0096] A surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) a cable operably connected to at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and in electrical communication with at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system; and (f) a body assembly including a cover extending proximally from the shaft assembly and removably attached over a portion of the energy drive system and the circuit assembly, the cover including a first cover portion and a second cover portion removably attached to each other in a connected state, the first cover portion and the second cover portion in the connected state capturing the cable, and the first cover portion and the second cover portion releasing the cable in a disconnected state.

Example

[0097] The surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the body assembly includes a handle configured to be grasped by a user.

Example

[0098] The surgical instrument according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the housing assembly is configured to couple with complementary components of a robotic arm.

Example

[0099] A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; and (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; and (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, the shroud coupling being selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and preventing access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for internal accommodation, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state allowing access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, the method comprising: (a) removing the first shroud portion with one or more hands of a user; and (b) removing a portion of the circuit assembly.

Example

[0100] The method according to embodiment 23, further comprising removing a part of the circuit assembly by breaking the circuit assembly with one or more hands of a user.

Example

[0101] The method according to embodiment 23 or 24, further comprising placing a part of the circuit assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and reusing.

Example

[0102] A part of the circuit assembly is a first part of the circuit assembly, and (e) removing a second part of the circuit assembly and placing the second part of the circuit assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and reusing, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream. The method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 25, further comprising placing.

Example

[0103] A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; and (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; and (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, the shroud coupling being selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and preventing access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing therein, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state enabling access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for removing at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, the method including: (a) removing the first shroud portion with one or more hands of a user; and (b) removing a portion of the energy drive assembly.

Example

[0104] (c) further comprising removing a portion of the energy drive assembly by breaking it with one or more hands of a user, the method according to Example 27.

Example

[0105] The method according to embodiment 27 or 28, further comprising disposing a part of the energy-driven assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating.

Example

[0106] A part of the circuit assembly includes a first part of the circuit assembly, and (e) removing a second part of the energy-driven assembly and disposing the second part of the energy-driven assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream, the method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 29, further comprising disposing.

Example

[0107] A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including (i) a first shroud portion, (ii) a second shroud portion, and (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state; and (d) an internal assembly housed within the body assembly and including a first internal component operably connected to a second internal component, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing and preventing access to the internal components to house them internally; the method including: (a) removing the first shroud portion; (b) breaking the first internal component from the second internal component; and (c) removing the first internal component from the body assembly.

Example

[0108] The method according to Example 31, further comprising removing a second internal component from the body assembly.

Example

[0109] The method according to Example 31 or 32, further comprising placing a first internal component in a first waste stream and placing a second internal component in a second waste stream.

[0110] VII. Others The above-described variations of the device are applicable not only to conventional medical procedures and surgeries performed by medical professionals, but also to robot-assisted medical procedures and robot-assisted surgeries.

[0111] It should be understood that any of the variations of the instruments described herein may include, in addition to or in place of those described above, various other features. By way of example only, any of the instruments described herein may further include one or more of the various features disclosed in any of the various references incorporated herein by reference. The teachings herein may be readily applied to any of the instruments described in any of the other references cited herein, and thus it should also be understood that the teachings herein may be readily combined in many ways with the teachings of any of the references cited herein. Other types of instruments into which the teachings herein may be incorporated will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0112] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application entitled "Method of Reclaiming Portions of Surgical Instruments for Remanufacturing and Sustainability" [Attorney Docket No. END9447USNP1.0754991], filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Attorney Docket No. END9447USNP1.0754991] will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification.

[0113] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application entitled "Surgical Instrument with Removeable Cable and Associated Couplings" [Attorney Docket No. END9448USNP2.0754976], filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Attorney Docket No. END9448USNP2.0754976] will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification.

[0114] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application entitled "Surgical System and Methods of Assembly and Disassembly of Surgical Instrument" [Attorney Docket No. END9448USNP3.0754978], filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. Patent Application [Attorney Docket No. END9448USNP3.0754978] will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification.

[0115] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of the U.S. patent application entitled "Robotic Surgical System with Removable Portion and Method of Disassembling Same" [Attorney Docket No. END9449USNP1.0754980], filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. patent application [Attorney Docket No. END9449USNP1.0754980] will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification.

[0116] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of the U.S. patent application entitled "System for Determining Disposal of Surgical Instrument and Related methods" [Attorney Docket No. END9450USNP1.0754982], filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. patent application [Attorney Docket No. END9450USNP1.0754982] will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification.

[0117] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of the U.S. patent application entitled "Reclamation Packaging for Surgical Instrument and Related Methods" [Attorney Docket No. END9450USNP2.0754998], filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of the U.S. patent application [Attorney Docket No. END9450USNP2.0754998] will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification.

[0118] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application No. [Docket No. END9450USNP3.0755000] entitled "Surgical Instrument with Various Alignment Features and Methods for Improved Disassembly and Assembly", filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application No. [Docket No. END9450USNP3.0755000] will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings of this specification.

[0119] In addition to the above, the teachings of this specification can be readily combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Docket No. END9450USNP4.0755005] entitled "Surgical System and Methods for Instrument Assessment and Cleaning", filed on the same day as this specification, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application [Docket No. END9450USNP4.0755005] will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings of this specification.

[0120] It should also be understood that any range of values recited herein is to be read as including the upper and lower limits of such range. For example, a range expressed as "about 1.0 inch to about 1.5 inches" should be read as including the values between those upper and lower limits, as well as about 1.0 inch and about 1.5 inches.

[0121] All or part of any patent, publication, or other disclosure that is hereby incorporated by reference is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated content does not conflict with existing definitions, opinions, or other disclosure in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure clearly set forth herein shall supersede any conflicting disclosure incorporated herein by reference. Any content, or portions thereof, that is stated to be incorporated herein by reference but conflicts with the current definitions, opinions, or other disclosure set forth in this specification shall be incorporated only to the extent that no conflict arises between the incorporated content and the current disclosure.

[0122] The above-described variants may be designed to be discarded after single use, or they may be designed to be used multiple times. The variants may be readjusted for reuse after at least one use, in either or both cases. Readjustment may include any combination of a device disassembly process, followed by a cleaning or replacement process for specific parts, and a subsequent reassembly process. Specifically, some variants of the device may be disassembled, and any number of specific parts or components of the device may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. When cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, some variants of the device may be reassembled for subsequent use either in a readjustment facility or by an operator immediately prior to the procedure. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly can be utilized in the readjustment of the device. The use of such techniques, and the resulting readjusted device, are all within the scope of this application.

[0123] Merely by way of example, the variations described herein can be sterilized before and / or after treatment. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a sealed and enclosed container such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. Next, the container and the device can be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma rays, X-rays, or high-energy electron beams. The radiation can kill bacteria on the device and within the container. Next, the sterilized device can be stored within the sterilized container for later use. The device can also be sterilized using any other technique well known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma rays, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0124] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein can be realized by those skilled in the art with appropriate modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. Some of such possible modifications have been described, but other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the examples, embodiments, geometric shapes, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc. discussed above are illustrative and not essential. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered with respect to the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of construction and operation shown and described in this specification and the drawings.

[0125] 〔Embodiments〕 (1) A surgical instrument, (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly, (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector, (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system, (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, (i) a first shroud portion, (ii) a second shroud portion, and (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, a body assembly, wherein the shroud coupling is selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, wherein the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and prevent access to the at least a portion of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing inside, wherein the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state enable access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove the at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, a surgical instrument. (2) The surgical instrument according to Embodiment 1, wherein the push pin includes a plurality of elastic ribs configured to be inserted through a first bore defined by the first shroud portion and a second bore defined by the second shroud portion, and the plurality of elastic ribs expand after being inserted through the first bore and the second bore to hold the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in a connected state. (3) The pushpin is a shank configured to include a first outer diameter in a non-expanded state, the first outer diameter of the shank being sized to fit within a pair of bores extending through the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion, a shank, and a pin fitted within the shank and configured to move the shank to an expanded state, thereby connecting the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion, the surgical instrument according to embodiment 1 or 2. (4) The energy drive system (i) a transducer; (ii) a waveguide; (iii) an energy coupling portion configured to removably connect the transducer to the waveguide, the energy coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a frangible section, a press-fit bushing, and a threaded bushing, the surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3. (5) The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic coupling portion having a first magnetic member operably fixed to the first shroud portion and a second magnetic member operably fixed to the second shroud portion, the magnetic member being selected from the group consisting of a rare earth magnet, a ferromagnetic metal, and an electromagnet, the first magnetic member being operably fixed to the second magnetic member by magnetic attraction, and the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion being configured to transition from the connected state to the non-connected state by the user separating the first magnetic member from the second magnetic member, the surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4.

[0126] (6) The shroud includes an alignment mechanism configured to align the first shroud portion with the second shroud portion while transitioning from the connected state to the non-connected state, thereby aligning the first magnetic member with the second magnetic member, the surgical instrument according to embodiment 5. (7) The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic lock assembly configured to connect the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the magnetic lock assembly including at least one magnetic member selected from the group consisting of a rare earth magnet, a ferromagnetic metal, and an electromagnet, the magnetic lock assembly using magnetic attraction to place the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in a locked state that prevents inadvertent movement of the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion from the connected state to the unconnected state. The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 6. (8) The magnetic lock assembly includes a key configured to shift the magnetic lock assembly from the locked state to an unlocked state. The surgical instrument according to Embodiment 7. (9) The at least one magnetic member includes a first magnetic member operably connected to the first shroud portion and a second magnetic member operably connected to the second magnetic member, one of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member being magnetically attracted to the other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member, the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member having a high magnetic attraction between them in the locked state, and the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member having a low magnetic attraction between them in the unlocked state. The surgical instrument according to Embodiment 7 or 8. (10) The circuit assembly includes a memory and a main circuit board, the memory being connected to the main circuit board by a circuit coupling portion, the memory being configured to be permanently separated from the main circuit board at the circuit coupling portion, the circuit coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a breakage region, a reduced diameter of a pin connector, or a fragile notch. The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 9.

[0127] (11) The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the circuit assembly includes a main circuit board and a sub-board, the sub-board is connected to the main circuit board by a pluggable coupling portion, and the sub-board is configured to be separated from the main circuit board at the pluggable coupling portion. (12) The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the circuit assembly includes a memory, the shroud coupling portion includes a latch configured to selectively move from a fixed position to a non-fixed position when transitioning from the connected state to the non-connected state respectively, and the latch is configured to erase the memory while selectively moving from the fixed position to the non-fixed position. (13) The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the circuit assembly includes a memory and a latch, the latch is configured to disable the memory, and the latch disables the memory by a reset element selected from the group consisting of an integrated circuit, an integrated capacitor, a current inverter, and a Hall effect sensor. (14) The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the circuit assembly includes a first circuit portion, a second circuit portion, and a fragile separator, the fragile separator connects the first circuit portion to the second circuit portion in an operable state, and the fragile separator is configured to permanently separate the first circuit portion from the second circuit portion in an inoperable state. (15) The surgical instrument according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 14, further including a cable, the cable being captured by the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state, and the cable being released from the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the non-connected state.

[0128] (16) A surgical instrument, (a) A shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, including a shaft and a waveguide positioned within the shaft; (b) An end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) A body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, (i) a transducer removably connected to the waveguide, (ii) a circuit assembly operably connected to the transducer, (iii) a plurality of shrouds covering the transducer and the circuit assembly, including a first shroud portion, a second shroud portion, and a shroud coupling portion, wherein the first shroud portion is removably attached to the second shroud portion by the shroud coupling portion in a connected state, and the shroud coupling portion is further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, the body assembly including In the connected state, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion enclose at least a part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer, preventing access to at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer for internal accommodation, In the disconnected state, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion allow access to at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer from the body assembly, A surgical instrument, wherein the transducer is configured to be separated from the waveguide to enable removal of the transducer from the body assembly. (17) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 16, further including a bushing for removably coupling the transducer to the waveguide, the bushing being made of a material having lower wear resistance than the waveguide and the transducer. (18) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 16 or 17, wherein the transducer is removably coupled to the waveguide by a fragile coupling portion. (19) The surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the transducer includes a protective cover configured to prevent the transducer from being damaged during removal. (20) A surgical instrument, (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) a cable operably connected to at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and in electrical communication with the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system; (f) a body assembly including a cover removably attached proximally from the shaft assembly and over a portion of the energy drive system and the circuit assembly, the cover including a first cover portion and a second cover portion removably attached to each other in a connected state, the first cover portion and the second cover portion in the connected state capturing the cable and the first cover portion and the second cover portion releasing the cable in a disconnected state.

[0129] (21) The surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the body assembly includes a handle configured to be grasped by a user. (22) The surgical instrument according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the housing assembly is configured to couple with complementary components of a robotic arm. (23) A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising (a) A shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, and (b) An end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly, and (c) An energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector, and (d) A circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system, and (e) A body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) A first shroud portion, and (ii) A second shroud portion, and (iii) A shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a non-connected state, the shroud coupling being selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and preventing access to the at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing therein, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the non-connected state allowing access to the at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove the at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, (a) Removing the first shroud portion with one or more hands of the user, and (b) Removing a portion of the circuit assembly. (24) (c) The method according to embodiment 23, further comprising removing the part of the circuit assembly by breaking the circuit assembly with one or more hands of the user. (25) (d) The method according to embodiment 23 or 24, further comprising disposing the part of the circuit assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and reusing.

[0130] (26) The part of the circuit assembly is a first part of the circuit assembly, (e) The method according to any one of embodiments 23 to 25, further comprising removing a second part of the circuit assembly and disposing the second part of the circuit assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and reusing, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream. (27) A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly, (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector, (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system, (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, (i) a first shroud portion, (ii) a second shroud portion, (iii) a shroud coupling portion configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, wherein the shroud coupling portion is further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, the shroud coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing at least a part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and preventing access to at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing therein, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state enabling access to at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for removing at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the main body assembly, including a main body assembly, the method being (a) removing the first shroud portion with one or more hands of the user; (b) removing a part of the energy drive assembly, a method. (28) (c) The method according to embodiment 27, further comprising removing the part of the energy drive assembly by breaking it with one or more hands of the user. (29) (d) The method according to embodiment 27 or 28, further comprising disposing the part of the energy drive assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating. (30) The part of the circuit assembly includes a first part of the circuit assembly. (e) Removing a second portion of the energy-driven assembly and disposing of the second portion of the energy-driven assembly within a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and reusing, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream, the method according to any one of embodiments 27 to 29, further comprising disposing.

[0131] (31) A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, wherein the surgical instrument comprises (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly comprising (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state; and a body assembly, (d) an internal assembly housed within the body assembly and including a first internal component operably connected to a second internal component, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing the internal components and preventing access to the internal components for housing therein; and an internal assembly, the method comprising (a) removing the first shroud portion; (b) breaking the first internal component from the second internal component; (c) removing the first internal component from the body assembly. (32) The method according to embodiment 31, further comprising removing the second internal component from the body assembly. (33) The method according to embodiment 31 or 32, further comprising disposing the first internal component in a first waste stream and disposing the second internal component in a second waste stream.

Claims

Claim 1 A surgical instrument, comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; and (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state; wherein the shroud coupling is selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener; wherein the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and prevent access to the at least a portion of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing therein; and wherein the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for removing the at least a portion of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly. Claim 2 The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the push pin includes a plurality of resilient ribs configured to be inserted through a first bore defined by the first shroud portion and a second bore defined by the second shroud portion, and the plurality of resilient ribs expand after being inserted through the first bore and the second bore to hold the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state. Claim 3 a shank configured to include a first outer diameter in a non-expanded state, the first outer diameter of the shank being sized to fit within a pair of bores extending through the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion; and a pin fitted within the shank and configured to transition the shank to an expanded state, thereby connecting the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion, the surgical instrument according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The energy drive system is (i) a transducer; (ii) a waveguide; and (iii) an energy coupling configured to removably connect the transducer to the waveguide, the energy coupling being selected from the group consisting of a frangible section, a press-fit bushing, and a threaded bushing, the surgical instrument according to claim 1.

5. The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic coupling having a first magnetic member operably fixed to the first shroud portion and a second magnetic member operably fixed to the second shroud portion, the magnetic members being selected from the group consisting of rare earth magnets, ferromagnetic metals, and electromagnets, the first magnetic member being operably fixed to the second magnetic member by magnetic attraction, and the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion being configured to transition from the connected state to the unconnected state by a user separating the first magnetic member from the second magnetic member, the surgical instrument according to claim 1.

6. The shroud includes an alignment mechanism configured to align the first shroud portion with the second shroud portion during the transition from the connected state to the unconnected state, thereby aligning the first magnetic member with the second magnetic member, the surgical instrument according to claim 5.

7. The magnetic fastener includes a magnetic lock assembly configured to connect the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the magnetic lock assembly including at least one magnetic member selected from the group consisting of a rare earth magnet, a ferromagnetic metal, and an electromagnet, the magnetic lock assembly using magnetic attraction to place the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in a locked state that prevents inadvertent movement of the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion from the connected state to the unconnected state. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

8. The surgical instrument according to claim 7, wherein the magnetic lock assembly includes a key configured to transition the magnetic lock assembly from the locked state to an unlocked state.

9. The at least one magnetic member includes a first magnetic member operably connected to the first shroud portion and a second magnetic member operably connected to the second magnetic member, one of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member being magnetically attracted to the other of the first magnetic member or the second magnetic member, the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member having a high magnetic attraction between each other in the locked state, and the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member having a low magnetic attraction between each other in the unlocked state. The surgical instrument according to claim 7.

10. The circuit assembly includes a memory and a main circuit board, the memory being connected to the main circuit board by a circuit coupling portion, the memory being configured to be permanently separated from the main circuit board at the circuit coupling portion, the circuit coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a breakage region, a reduced diameter of a pin connector, or a fragile notch. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

11. The circuit assembly includes a main circuit board and a sub-board, the sub-board being connected to the main circuit board by a pluggable coupling portion, the sub-board being configured to be separated from the main circuit board at the pluggable coupling portion. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

12. The circuit assembly includes a memory, and the shroud coupling portion includes a latch configured to selectively move from a fixed position to a non-fixed position when transitioning from the connected state to the non-connected state, respectively, and the latch is configured to erase the memory while selectively moving from the fixed position to the non-fixed position. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

13. The circuit assembly includes a memory and a latch, the latch is configured to disable the memory, and the latch disables the memory by a reset element selected from the group consisting of an integrated circuit, an integrated capacitor, a current inverter, and a Hall effect sensor. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

14. The circuit assembly includes a first circuit portion, a second circuit portion, and a fragile separator, and the fragile separator connects the first circuit portion to the second circuit portion in an operable state, and the fragile separator is configured to permanently separate the first circuit portion from the second circuit portion in an inoperable state. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

15. Further including a cable, the cable is captured by the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state, and the cable is released from the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the non-connected state. The surgical instrument according to claim 1.

16. A surgical instrument, (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, including a shaft and a waveguide positioned within the shaft; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, (i) a transducer removably connected to the waveguide; (ii) a circuit assembly operably connected to the transducer; (iii) a plurality of shrouds covering the transducer and the circuit assembly, the plurality of shrouds including a first shroud portion, a second shroud portion, and a shroud coupling portion, the first shroud portion being removably attached to the second shroud portion by the shroud coupling portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling portion being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, a body assembly; The first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose at least a part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer and prevent access to the at least a part of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer for internal accommodation. The first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state allow access to at least a part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the transducer from the body assembly. A surgical instrument, wherein the transducer is configured to be separated from the waveguide to enable removal of the transducer from the body assembly.

17. The surgical instrument according to claim 16, further comprising a bushing for removably coupling the transducer to the waveguide, the bushing being made of a material having lower wear resistance than the waveguide and the transducer.

18. The surgical instrument according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the transducer is removably coupled to the waveguide by a fragile coupling portion.

19. The surgical instrument according to claim 16, wherein the transducer includes a protective cover configured to prevent damage to the transducer during removal.

20. A surgical instrument, comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue. (d) A circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) A cable operably connected to at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and in electrical communication with the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system; (f) A body assembly including a cover extending proximally from the shaft assembly and removably attached over a portion of the energy drive system and the circuit assembly, the cover including a first cover portion and a second cover portion removably attached to each other in a connected state, the first cover portion and the second cover portion in the connected state capturing the cable and the first cover portion and the second cover portion in a non - connected state releasing the cable, a surgical instrument comprising. (Claim 21) The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the body assembly includes a handle configured to be grasped by a user. (Claim 22) The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the housing assembly is configured to couple with complementary components of a robotic arm. (Claim 23) A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising (a) A shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) An end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) An energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) A circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) A body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, (i) A first shroud portion; (ii) A second shroud portion; ((iii)) a shroud coupling portion configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling portion being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, the shroud coupling portion being selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing at least a part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and preventing access to at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing inside, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state enabling access to at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove at least the part of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly, a body assembly, including, the method being, (a) removing the first shroud portion with one or more hands of the user; (b) removing a part of the circuit assembly, a method.

24. (c) The method according to claim 23, further comprising removing the part of the circuit assembly by breaking the circuit assembly with one or more hands of the user.

25. (d) The method according to claim 23 or 24, further comprising disposing the part of the circuit assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating.

26. The part of the circuit assembly is a first part of the circuit assembly, (e) removing a second part of the circuit assembly and disposing the second part of the circuit assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating, the second waste stream being different from the first waste stream, the method according to claim 23, further comprising disposing.

27. A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument being, (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) an energy drive system operably connected to the end effector and configured to apply radio frequency (RF) energy or ultrasonic energy to a patient's tissue via the end effector; (d) a circuit assembly operably connected to the energy drive system; (e) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state, the shroud coupling being selected from the group consisting of a push pin and a magnetic fastener, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclosing at least a portion of at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system and preventing access to the at least a portion of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system for housing therein, the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the disconnected state allowing access to the at least a portion of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system to remove the at least a portion of the at least one of the circuit assembly or the energy drive system from the body assembly; (a) removing the first shroud portion with one or more hands of the user; (b) removing a portion of the energy drive assembly.

28. (c) The method of claim 27, further comprising removing the portion of the energy drive assembly by breaking with one or more hands of the user.

29. The method according to claim 27 or 28, further comprising disposing a part of the energy-driven assembly in a first waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating.

30. The part of the circuit assembly includes a first part of the circuit assembly, The method according to claim 27, further comprising: (e) removing a second part of the energy-driven assembly and disposing the second part of the energy-driven assembly in a second waste stream selected from the group consisting of disposing, recycling, and regenerating, wherein the second waste stream is different from the first waste stream.

31. A method of disassembling a surgical instrument, the surgical instrument comprising: (a) a shaft assembly extending along a longitudinal axis; (b) an end effector extending distally from the shaft assembly; (c) a body assembly extending proximally from the shaft assembly, the body assembly including: (i) a first shroud portion; (ii) a second shroud portion; (iii) a shroud coupling configured to removably attach the first shroud portion to the second shroud portion in a connected state, the shroud coupling being further configured to remove the first shroud portion from the second shroud portion in a disconnected state; and (d) an internal assembly housed within the body assembly and including a first internal component operably connected to a second internal component, wherein the first shroud portion and the second shroud portion in the connected state enclose and prevent access to the internal components to house the internal components therein. The method includes: (a) removing the first shroud portion; (b) breaking the first internal component from the second internal component; and (c) removing the first internal component from the body assembly.

32. The method according to claim 31, further comprising removing the second internal component from the body assembly.

33. The method according to claim 31 or 32, further comprising disposing the first internal component in a first waste stream and disposing the second internal component in a second waste stream.

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