Implant System

Abstract

In order to improve the color coding in the case of an implant system comprising at least two different color-coded implants and at least two different color-coded medical instruments, the color coding of the at least two instruments corresponds to the color coding of the at least two implants, the coding of the at least two medical instruments comprises at least one coding element, the at least two medical instruments each comprise a first tool element and at least one second tool element for jointly handling one of the at least two implants, the first tool element and the at least one second tool element are movable relative to each other, and a distal end of each instrument is provided. It is proposed that the at least two tools are arranged or formed at the proximal end of the tool, each of the at least two tools having an actuating device, the actuating device being arranged or formed at the proximal end of the tool and cooperating with the at least two tool elements to move the first tool element and the at least one second tool element relative to each other as a result of actuation of the actuating device, at least one coding element being arranged on the first tool element and the at least one second tool element fixing the at least one coding element in a working position of the respective tool, the first tool element and the at least one second tool element being movable relative to each other between a first extreme position and a second extreme position on the first tool element which resists movement in a direction towards the second tool element.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an implant system comprising at least two different color-coded implants and at least two different color-coded medical instruments, wherein the color-coding of the at least two instruments corresponds to the color-coding of the at least two implants, the coding of the at least two medical instruments comprises at least one coding element, the at least two medical instruments each comprising a first tool element and at least one second tool element for jointly handling one of the at least two implants, the first tool element and the at least one second tool element being movable relative to each other and being arranged or formed at a distal end of the respective instruments, and the at least two instruments each comprising an actuator, the actuator being arranged or formed at a proximal end of the instruments and cooperating with the at least two tool elements to move the first tool element and the at least one second tool element relative to each other as a result of an actuation of the actuator. [Background technology]

[0002] Implant systems of the type described at the outset are used in particular when the association between the implant and the instruments provided therefor, for example application instruments, should be simplified for the user. Coloured markings, also called coding, serve this purpose.

[0003] In the case of titanium instruments, it is known to produce a color coding by anodizing, however the coloring of the instruments by this method may fade or, in the worst case, change color as the number of completed processing cycles increases.

[0004] Alternatively, especially in the case of instruments made of surgical steel, coding elements made of plastic material are used as color markings, which are screwed onto the instruments or fixed to them by an interference fit. However, such coding elements hide the risk of coming loose or coming completely off the instruments and thus being lost. In particular, it is absolutely unacceptable for the coding element to come off the instruments during a surgical procedure.

[0005] Although it is in principle possible to fix the coding element on the device using an adhesive, this often leads to biocompatibility problems. Apart from this, it must be taken into account that the adhesive ages and thereby loses its functionality, which increases the risk of the coding element being inappropriately detached from the device.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve color coding in the case of implant systems of the type described at the outset. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This object is achieved by the invention with an implant system of the type described at the beginning, in which at least one coding element is arranged on a first tool element and at least one second tool element fixes the at least one coding element in a working position of the respective instrument, the first tool element and the at least one second tool element being movable relative to one another between a first and a second extreme position on the first tool element resisting movement in a direction towards the second tool element.

[0008] As a result of the proposed further development of the implant system, the tool element is in particular used to hold the at least one coding element on the one hand and to fix the at least one coding element on the first tool element in the working position on the other hand. Thus, the at least one coding element cannot fall off the first tool element even if the connection to the first tool element is released, so that a loss of the at least one coding element can be prevented, in particular during a surgical procedure. This is prevented by the at least one second tool element, which essentially forms a stop or a movement limit for the at least one coding element in a direction away from the first tool element and towards the second tool element. The proposed further development makes it possible in particular to forgo the use of adhesives. Thus, a loss or an undesired separation and associated loss of the at least one coding element from the first tool element, in particular during a surgical procedure, can be prevented particularly effectively. Furthermore, an easy association of the implant with the associated instruments is possible by means of the color coding. The color coding on the implants and on the associated or corresponding instruments preferably matches to allow a clear association for the user, i.e. as to which instruments the user will use to handle which implants.

[0009] It is preferred that each instrument comprises at least two coding elements, at least one of the at least two coding elements being arranged on the first tool element and / or on the at least one second tool element. Thus, in particular, differentiation of the various instruments can be improved. For example, a coding element may be arranged on each tool element such that the coding of the instrument is always easily visible, i.e. independently of how the instrument is placed or held.

[0010] It is advantageous if the first tool element and the at least one second tool element are arranged or formed so as to be displaceable or pivotable about a pivot axis relative to one another. In particular, a forceps-like or scissors-like instrument can thus be formed. For example, the tool elements pivotable relative to one another may also be arranged at the distal end of a tubular or sliding shaft. For example, the fixation of the coding element can also be achieved by a second tool element displaceable relative to the coding element. For example, this can be made possible by a displacement of the second tool element relative to the first tool element parallel to the longitudinal axis of the instrument.

[0011] The instrument can be constructed in a simple manner when a first tool element and at least one second tool element are coupled or connected to one another by a pivot member defining a pivot axis. Thus, the mouth portion defining the instrument mouth can be created by two or more tool elements, i.e. both in the case of scissor-like instruments with rigid prongs and in the case of tubular shaft instruments or sliding shaft instruments.

[0012] The connection of the tool elements to one another is possible in a simple manner, in particular by the pivot members being configured in the form of connecting screws or in the form of rivets.

[0013] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the first tool element and at least one second tool element are movably attached relative to each other in the support area, and at least one coding element may be provided arranged on the first tool element distal to the support area. For example, the support area may be a coupling area of ​​the instruments, where the tool elements are coupled to each other, for example by a pivot member. The coding of the instruments is easily visible as a result of the arrangement of at least one coding element distal to the support area. Furthermore, the coding of the instruments is close to the implants handled by the instruments. This allows the user to easily and reliably visually check whether the appropriate instrument for the respective implant has been selected. This is the case when the color codings match or correspond to each other, for example have the same color. If the color codings are different, for example due to the color of the coding element being a different color from the color of the implant, the correct association does not apply.

[0014] It is preferred that the first tool element has a coding element receptacle, in which the at least one coding element is at least partially, in particular completely, held in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner and / or by material bonding. The at least one coding element may be completely accommodated in the coding element receptacle or may partially protrude therefrom. The coding element receptacle in particular allows for a secure holding of the at least one coding element on the first tool element, in particular in the working position. In particular, the coding element receptacle may be configured to prevent a movement of the at least one coding element in a direction away from the at least one second tool element. This can be achieved by a force-locking or positive-locking connection between the at least one coding element and the first tool element. Optionally, additionally or alternatively, the at least one coding element may also be connected to the instrument by material bonding. Thus, in particular an additional fixation of the coding element on the instrument can be achieved.

[0015] It is advantageous if the at least one coding element is held in the coding element receptacle exclusively in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner, in particular without adhesives, or exclusively by material bonding, so that for example it can be completely fixed without the use of adhesives or the like, thereby increasing the service life of the device, or the coding element can be fixed exclusively by material bonding, for example by gluing, soldering or welding, minimizing the production costs.

[0016] The at least one coding element can be coupled to the first tool element in a simple manner when the at least one coding element is screwed into the coding element receptacle, or alternatively, can be pressed in with a positive locking manner.

[0017] The coding element receptacle preferably comprises perforations, which in particular may allow easy recognition of the at least one coding element accommodated and held in the coding element receptacle, such that a user can directly recognize which color the coding element held in the coding element receptacle has when looking at the outer surface of the first tool element facing away from the second tool element.

[0018] The at least one coding element can be fixed in a simple manner in the coding element receptacle if the drilling has an internal thread, so that the coding element can be screwed into the coding element receptacle.

[0019] Advantageously, the at least one coding element has an external thread corresponding to the internal thread, such an arrangement facilitating coupling of the at least one coding element to the first tool element.

[0020] In order to further reduce the risk of the at least one coding element coming off the first tool element, it is advantageous if the perforation tapers at least in cross section in the direction towards the outside from the at least one second tool element. It may also taper over its entire length. The perforation thus forms a stop for the at least one coding element on the first tool element and thus forms a fixing device. Thus, movement of the first tool element through the perforation and away from the second tool element can be reliably prevented.

[0021] The manufacture of the instrument can be simplified in particular by the coding element receptacle defining a coding element receptacle longitudinal axis extending parallel or substantially parallel to the pivot axis, so that the coding of the instrument can be easily recognized when the support area of ​​the instrument is visible.

[0022] It is preferred that the first tool element has a thickness in a direction parallel to the coding element receptacle, the length of the coding element corresponding at most to approximately the thickness of the tool element. In particular, it is therefore possible to configure the coding element to be flush with both sides, i.e. on one side with the outer side of the first tool element facing away from the second tool element, and on the other side with the side of the first tool element facing in a direction towards the second tool element.

[0023] It is advantageous if the coding element receptacle has a viewing opening facing away from the at least one second tool element and an insertion opening facing towards the at least one second tool element, the cross-sectional area of ​​the viewing opening being smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the insertion opening. This configuration in particular allows for fixing in a simple manner the at least one coding element in the coding element receptacle so that it does not fall out through the viewing opening. By selecting the cross-sectional areas of the viewing opening and the insertion opening, the at least one coding element can for example be introduced into the coding element receptacle exclusively via the insertion opening. It is thus practically impossible to pass through the coding element receptacle and through the viewing opening.

[0024] It is preferred that the insertion opening in the working position is at least partially, in particular completely, covered or closed by the at least one second tool element, in which way the at least one second tool element can fix the at least one coding element in the coding element receptacle such that it does not fall out when the instrument takes up the working position.

[0025] In order to be able to easily and reliably clean the instrument, it is possible for the instrument to be moved from the working position to a processing position in which the first tool element and the at least one second tool element are moved relative to one another beyond one of two extreme positions, and the at least one second tool element releases the at least one coding element, in particular preferably opens the insertion opening in the processing position. For example, in the processing position the tool elements can be pivoted by more than 90° relative to one another. In any case, in the processing position they are moved relative to one another such that the at least one second tool element no longer even partially covers the at least one coding element. This can be achieved in particular by the at least one second tool element opening the insertion opening in the working position.

[0026] The at least one coding element is fixed in the coding element receptacle, in particular in the processing position, preferably by material bonding to the first tool element and / or by plastic deformation together with the first tool element. This further development makes it possible in particular to very reliably prevent the at least one coding element in the processing position from unintentionally detaching from the first tool element. The material bonding can in particular be achieved by welding or soldering. The plastic deformation can in particular lead to a local and positive engagement, which prevents a movement of the at least one coding element relative to the coding element receptacle.

[0027] The at least one coding element can be fixed in a simple manner in the coding element receptacle if it is fixed therein by breaking or destroying at least one thread of the male and / or female thread. For example, breaking of the thread can be achieved by laser welding. Breaking of the at least one thread can be performed mechanically, for example, by means of a tool suitable therefor. It can thus be prevented in particular that the thread of the at least one coding element can be unscrewed from the coding element receptacle.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that an end face of at least one coding element facing away from the at least one second tool element is arranged or formed flush or substantially flush with a side face of the first tool element facing away from the at least one second tool element. Thus, in particular, an end face of the coding element extending transversely to the coding element longitudinal axis can be substantially seamlessly integrated into the side face of the first tool element. In other words, a flush fit of the coding element can be achieved.

[0029] The assembly of the implant system can be simplified in particular by the at least one coding element having an open tool engagement element facing in a direction towards the at least one second tool element. In particular, the tool engagement element may be configured in the form of a slit, an internal polygonal socket or an internal multi-lobed socket. Such a configuration in particular simplifies the introduction, for example the screwing, of the at least one coding element into the coding element receptacle.

[0030] Advantageously, at least one coding element is arranged on at least one second tool element in a similar manner as on the first tool element. It is therefore possible, as described above, in particular to equip both or all tool elements with a coding element. If a coding element is arranged on at least one second tool element, the first tool element prevents the coding element from passing in a direction towards the first tool element. Arranging two or more coding elements on an instrument has the advantage, in particular, that the user can easily recognize the coding of the instrument, regardless of the location or orientation of the instrument.

[0031] It is preferred that at least one of the at least two instruments comprises at least two coding elements, and at least one of the at least two coding elements is arranged or formed on the actuation device. Thus, the instruments can still be reliably identified, in particular when the coding element arranged or formed on one of the tool elements is no longer recognizable, for example due to contamination, or when the coding element is covered by living tissue during the surgical procedure. In particular, two, three or more coding elements may be arranged on the actuation device, which further improves the association of the instruments with the implant.

[0032] In particular, the handling of the implant system can be further simplified if the actuation device comprises two actuation elements which are movable, in particular pivotable, relative to one another. Such a configuration of the actuation device allows in particular the handling of a scissor-like style instrument. For example, the actuation device may comprise two branches which are pivotable relative to one another and which are rigidly connected to the tool element or which are connected to the tool element by means of a force transmission member. Thus, on the one hand, a scissor-like instrument or a tubular or sliding shaft instrument can also be formed.

[0033] A simple construction of the at least two instruments can in particular be achieved by the two working elements being configured in the form of rigid branches, the distal end of each working element supporting or carrying a tool element.

[0034] The two actuating elements are preferably pivotable about a pivot axis. Thus, a particularly simple construction of the instrument can be achieved.

[0035] It is advantageous if one of the at least two coding elements is arranged on at least one of the two operating elements. In particular, at least one coding element may be arranged or formed on each of the two operating elements. Two or more coding elements may be arranged or formed on each operating element. The association of the instrument with the implant can still be ensured if the coding element arranged or formed on one of the tool elements is no longer recognizable, for example due to contamination, or if the coding element is covered by living tissue during the surgical procedure.

[0036] It may further be advantageous if the tool comprises a biasing device for exerting a biasing force that holds the actuating device in an extreme position. For example, the biasing device holds the two actuating elements in an extreme position in which they have been moved away from each other to a maximum extent, in which the tool elements are at a maximum distance from each other. In particular, the extreme position defined by the biasing device may be a position in which at least one tool assumes a working position. Thus, it can be ensured by the biasing device that at least one coding element is fixed on the first tool element, in particular, i.e. in particular when at least one tool is not actuated.

[0037] It is advantageous if the biasing device comprises at least one biasing element and the two actuating elements are movable towards each other against the action of the at least one biasing element. For example, each actuating element may comprise a biasing element, which is also formed integrally with the actuating element, for example, in particular as a leaf spring. The free ends of the biasing elements forming the free ends of the respective actuating elements may for example be in particular movably connected to each other.

[0038] The biasing device is preferably deactivatable to transfer at least one medical instrument from the working position to the processing position. For example, the biasing device may define extreme positions in the working position in which the actuating elements, in particular also the tool elements, are at a maximum distance from each other. For example, the biasing elements which engage with each other in the working position can be disengaged in order to transfer the actuating elements and the tool elements connected or coupled thereto from the working position to the processing position.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least two instruments may be provided that are configured in the form of clip appliers, in particular that they may have differently shaped tool elements so as to be able to handle different sized implants in the form of clips.

[0040] Advantageously, at least two implants are configured in the form of surgical clips. In particular, they may be configured in the form of aneurysm clips. Such implants may be used in particular for clamping blood vessels.

[0041] An implant system can be color coded in a simple and cost-effective manner if at least one coding element is made from plastic or metal.

[0042] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, at least two implants are made from an implant material and at least two corresponding coding elements are made from a coding element material, which may be provided as being identical. This arrangement makes it possible in particular to achieve an identical or at least nearly identical color coding of both the implants and the coding elements, and thus of the instruments. It can therefore allow a particularly good visual association between the instruments and the implants.

[0043] The surfaces of the at least two implants and the surfaces of the at least two coding elements are preferably at least partially, in particular completely, colored or provided with a colored coating. An arrangement of this kind allows in particular a very good visual association between the implants and the associated instrument.

[0044] It may be preferred that the at least one coding element is colored via or has a colored surface and that the at least two implants are similarly color-coded. If the at least one coding element and the at least two implants are similarly color-coded, a particularly good match of the color impressions can be achieved, which makes it easier for the user to associate the implants with the device.

[0045] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention serves in conjunction with the drawings for further explanation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0046] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective overall view of a first embodiment of an implant system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an enlarged partial view of the arrangement extracted from FIG. 1; [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a view in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a view in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 of the distal end of one embodiment of a medical instrument in a processing position. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective partial view of the tool element before insertion of the coding element. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a cutaway view taken along line 3-7 of FIG. 3 in the case of a closed device. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a perspective overall view of a further embodiment of a device having at least two coding elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] One embodiment of an implant system is shown generally in Figure 1 and designated generally by the reference numeral 10. The implant system 10 comprises a first medical device 12 and a medical device 14, both of which are shown generally in Figure 1.

[0048] Alternate embodiments of the implant system 10 may include additional instruments.

[0049] The implant system 10 further comprises a first implant 16 and a second implant 18, shown diagrammatically in Figure 1. The first instrument 12 and the second instrument 14 differ in at least one characteristic, such as size or actuation force.

[0050] To distinguish between the instruments 12 and 14, they are color coded, as described in more detail below.

[0051] The instrument 12 is shown, by way of example, in the form of a clip applier 20 .

[0052] The first implant 16 is shown, by way of example, as a surgical clip 22 , in the form of an aneurysm clip 24 .

[0053] To be able to distinguish the implants 16 and 18 from one another, they are color coded. The first implant 16 is colored a first color and the second implant 18 is colored a different color. Such color coding of the implants 16 and 18 and the optional further implants comprised by the implant system 10 allows the user to easily distinguish between them.

[0054] The implants 16 and 18 may differ, inter alia, in shape and size, as well as, for example, the closure or clamping force of the two clamping arms 26 and 28 , which is exerted by a spring element 30 of the clip 22 .

[0055] The instruments 12 and 14 are also color coded to ensure that the appropriate instrument 12, 14 can be selected to handle the respective implants 16, 18. This purpose is served by coding elements 32 and 34 located on the respective instruments 12 and 14.

[0056] The instrument 12 shown in the figures comprises two elongated branches 36 and 38 movably mounted relative to one another within a support region 40. The distal ends of the branches 36 and 38 form first and second tool elements 42 and 44 capable of receiving and holding the implant 16 or 18 between the first and second tool elements 42 and 44.

[0057] Branches 36 and 38 form actuating elements 46 and 48 of an actuator of instrument 12 , generally designated by the reference numeral 50 .

[0058] The actuation elements 46 and 48 are movable relative to each other, i.e. pivotable about the pivot axis 52. The tool elements 42 and 44 are thus coupled to each other so as to be pivotable about the pivot axis 52.

[0059] The pivot axis 52 is defined by a pivot member 54. In the illustrated embodiment of the instrument 12, the pivot member 54 is configured in the form of a connecting screw 56. In an alternative embodiment, the pivot member 54 may be configured in the form of a rivet.

[0060] The instrument 12 further includes a biasing device 58 for exerting a biasing force that holds the actuator 50 in the extreme position.

[0061] The biasing device 50 comprises two biasing elements 60 and 62 arranged and configured such that the two actuating elements 46 and 48 are movable towards each other against the action of the biasing elements 58 and 60.

[0062] Biasing elements 60 and 62 form proximal end portions of actuating elements 46 and 48. The free ends 64 and 66 of biasing elements 60 and 62, which thus also form the free ends 64 and 66 of actuating elements 46 and 48, engage one another to hold instrument 12 in an open position defining a first extreme position, as shown diagrammatically in FIG.

[0063] When the actuating elements 46 and 48 are moved toward one another, the branches 36 and 38, along with the tool elements 42 and 44 formed on the branches 36 and 38, pivot toward one another, thereby closing the instrument port 68 defined by the two tool elements 42 and 44.

[0064] In the working position of the instrument 12, the free ends 64 and 66 of the biasing elements 60 and 62 are engaged. A further, or second, extreme position in the working position is defined by the maximum proximity of the tool elements 42 and 44, i.e., when the instrument port 68 is closed, as shown diagrammatically in cross section in Figure 7. The closed position thus defined defines the second extreme position of the instrument port.

[0065] The tool elements 42 and 44 can be moved relative to one another between these two defined extreme positions when the free ends 64 and 66 of the biasing elements 60 and 62 are engaged with one another, as described and shown diagrammatically in FIG.

[0066] Once the free ends 64 and 66 are out of engagement, the prongs 36 and 38 can be pivoted even further away from one another, for example to the position shown in FIG. 5 in which the tool elements 42 and 44 are aligned approximately perpendicular to one another.

[0067] When the free ends 64 and 66 are disengaged, the prongs 36 and 38 can pivot relative to one another essentially of their own accord. When the tool elements 42 and 44 are in the open position, i.e., further apart from one another than in the first extreme position shown in Figure 1, the instrument 12 is in a processing position. The instrument 12 preferably remains in this position during cleaning and sterilization, i.e., processing.

[0068] Thus, as described, the biasing device 58 can be deactivated to transition the tool 12 from the working position to the processing position.

[0069] The coding element 32 is received on the instrument 12 in a coding element receptacle 70 formed on the first tool element 42 distal to the pivot axis 52 and therefore distal to the support region 40.

[0070] The coding element receptacle 70 is configured in the form of a perforation 72 .

[0071] In one embodiment, the bore 72 includes an internal thread 74 .

[0072] The coding element receptacle 70 defines a coding element receptacle longitudinal axis 76 that extends parallel to the pivot axis 52 .

[0073] The coding element 32 has external threads 78 that correspond to the internal threads 74 , allowing the coding element 32 to be screwed into the coding element receptacle 70 .

[0074] The coding element receptacle 70 has a viewing opening 80 facing away from the second tool element 44 and an insertion opening 82 facing toward the second tool element 44. The cross-sectional area of ​​the viewing opening 80 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the insertion opening 82. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by forming a tapered portion 84 between the insertion opening 82 and the viewing opening 80. The tapered portion borders a hollow cylindrical bore 86 that is provided with the internal threads 74.

[0075] The coding element 32 further has a tool engagement element 88 in the form of a slit 90 that opens in a direction towards the second tool element 44 .

[0076] In an alternative embodiment, tool engaging element 88 is configured in the form of an internal polygonal socket or an internal multi-lobular socket.

[0077] Because the perforations 72, as described, are tapered in cross section in a direction outward from the second tool element 44, the coding element receptacle 70 can receive the coding element 32 in a positive locking manner, in such a way that the coding element 32 cannot pass through the viewing opening 80. As a result of the configuration of the coding element receptacle 70, the coding element 32 is secured on the first tool element 42 so as not to fall out through the viewing opening.

[0078] The coding element 32 is also further secured against falling out of the coding element receptacle 70 via the insertion opening 82 .

[0079] The first fixing element forms the second tool element 44, thereby holding the insertion opening 82 at least partially covered or closed in the working position and also fully covered or closed in a different position.

[0080] In the cutaway view of Figure 7 it is easily seen that the second tool element 44 in the closed position completely covers and therefore closes the insertion opening 82. This is also easily visible in Figure 4. In the position of the tool elements 42 and 44 relative to one another shown in Figure 4, i.e. in the second extreme position, in the working position, i.e. in the position in which the biasing elements 60 and 62 are engaged with one another by their free ends 64 and 66, the second tool element 42 completely covers the insertion opening 82 such that the coding element 32 is not visible.

[0081] However, the second tool element 44 fully opens the insertion opening 82 in the processing position, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 5. In the processing position, the tool elements 42 and 44 are moved relative to each other beyond one of two defined extreme positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the first extreme position is defined by the maximum opening of the instrument port 68 with the free ends 64 and 66 of the biasing elements 60 and 62 engaged, as already explained. Beyond this extreme position, the tool elements 42 and 44 can be pivoted much further away from each other when the free ends 64 and 66 are disengaged.

[0082] In this manner, the coding element 32 is retained within the coding element receptacle 70 in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner, i.e. exclusively in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner, i.e. without adhesive.

[0083] The first tool element 42 has a thickness 92 in a direction parallel to the coding element receptacle longitudinal axis 76. A length 94 of the coding element 32 parallel to the coding element receptacle longitudinal axis 76 corresponds to approximately the thickness 92 of the tool element 42.

[0084] In one embodiment, the coding element 32 is further secured within the coding element receptacle 70 such that the coding element 32, in the processing position with the second tool element 44 opening the insertion opening 82, cannot fall out of the coding element receptacle 70. In one embodiment, this is achieved by materially bonding the coding element 32 to the first tool element 42 and / or by plastically deforming the coding element 32 with the tool element 42.

[0085] In one embodiment, this additional fixation is achieved by fracturing or breaking the threads of the male and / or female threads 78. For example, this may be done by laser welding.

[0086] Permanent plastic deformation of the coding element and / or tool element 42 in the mutually engaged area can permanently prevent relative movement of the coding element 32 with respect to the coding element receptacle 70 and thus with respect to the first tool element 42.

[0087] A further embodiment of the first medical device 12 of the implant system 10 is shown diagrammatically in FIG.

[0088] The embodiment of the instrument 12 shown in FIG. 8 corresponds substantially in its structure to the embodiment of the first medical instrument 12 described in FIGS. 1 to 7. Therefore, for the sake of clarity, the same reference numbers are used for identical components and parts. However, the embodiment of FIG. 8 differs from the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 7 in that on each of the two actuating elements 46 and 48 there is formed a respective thickening 180 in the form of a rounded protrusion pointing in a direction towards the respective other actuating element 46 or 48. Each of the two thickenings 180 is formed with a hollow cylindrical coding element receptacle 170, which defines a longitudinal axis 172 extending parallel to the pivot axis 52.

[0089] Two thickened portions 180 are each disposed or formed on actuating elements 46 and 48 at the transition areas to biasing elements 60 and 62, respectively.

[0090] Each coding element 132 is inserted into two coding element receptacles 170. The two coding elements 132 correspond to the coding elements 32 and are thus, for example, identically color coded.

[0091] The two additional coding elements 132 disposed or formed on the actuator 50 enable the surgeon to reliably handle the corresponding first implant 16 with the instrument 12, for example, even if the coding elements 32 are contaminated or otherwise invisible.

[0092] In an alternative embodiment of the medical device 12, instead of two thickened portions 180 as shown in FIG. 8, a thickened portion 180 having a coding element 132 is disposed or formed on only one of the two actuating elements 46 or 48.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, an end 96 of the coding element 32 facing outward from the second tool element 44 is positioned or formed flush or substantially flush with a side 98 of the first tool element 42 facing away from the second tool element 44.

[0094] In one embodiment, the coding elements 32 and / or 132 are made from a plastic material.

[0095] In one embodiment, coding elements 32 and / or 132 are made from metal.

[0096] Implants 16 and 18 are made from an implant material. Coding elements 32, 132, and 34 are made from a coding element material. In one embodiment, the implant material and the coding element material are the same. This makes it possible, in particular, to design coding elements 32 and 132 or 34 and implants 16 and 18 to be colored in the same way.

[0097] In one embodiment, the surfaces of implants 16 and 18 and the surfaces of coding elements 32, 132, and 34 are at least partially colored or provided with a color coating. In one embodiment, the surfaces of implants 16 and 18 and the surfaces of coding elements 32, 132, and 34 are completely colored or provided with a color coating.

[0098] In one embodiment, the coding elements 32, 132, and 34 are colored through or have a colored surface. The implants 16 and 18 are similarly color coded. Thus, an exact match of the color coding of both the implants 16, 18 and the appliances 12, 14 can be achieved.

[0099] The coding of the instruments 12 and 14 can be further improved if, in addition to the coding element 32 on the first tool element 42, a further coding element is arranged in a similar manner on the second tool element 44. The coding element arranged on the second tool element 44 is then fixed by the first tool element 42 so as not to fall off in the working position.

[0100] Arranging the second coding element on the second tool element 44 has the advantage in particular that the coding of the instrument 12 is also visible in the view diagrammatically shown in Figure 4. Thus, a reliable association of the instruments 12 and 14 with the corresponding implants 16 and 18, respectively, can be achieved.

[0101] The implant system 10 can in principle comprise any number of implants, in particular there may be three or more different implants.

[0102] Each implant type is preferably color coded with a different color in the implant system 10. The implant system 10 may include any number of instruments, specifically, i.e., is not limited to instruments 12 and 14. The implant system 10 preferably includes a plurality of different instruments corresponding to a plurality of different implants.

[0103] The described coding of the instruments 12 and 14 is not limited to the clip applier 20 shown diagrammatically in the figures, but can also be made in the case of any other instrument in which one of the tool elements of the instrument, for example the second tool element, fixes the coding element on the first tool element so as not to lose it in the working position. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 10 Implant Systems 12 First Medical Device 14 Second medical device 16 First Implant 18 Second Implant 20 Clip applier 22 clips 24 Aneurysm Clip 26 Clamp arm 28 Clamp arm 30 Spring elements 32 Coding Elements 34 Coding Elements 36 Branch 38 Branch 40 support area 42 First Tool Element 44 Second Tool Element 46 Actuating Elements 48 Actuating Elements 50 Actuator 52 Pivot axis 54 Pivot member 56 Connecting screw 58 Actuating device 60 Actuation element 62 Actuating element 64 Free end 66 Free end 68 Instrument mouth 70 Coding Element Receptacle 72 Perforation 74 Female thread 76 Coding element receptacle longitudinal axis 78 Male thread 80 Viewing Opening 82 Insertion opening 84 Taper 86 Bore section 88 Tool Engagement Element 90 Slit 92 Thickness 94 Length 96 End 98 Side 132 Coding Elements 170 Coding Element Receptacle 172 Vertical Axis 180 Thickened area

Claims

1. An implant system (10) comprising at least two different color-coded implants (16, 18) and at least two different color-coded medical instruments (12, 14), a color coding of the at least two instruments (12, 14) corresponds to a color coding of the at least two implants (16, 18); the coding of the at least two medical instruments (12, 14) comprises at least one coding element (32, 34); each of the at least two medical instruments (12, 14) comprising a first tool element (42) and at least one second tool element (44) for jointly handling one of the at least two implants (16, 18); the first tool element (42) and the at least one second tool element (44) are movable relative to one another and are disposed or formed at a distal end of the respective instruments (12, 14); 1. An implant system (10) wherein the at least two instruments (12, 14) each comprise an actuator (50) disposed or formed at a proximal end of the instrument (12, 14) and cooperating with the at least two tool elements (42, 44) to move the first tool element (42) and the at least one second tool element (44) relative to one another as a result of actuation of the actuator (50), the at least one coding element (32) is disposed on the first tool element (42); the at least one second tool element (44) fixes the at least one coding element (32) on the first tool element (42) against movement in a direction towards the at least one second tool element (44) in a working position of the respective instrument (12, 14); 1. An implant system (10), characterized in that the first tool element (42) and the at least one second tool element (44) are movable relative to each other in the working position between a first extreme position and a second extreme position.

2. Each device (12, 14) comprises at least two coding elements (32, 34); 2. The implant system according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the at least two coding elements (32, 34) is arranged on the first tool element and / or on the at least one second tool element (42, 44).

3. The first tool element (42) and the at least one second tool element (44) a) arranged or configured to be pivotable relative to one another about a pivot axis (52); In particular, the first tool element (42) and the at least one second tool element (44) are coupled or connected to each other by a pivot member (54) that defines the pivot axis (52); More specifically, the pivot member (54) is configured in the form of a connecting screw (56) or in the form of a rivet, and / or 3. An implant system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: b) the at least one coding element (32, 34) is movably mounted relative to one another within a support area (40), the at least one coding element (32, 34) being arranged on the first tool element (42) distal to the support area (40).

4. 4. An implant system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first tool element (42) has a coding element receptacle (70) and the at least one coding element (32, 34) is at least partially, in particular completely, held in the coding element receptacle (70) in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner and / or by a material bond.

5. The at least one coding element (32, 34) a) is held in said coding element receptacle (70) exclusively in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner, in particular without adhesive or exclusively by material bonding, and / or 5. An implant system according to claim 4, characterized in that: b) said coding element is screwed into said coding element receptacle (70).

6. The coding element receptacle (70) a) comprising perforations (72); In particular, said perforations (72) - has an internal thread (74), said at least one coding element (32, 34) having an external thread (78) corresponding to said internal thread (74), and / or - tapering at least in cross section in a direction towards the outside from said at least one second tool element (44); and / or b) defining a coding element receptacle longitudinal axis (76) extending parallel or substantially parallel to said pivot axis (52); 6. An implant system according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, in particular, the first tool element (42) has a thickness (92) in a direction parallel to the coding element receptacle longitudinal axis (76) and a length (94) of the coding elements (32, 34) corresponds at most to approximately the thickness (92) of the first tool element (42).

7. the coding element receptacle (70) having a viewing opening (80) facing away from the at least one second tool element (44) and an insertion opening (82) facing toward the at least one second tool element (44), the viewing opening (80) having a cross-sectional area smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the insertion opening (82); especially, a) the insertion opening (82) in the working position is at least partially, in particular completely, covered or closed by the at least one second tool element (44), and / or 7. The implant system according to claim 4, wherein the at least one coding element is disposed in a first position and the at least one coding element is disposed in a second position, the at least one coding element being disposed in a second position and the at least one coding element being disposed in a second position.

8. An implant system according to claim 5, wherein the at least one coding element is disposed in a second position and the at least one coding element is disposed in a second position.

8. the at least one coding element (32, 34) is fixed in the coding element receptacle (70) by material bonding to the first tool element (42) and / or by plastic deformation together with the first tool element (42); An implant system according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the at least one coding element (32, 34) is fixed in the coding element receptacle (70) by fracturing or destroying at least one thread of the male thread (78) and / or the female thread (74), in particular by laser welding.

9. 9. An implant system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that an end of the at least one coding element (32, 34) facing away from the at least one second tool element (44) is arranged or formed flush or substantially flush with a side (98) of the first tool element (42) facing away from the at least one second tool element (44).

10. a) the at least one coding element (32, 34) has a tool engagement element (88) oriented towards the at least one second tool element (44), in particular in the form of a slot (90), an internal polygonal socket or an internal multi-lobed socket, and / or 10. An implant system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that b) at least one coding element (32, 34) is arranged on said at least one second tool element (44) in a similar manner as on said first tool element (42).

11. 11. An implant system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one of the at least two instruments (12, 14) comprises at least two coding elements (32, 132), and at least one of the at least two coding elements (32, 132) is arranged or formed on the actuation device (50).

12. said actuating device (50) comprises two actuating elements (46, 48) which are movable, in particular pivotable, relative to one another, especially, a) said two working elements (46, 48) are configured in the form of rigid branches (36, 38), the distal end of each working element (46, 48) supporting or carrying a tool element (42, 44); and / or b) said two actuating elements (46, 48) are pivotable about said pivot axis (52); and / or c) an implant system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that one of the at least two coding elements (32, 132) is arranged or formed on at least one of the two actuating elements (46, 48), in particular on both actuating elements (46, 48).

13. the at least two instruments (12, 14) each include a biasing device (58) for exerting a biasing force that holds the actuator (50) in an extreme position; especially, a) the biasing device (58) comprises at least one biasing element (60, 62), and the two actuating elements (46, 48) are movable towards each other against the action of the at least one biasing element (60, 62); and / or 13. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein the instruments (12, 14) are capable of being moved from the working position to a processing position in which the first tool element (42) and the at least one second tool element (44) are moved relative to each other beyond one of the two extreme positions, and wherein the biasing device (58) is capable of being deactivated to transition the at least one medical instrument (12, 14) from the working position to the processing position.

14. a) the at least two instruments (12, 14) are configured in the form of a clip applier (20); and / or b) said at least two implants (16, 18) are configured in the form of surgical clips (22), in particular in the form of aneurysm clips (24); and / or c) said at least one coding element (32, 34) is made from a plastic material or from metal, and / or d) an implant system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the at least two implants (16, 18) are made from an implant material and the at least two corresponding coding elements (32, 34) are made from a coding element material, the implant material and the coding element material being identical.

15. a) the surfaces of the at least two implants (16, 18) and of the at least two coding elements (32, 34) are at least partially, in particular completely, colored or provided with a colored coating, and / or 15. An implant system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the at least one coding element (32, 34) is coloured via a coloured surface or has a coloured surface and the at least two implants (16, 18) are similarly colour coded.

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