Input attachment, surgical device, construct for intraoperative use, and use of the input attachment

Abstract

The present invention relates to an input attachment, a surgical device, a configuration for intraoperative use, and uses of the input attachment. The present invention relates to an input attachment for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece via an external surgical device, the surgical device being coupled to the input attachment, the input attachment comprising: an input device configured to receive user input; an electrical interface, where generated control signals are transmitted to the surgical device via the electrical interface; and a mechanical assembly interface configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece in an assembled state of the input attachment such that the input attachment combined with the surgical handpiece can be treated as an integrated handpiece. The present invention also relates to a surgical device, a configuration for intraoperative use, and uses of the input attachment according to the present invention for intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an input attachment for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece via an external surgical device coupled to the surgical handpiece, a surgical device, a construct for intraoperative use, and the use of a corresponding input attachment. [Background technology]

[0002] In intraoperative nerve monitoring (IOM), surgeons can stimulate nerves with small electrical impulses during surgery using surgical handpieces, such as stimulation probes or mapping and aspiration devices. To prevent contamination of the surgical site, the handpiece must be sterile. It is also desirable for the strength of the current to be adjustable during nerve stimulation and for it to have an indicator that shows the response to stimulation. Generally, the smaller the current required to generate a signal, the closer the nerve is to the area to be protected. Adjusting the current strength is often only possible by connecting an external device to the handpiece. In contrast, EP 1 804 911 B1 discloses a stimulation handpiece with a switch that can adjust the electrical signal. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In light of the above background, it is an object of the present invention to provide a surgeon with convenient controls for a number of different surgical handpieces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to the present invention, the above object is achieved by using an input attachment having the features of claim 1, a surgical device having the features of claim 25, an arrangement having the features of claim 27 and / or an input attachment having the features of claim 31.

[0005] The present invention provides the following: an input attachment for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece via an external surgical device coupled to the input attachment, the input attachment comprising: an input device configured to receive user input; a control device configured to generate control signals for controlling the surgical handpiece based on the received user input; an electrical interface, the generated control signals being transmitted to the surgical device via the electrical interface; and a mechanical assembly interface configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece in an assembled state of the input attachment so that the input attachment combined with the surgical handpiece can be treated as an integrated handpiece.

[0006] A surgical device comprising a first electrical device interface having a first interface and a second interface, wherein the first interface is configured to receive a control signal from an input attachment coupled to the surgical device via the electrical device interface according to the present invention, and the second interface is configured to transmit a stimulation signal to a surgical handpiece coupled to the surgical device via the electrical device interface based on the received control signal.

[0007] - an arrangement for intraoperative use comprising an input attachment according to the invention, a surgical device according to the invention, and a surgical handpiece.

[0008] Use of the input attachment according to the invention for intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM).

[0009] The basic idea of ​​the present invention is to develop an attachment with input capabilities that can be easily placed and attached to the handpiece portion of a surgical instrument or surgical handpiece, allowing the surgeon to adjust parameters such as current intensity during surgery without having to leave or look away from the surgical site. Furthermore, the same attachment can be attached to another handpiece as needed, allowing similar adjustment of parameters in that case.

[0010] With the attachment in place, the surgeon can easily control the surgical instrument or surgical handpiece from the sterile field, which is important because the surgical equipment being connected is often not sterile and may require the surgeon to take their eyes off the operating table.

[0011] This allows the input attachment to be used with a variety of surgical instruments, including various probes for superficial and deep brain regions, radio frequency (HF) devices, or scalpels, and is therefore preferably attached to the instrument that the surgeon will least likely change during surgery.

[0012] In this way, surgical handpieces such as stimulation probes and mapping aspiration devices can be more easily configured for use in simple procedures without a controller. Because the input attachments are in the low-risk category, there is no need to develop high-risk probes. The input attachments can also be realized as disposable products, eliminating the need for time-consuming reprocessing of the attachments.

[0013] The input attachment records input from the treating surgeon and converts it into control signals for transmission to the connected surgical device using an electrical interface configured to transmit electrical signals, such as one or more buttons, keys, control dials, or slide controls.

[0014] A medical-surgical device corresponding to the input attachment is provided with an interface suitable for converting control signals transmitted from the input attachment into stimulation signals or other outputs, which are transmitted to a surgical handpiece coupled to the surgical device.

[0015] Thus, three components—the input attachment, the surgical device, and the surgical handpiece—form a construct that can be used in a variety of surgical applications, including intraoperative neuromonitoring, motor and language mapping in neurosurgery, and spinal and peripheral surgery, particularly tumor resection.

[0016] For example, motor mapping involves stimulating tissue to identify brain structures that control movement. If stimulation-evoked potentials appear in the responsive muscles, it is believed that the function to be protected is located near the stimulation site. This includes, for example, Raabe-style subcortical mapping for tumor resection in neurosurgery, and mapping of the primary motor cortex and pyramidal tract, the latter of which requires probes with special geometries and parameters.

[0017] The probes used mainly include monopole probes with ball-shaped tips, fork probes, mapping aspirators, miniature bipolar coaxial probes (BCS), or micro-fork probes.

[0018] Tumor surgery may be performed in ENT surgery, general surgery, visceral surgery, endocrine surgery, or oral and maxillofacial surgery. The parameter to be controlled is primarily current intensity. For example, the present invention can be used for tumors in facial nerves, thyroid glands, or rectal cancer. Here, nerves can be identified based on the current threshold that elicits a response signal being lower than that of the surrounding tumor tissue.

[0019] An integrated handpiece is a medical instrument or tool that is typically held and used by a surgeon in one hand during surgery. Even if it consists of at least two components, for example, a surgical handpiece with an input attachment attached, the components are stably and non-sliply connected, so the feel of operation is no different from that of an instrument consisting of only one component.

[0020] By non-slip connection, we mean that the two components, the surgical handpiece and the input attachment, are attached in such a way that they do not change their relative position to one another even when slight forces are applied during normal use, i.e., the components will not slip relative to one another unless excessive forces that would not occur during normal use are applied.

[0021] Advantageous embodiments and further configurations are explained with reference to the dependent claims and the drawings.

[0022] According to another preferred refinement, the assembly interface comprises a receiving area configured to form a mating and / or insulation displacement connection between the input attachment and the surgical handpiece when the input attachment is placed on the surgical handpiece, thereby providing a non-slip handpiece that allows the input attachment and the surgical handpiece to be handled as a unit.

[0023] According to other preferred refinements, the mating and / or insulation displacement connection includes at least one of the following: at least one clip for clipping the receiving area to the surgical handpiece, at least one magnet for magnetically coupling to a magnet of opposite polarity on the surgical handpiece, an adhesive connection between the receiving area and the surgical handpiece, a bonded connection for gluing the receiving area to the surgical handpiece, and a mating dovetail or dovetail-type mating connection to the surgical handpiece, all of which provide a non-slip, solid, and robust one-piece handpiece for use during surgery.

[0024] According to another preferred refinement, the mating and / or insulation displacement connections are detachable, which allows for interchangeability and reuse of the input attachment and the surgical handpiece. The interchangeability of the input attachment allows the attachment to be attached to other surgical handpieces without the need for a separate input attachment.

[0025] According to another preferred refinement, the receiving area of ​​the assembly interface is configured to allow the surgical handpiece to be inserted into and surrounded by the interior area of ​​the receiving area in the unassembled state, and to non-sliply clamp the surgical handpiece to the interior area of ​​the receiving area in the assembled state, thereby providing a fixed, robust, and integrated handpiece, particularly for attachment to larger devices such as mapping and aspiration devices.

[0026] According to another preferred refinement, the non-slip connection is formed by a non-slip member provided in the receiving area, which in the assembled state at least makes it difficult for the input attachment to slip off the surgical handpiece, and in particular prevents the input attachment from slipping off the surgical handpiece.

[0027] According to another preferred refinement, the anti-slip connection is formed by a protrusion provided in the receiving area, which in the assembled state engages with the insert of the surgical handpiece and at least makes it difficult for the input attachment to slip out of the surgical handpiece, and in particular prevents the input attachment from slipping out of the surgical handpiece, and the protrusion is configured to be sufficiently deformable to make it difficult or prevent slipping of the mounted input attachment while still allowing engagement with the insert.

[0028] According to another preferred refinement, the electrical interface includes a bipolar electrical connection through which input signals to the surgical device can be directly received and also receive response signals from the surgical device, such as a stimulus response to a stimulus or a response to an output from a surgical handpiece to a treatment site, such as brain tissue. Such a connection allows for high-speed, latency-free signal transmission.

[0029] According to another preferred refinement, the electrical interface is configured to couple the surgical handpiece to the input attachment by a direct cable connection, which cable connection allows a secure and stable data exchange with, for example, a surgical device.

[0030] According to another preferred refinement, the electrical interface is configured to wirelessly couple the surgical handpiece to the input attachment via a spatial interface, this connection allowing greater freedom of movement for the person involved, for example a surgeon, and avoiding the need to pay attention to additional cables.

[0031] According to another preferred refinement, the spatial interface is an optical connection. The optical connection may be an infrared connection. The connection may be a wireless connection, for example a WLAN connection or a mobile radio connection, and / or a Bluetooth connection. These connections allow a sufficiently secure and fast data transmission depending on the desired application.

[0032] According to another preferred refinement, the electrical interface is located in the area of ​​the mechanical assembly interface. Furthermore, the mechanical assembly interface is configured to couple with a corresponding electrical interface of the surgical handpiece in the assembled state in order to transmit input signals to the surgical device via the surgical handpiece and to receive response signals from the surgical device. This allows signals to be transmitted and received between the surgical handpiece and the input attachment via the same connection, for example a cable connection with a single cable. This simplifies the complexity of the arrangement.

[0033] According to another preferred refinement, the input device comprises at least one button, keyboard, touchpad, rotary knob, and / or scroll wheel capable of recording user input, thereby allowing the surgeon to conveniently and flexibly control the surgical handpiece.

[0034] According to another preferred refinement, the input device is configured to provide tactile feedback in response to a user input, e.g., by providing a tactile signal when the surgeon has successfully performed an input, thereby allowing the surgeon to know that the input has been accepted, thereby improving safety in use of the handpiece.

[0035] According to another preferred refinement, the input device and the control device are configured to record input parameters for stimulation in the field of intraoperative nerve monitoring as user inputs and convert them into corresponding control signals. In this case, the parameters are particularly current intensity or frequency, which are frequently changed parameters. However, the parameters can also be pulse width, energy, stimulation frequency, e.g., 1 Hz or 30 Hz, pulse shape, switching from monopolar to bipolar signals, or simply switching stimulation on / off. The latter is preferred when using a mapping and suction device. This allows the surgical handpiece to be effectively used in intraoperative nerve monitoring.

[0036] According to another preferred refinement, the input device and the control device are configured to select at least one parameter of the parameter set, receive the selected parameter as a user input, and convert it into a corresponding control signal. The parameter set can also be automatically switched depending on the completed step in the workflow. This makes the surgical handpiece particularly flexible and user-friendly for use in intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM).

[0037] According to another preferred refinement, the control device is configured to use the control signal to control at least one device-specific parameter of the surgical handpiece or surgical device, including, in particular, comments, workflow, volume, baseline, switching back and forth in a workflow, opening a comments menu for setting standardized comments, or other parameters related to the working environment, thereby improving the working environment of the surgeon and preventing treatment errors.

[0038] According to another preferred refinement, a display device is provided which is adapted to output a response signal which is received by the surgical handpiece and transmitted, for example via a surgical device, directly or indirectly to an input attachment where it is converted into a corresponding response signal, which may in particular be an optical response signal, allowing the surgeon to immediately visualize, for example, the reaction of the stimulated nerve and to quickly adjust the treatment.

[0039] According to another preferred refinement, the display device is configured to display a received response signal based on a response to a stimulus or output emitted by the surgical handpiece based on a user input, whereby the response signal provides information regarding a response caused by the control signal, for example, at a stimulated area of ​​the patient.

[0040] According to another preferred refinement, the display device comprises a display and / or at least one LED, which is configured to output a response signal. The LED may be configured as an RGB LED for displaying different colors, in particular according to a traffic light system. Furthermore, the LED may be designed to flash and to be constantly lit. In particular, the display may be configured as a mini display, optionally with tactile feedback. Such a display has excellent visibility and is flexible to use.

[0041] According to another preferred refinement, the display device is configured to display at least one selected parameter and / or parameter value and / or parameter range and / or optical warning signal, thereby providing useful information for the surgeon.

[0042] According to another preferred refinement, the display device is configured to display at least one parameter of a third-party device connected to the surgical handpiece, the surgical instrument, and / or the input attachment. If the probe of the surgical handpiece is guided by a corresponding device, the response may be displayed in relation to the current position. This allows the surgeon to know the magnitude of the currently active parameter and to perform the treatment accordingly. This allows the surgeon to recognize the appropriate parameter range, improving the safety and accuracy of the treatment.

[0043] According to another preferred refinement, the display device is designed to provide tactile feedback and / or an acoustic response signal, which allows the treating surgeon to receive special attention, for example in case of parameter ranges being exceeded, which generally improves the accuracy of parameter setting and safety during treatment.

[0044] According to another preferred refinement, the display device is coupled to a control device via which it can be controlled, thereby allowing the display of the various response signals to be flexibly and individually configured for each surgeon, thereby increasing the applicability and usability of the input attachment.

[0045] According to another preferred refinement, the surgical device is configured as an intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM) device, which allows for neurological applications, such as stimulating tissue in the brain for mapping to identify areas controlling language or motor functions, and may also be configured as an RF or cryotherapy device.

[0046] According to a further refinement, the surgical device is electrically connected to the input attachment and the surgical handpiece for transmitting and receiving signals, whereby an input made via the input attachment may first be transmitted as a control signal to the surgical device, and from there, for example, a corresponding stimulation signal to the surgical handpiece.

[0047] Furthermore, the surgical handpiece may be mechanically attached to the input attachment such that the input attachment is attached to a location on the surgical handpiece that corresponds to the receiving area of ​​the input attachment. An integrated handpiece assembled in this manner is particularly easy to handle and highly useful in treating patients.

[0048] According to a further refinement, the surgical handpiece is configured as a monopolar or bipolar stimulation probe. According to another preferred refinement, the surgical handpiece is configured as a monopolar or bipolar mapping and aspiration device. These devices allow for more effective intraoperative neuromonitoring.

[0049] The above-described embodiments and improvements can be combined with one another in any suitable manner. In particular, all features of the input attachment and the surgical device can be transferred to the configuration, and all features of the input attachment can be transferred to the use of the input attachment in intraoperative neuromonitoring, and vice versa. Further possible embodiments, additional configurations and embodiments of the invention also include combinations not expressly described of the features of the invention described above or in connection with the examples described below. In this regard, those skilled in the art can add individual aspects as improvements or additions to each basic form of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0050] The invention will be explained in more detail below using examples shown in the schematic figures of the drawings. [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement including an input attachment, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an input attachment according to another embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the input attachment shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a surgical handpiece with the input attachment of FIGS. 2 and 3 disposed thereon. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an input attachment according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an input attachment according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a surgical handpiece having the input attachment of FIG. 5 or FIG. 6 disposed thereon. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of an input attachment, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of an input attachment, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of an input attachment, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of an input attachment, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of an input attachment, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to yet another embodiment.

[0051] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the present invention. Other embodiments and many of the described advantages will become apparent by reference to the drawings. Elements shown in the drawings may not be drawn to scale relative to each other.

[0052] In the various figures of the drawings, identical elements, features and components having the same function and acting in a similar manner are provided with the same reference numerals unless otherwise stated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0053] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement 100 including an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to a first embodiment. The arrangement 100 shown in FIG. 1 is for intraoperative use. The arrangement includes the input attachment 1, a surgical device 3 electrically connected to the input attachment 1, and a surgical handpiece 2 connected to the surgical device 3. During surgery, the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2 are in a sterile state. The input attachment 1 is configured to control at least one function of the surgical handpiece 2 via the surgical device 3.

[0054] The input attachment 1 includes an input device 4, such as a button or rotary controller. The input device 4 is configured to receive user input and transmit it to a controller 5 of the input attachment 1. The controller 5 is configured to generate a control signal for controlling the surgical handpiece 2 based on the received user input. The control signal is sent to an electrical interface 6 and transmitted via the electrical interface 6 to the surgical device 3.

[0055] The electrical interface 6 includes a monopolar electrical connection for transmitting input signals to the surgical device 3. In this embodiment, this is realized by a first connection 12 configured as a cable connection.

[0056] The input attachment 1 also includes a mechanical assembly interface 7. The assembly interface 7 is configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece 2 when the input attachment 1 is in an assembled state, allowing the input attachment 1 combined with the surgical handpiece 2 to be handled as an integrated handpiece.

[0057] The assembly interface 7 has a receiving area 8 that is configured to form a mating and / or crimp connection between the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2 when the input attachment 1 is placed on the surgical handpiece 2.

[0058] In this embodiment, the mechanical connection is configured as a mating connection and includes at least one clip for securing the receiving area 8 to the surgical handpiece 2. In other embodiments, the mating and / or insulation displacement connection includes at least one magnet for magnetic coupling with a magnet of opposite polarity in the surgical handpiece 2, an adhesive connection between the receiving area 8 and the surgical handpiece 2, a bonded connection for joining the receiving area 8 to the surgical handpiece 2, or a mating dovetail connection or a dovetail-shaped mating connection to the surgical handpiece 2.

[0059] In particular, the mating and / or insulation displacement connections are configured to be detachable.

[0060] The medical-surgical device 3 shown in FIG. 1 includes an electrical device interface 9 that includes a first interface 10 and a second interface 11 .

[0061] The first interface 10 is configured to receive control signals from an input attachment 1 coupled to the surgical device 3 via the electrical device interface 9. The second interface 11 is configured to transmit stimulation signals to a surgical handpiece 2 coupled to the surgical device 3 via the electrical device interface 9 based on the received control signals. This is achieved via a second electrical connection 13, which in this embodiment is configured as a cable connection. This allows operations input by the surgeon at the input attachment to be converted and output as stimulation or output at the surgical handpiece.

[0062] The input device 4 and the control device 5 are configured to receive as user input an input parameter for stimulation in the field of intraoperative neuromonitoring and convert it into a corresponding control signal. In particular, the parameter is current intensity. In yet other embodiments, the parameter is frequency, pulse width, pulse shape, voltage, energy, or on / off switching of a function.

[0063] The input device 4 and the control device 5 are also configured to select at least one parameter from the parameter set, receive the selected parameter as a user input, and convert it into a corresponding control signal, thereby allowing switching between different parameters, such as current strength or frequency.

[0064] 2 is a schematic diagram of an input attachment 1 according to yet another embodiment. In this embodiment, the input device 4 includes at least one button 14 for receiving user input. In other embodiments, the input device includes a keyboard, a touchpad, a rotary knob, and / or a scroll wheel. Furthermore, the input device 4 is configured to provide haptic feedback in response to the user input. This is accomplished by the button 14 vibrating during input.

[0065] The receiving area 8 of the mechanical interface 7 is configured as a circular section that corresponds to the cylindrical surgical handpiece 2 .

[0066] In this embodiment, the input attachment also includes a display device 24 configured to output a response signal, where the response signal is output as an optical response signal via two LEDs 15.

[0067] Although not shown in Figure 2, electrical interface 6 is configured to receive a response signal from surgical device 3. Display device 24 is configured to display the received response signal, which is received and displayed in response to the stimulus or output emitted by surgical handpiece 2 based on user input.

[0068] The display device 24 is coupled to the control device 5 and can be controlled or adjusted via the control device 5, although this is not shown here.

[0069] In yet another embodiment, display device 24 comprises a display portion.

[0070] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the input attachment 1 shown in FIG.

[0071] Engagement projections 16 are shown which engage corresponding recesses on the exterior of the surgical handpiece 2. In this manner, a secure, non-slip, and detachable mechanical connection is established between the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2.

[0072] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a surgical handpiece 2 with the input attachment of FIGS. 2 and 3 disposed thereon.

[0073] In this embodiment, the surgical handpiece 3 is configured as a monopolar stimulation probe. In yet another embodiment, the surgical handpiece 3 is configured as a bipolar stimulation probe. The surgical handpiece includes a beveled tip probe 17. In other embodiments, the probe is beveled at a different angle. Shorter or longer probes may be employed depending on the application.

[0074] The input attachment 1 is used for intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM). Figure 4 clearly shows the assembled state in which the input attachment is attached to a surgical handpiece 2. In particular, the assembly interface 7 is configured to form a non-slip connection between the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state, which allows the input attachment 1 combined with the surgical handpiece 2 to be handled as a simple and practical integrated handpiece.

[0075] 5 is a schematic diagram of an input attachment 1 according to yet another embodiment. In the input attachment 1 according to this embodiment, the receiving area 8 of the assembly interface 7 is configured so that the surgical handpiece 2 is inserted into the internal area 18 of the receiving area 8 in the unassembled state, the surgical handpiece 2 is enclosed within the receiving area 8, and the surgical handpiece 2 is clamped by the internal area 18 of the receiving area 8 to prevent slippage in the assembled state.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an input attachment according to yet another embodiment.

[0077] In the input attachment 1 according to this embodiment, a non-slip connection is formed by a non-slip member 19 provided in the receiving area 8, which makes it difficult for the input attachment 1 to come off the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state and substantially prevents it from coming off during normal use. The non-slip member 19 can be made of, for example, a plastic material. Here, the non-slip member 19 is implemented as an insert for the surgical handpiece 2.

[0078] In yet another embodiment, the non-slip connection can be constituted by a protrusion provided in the receiving area, which protrusion is adapted to engage with the insert of the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state and to at least resist, and in particular prevent, removal of the input attachment from the surgical handpiece 2.

[0079] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a surgical handpiece 2 in which the input attachment 1 of FIG. 5 or FIG. 6 is disposed.

[0080] In this embodiment, the surgical handpiece 2 is configured as a monopolar mapping and aspiration device. In yet another embodiment, the surgical handpiece 2 is configured as a bipolar mapping and aspiration device. Thus, in this embodiment, the input attachment 1 is used for intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM).

[0081] 4, where the input attachment 1 is configured for use with a stimulation probe, this clearly shows the assembly of the input attachment 1 configured for a mapping aspiration device with a surgical handpiece 2. Here, it is shown that the input attachment 1 combined with the surgical handpiece 2 can be used as a practical integrated handpiece.

[0082] 8 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of an arrangement 100 comprising an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3. The input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece are connected to the surgical device 3 configured as an intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM) device.

[0083] The surgical device 3 is electrically connected to the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2 for transmitting and receiving signals via first and second electrical connections 12, 13, both configured here as cable connections. The surgical handpiece 2 is mechanically attached to the input attachment 1 such that the input attachment 1 is attached to a position on the surgical handpiece 2 that corresponds to the receiving area 8 of the input attachment 1. This results in a handpiece that is easy for the surgeon to handle.

[0084] In this embodiment, the control device 5 is also configured to use the control signal to control at least one device-specific parameter of the surgical handpiece 2 or the surgical device 3. For example, it is possible to control comments and workflows of the surgical device 3. For example, it is possible to set comments related to the thyroid surgery, such as "start of surgery," "before left resection," and "after left resection," or to switch between different operation steps in the workflow, wizard, or device navigation.

[0085] In yet another embodiment, the electrical interface 6 is configured to couple the surgical handpiece 2 to the input attachment 1 by a direct cable connection.

[0086] 9 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of an arrangement 100 comprising an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3. In this embodiment, the electrical interface 6 is configured to wirelessly couple the surgical handpiece 2 to the input attachment via a spatial interface.

[0087] The spatial interface is configured as a wireless connection via a Bluetooth connection. In yet another embodiment, the spatial interface is configured as an optical connection, in particular configured as an infrared connection. In yet another embodiment, the wireless connection is configured as a WLAN connection or a mobile radio connection.

[0088] 10 is a schematic diagram of a configuration 100 comprising an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to yet another embodiment. In this configuration 100, the surgical handpiece 3 is configured as a mapping suction device. A surgical suction device 20 is connected to the surgical handpiece 2 and is used to suction tissue via a tube 21 during surgery, for example.

[0089] Display device 24 is configured to display at least one parameter of a third party device connected to input attachment 1, such as a surgical suction device in this example.

[0090] 11 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of an arrangement comprising an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3. In this embodiment, the first electrical connection 12 is also configured as a Bluetooth connection. In yet other embodiments, other wireless connections are used, as described in FIG. 9.

[0091] 12 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement 100 consisting of an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to yet another embodiment. In this embodiment, the electrical interface 6 of the input attachment 1 is located in the region of the mechanical interface. In the assembled state, the electrical interface 6 is coupled to a corresponding electrical interface 22 of the surgical handpiece 2 and is configured to transmit input signals to the surgical device 3 via the surgical handpiece 2 and to receive response signals from the surgical device 3. In this way, communication of the first and second electrical connections 12, 13 between the surgical handpiece 2 and the input attachment 1 and the surgical device 3 is performed via a common cable 23.

[0092] Although the present invention has been fully described above based on preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be modified in various forms. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1 Input Attachment 2 Surgical Handpieces 3 Surgical equipment 4 Input Devices 5. Control device 6 Electrical interface of input attachment 7 Assembly Interface 8 Containment Area 9. Device Interface for Surgical Devices 10 First electrical interface of surgical device 11 Second electrical interface of surgical device 12 First Electrical Connection 13 Second electrical connection 14 buttons 15 LED 16 Engagement protrusion / protrusion 17 Probe 18 Input attachment inner area 19 Anti-slip material 20 Surgical suction device 21 tubes 22 Surgical handpiece storage area 23 Common Cable 24 Display device 100 constructs

Claims

1. An input attachment (1) for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece (2) via an external surgical device (3), said surgical device (3) being coupled to said input attachment (1), said input attachment (1) comprising: an input device (4) configured to receive user input; a controller (5) configured to generate a control signal for controlling the surgical handpiece (2) based on the received user input; an electrical interface (6) through which the generated control signal is transmitted to the surgical device (3); and a mechanical assembly interface (7) configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece (2) in an assembled state of the input attachment (1) so that the input attachment (1) combined with the surgical handpiece (2) can be handled as an integrated handpiece.

2. 2. The input attachment of claim 1, wherein the assembly interface (7) comprises a receiving area (8) configured to form a mating and / or insulation displacement connection between the input attachment (1) and the surgical handpiece (2) when the input attachment (1) is placed on the surgical handpiece (2).

3. The fitting and / or insulation displacement connection is at least one clip for clipping said receiving area (8) to said surgical handpiece (2); at least one magnet for magnetically coupling to a magnet of opposite polarity on said surgical handpiece (2); an adhesive connection between the receiving area (8) and the surgical handpiece (2); a bonding connection for attaching said receiving area (8) to said surgical handpiece (2); a mating dovetail connection or a dovetail-shaped mating connection to the surgical handpiece (2); 3. The input attachment of claim 2, comprising at least one connection of:

4. 4. An input attachment according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the mating and / or insulation displacement connection is detachable.

5. 5. The input attachment according to claim 2, wherein the accommodating area (8) of the assembly interface (7) is configured such that in an unassembled state, the surgical handpiece (2) is inserted into and surrounded by an internal area of ​​the accommodating area (8), and in the assembled state, the surgical handpiece (2) is clamped in a non-slip manner in the internal area of ​​the accommodating area (8).

6. the anti-slip connection is formed by an anti-slip member (19) provided in the receiving area (8), In the assembled state, the anti-slip member (19) at least makes it difficult for the input attachment (1) to slip off the surgical handpiece (2), and in particular prevents the input attachment (1) from slipping off the surgical handpiece (2). An input attachment according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. the non-slip connection is formed by a protrusion (16) provided in the receiving area (8), An input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein in the assembled state, the protrusion (16) engages with an insertion portion of the surgical handpiece (2) to at least make it difficult for the input attachment (1) to slip off the surgical handpiece (2), and in particular to prevent the input attachment (1) from slipping off the surgical handpiece (2).

8. said electrical interface (6) comprising a bipolar electrical connection; 8. An input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein an input signal can be sent to the surgical device (3) and a response signal can be received by the surgical device (3) via the bipolar electrical connection.

9. An input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the electrical interface (6) is configured to couple the surgical handpiece (2) to the input attachment (1) by a direct cable connection.

10. The input attachment of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the electrical interface (6) is configured to wirelessly couple the surgical handpiece (2) to the input attachment (1) via a spatial interface.

11. 10. An input attachment according to claim 9, wherein the spatial interface is an optical connection, in particular an infrared connection, a wireless connection, for example a WLAN connection or a mobile radio connection, and / or a Bluetooth connection.

12. 9. The input attachment according to claim 8, wherein the electrical interface (6) is arranged in the region of the mechanical assembly interface (7) and is configured to be coupled to a corresponding electrical interface of the surgical handpiece (2) in the assembled state, for transmitting the input signal to the surgical device (3) via the surgical handpiece (2) and for receiving a response signal from the surgical device (3).

13. 13. An input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the input device (4) comprises at least one button (14), a keyboard, a touchpad, a rotary knob, and / or a scroll wheel capable of receiving user input.

14. An input attachment according to any preceding claim, wherein the input device (4) is configured to output haptic feedback in response to user input.

15. 15. The input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the input device (4) and the control device (5) are configured to receive parameter inputs, in particular current intensity or frequency, for stimulation in the field of intraoperative neuromonitoring as user inputs and convert them into corresponding control signals.

16. 16. An input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the input device (4) and the control device (5) are configured to select at least one parameter of a parameter set, to receive the selected parameter as the user input and to convert it into a corresponding control signal.

17. 17. The input attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the control device (5) is configured to control at least one device-specific parameter, in particular a comment or a workflow, of the surgical handpiece (2) or the surgical device (3) using the control signal.

18. An input attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, provided with a display device (24) arranged to output a response signal, in particular an optical response signal.

19. 20. The input attachment of claim 18, wherein the display device (24) is configured to display a received response signal based on a response of a stimulus output by the surgical handpiece (2) based on a user input.

20. 20. An input attachment according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the display device (24) comprises a display and / or at least one LED for outputting the reaction signal.

21. An input attachment according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the display device (24) is configured to display at least one selected parameter and / or parameter value and / or parameter range and / or optical warning signal.

22. 22. The input attachment of claim 18, wherein the display device is configured to display at least one parameter of the surgical handpiece, the surgical device, and / or a third-party device connected to the input attachment.

23. An input attachment according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the display device (24) is designed to output tactile feedback and / or an acoustic response signal.

24. An input attachment according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the display device (24) is coupled to the control device (5) and is controllable via the control device (5).

25. A surgical device (3) comprising a first electrical device interface (10) having a first interface (10) and a second interface (11), The first interface (10) is configured to receive control signals from an input attachment (1) coupled to the surgical device (3) via an electrical device interface according to any one of claims 1 to 24, The second interface (11) is configured to transmit a stimulation signal to a surgical handpiece (2) coupled to the surgical device (3) via the electrical device interface (9) based on the received control signal.

26. The surgical device (3) of claim 25, wherein the surgical device (3) is configured as an intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM) device.

27. At least one input attachment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24, A surgical device (3) according to claim 25 or 26, An arrangement for intraoperative use comprising: at least one surgical handpiece (2).

28. the surgical device (3) is electrically connected to the input attachment (1) and the surgical handpiece (2) for transmitting and receiving signals; 28. The arrangement of claim 27, wherein the surgical handpiece (2) is mechanically securable to the input attachment (1) such that the input attachment (1) is fixed at a position on the surgical handpiece (2) corresponding to the receiving area (8) of the input attachment (1).

29. 29. Arrangement according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the surgical handpiece (3) is configured as a monopolar or bipolar stimulation probe.

30. 29. The arrangement according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the surgical handpiece (3) is configured as a monopolar or bipolar mapping suction device.

31. Use of an input attachment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24 for intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM).

Images