Ultrasonic Surgical Handpiece Assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly including an irrigation sleeve and a surgical handpiece for use with an ultrasonic tip. The surgical handpiece includes a piezoelectric transducer disposed within a housing and configured to operate the ultrasonic tip. A flex circuit including one or more lumens and / or antennas is disposed within the surgical handpiece housing. The lumens are configured to provide irrigation and / or suction to the irrigation sleeve and / or the ultrasonic tip. The irrigation sleeve includes a second antenna configured to communicate with the ultrasonic handpiece antenna. The irrigation sleeve further includes alignment and / or coupling features configured to removably secure the irrigation sleeve to the housing and orient the second antenna relative to the ultrasonic handpiece antenna. The irrigation sleeve further includes a lumen for providing irrigation and / or suction to the ultrasonic tip. [Selection diagram] Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly.

[0002] [Related Applications] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 735,445, filed September 24, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to an ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly that includes a handpiece having a transducer and a horn configured to manipulate the horn to actuate a cutting tip coupled to the horn to cut or remove biological material.

[0004] In one exemplary configuration, a sleeve is provided for use with an ultrasonic handpiece that includes a coupling housing that includes a handpiece transceiver. The sleeve is configured to surround a portion of an ultrasonic tip that includes a cutting feature. The sleeve includes a hub. The hub includes a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a first lumen that extends through the hub. The proximal portion has a first surface configured to abut the ultrasonic handpiece and a second surface distal to the first surface. The sleeve further includes a tube body that includes a distal end and a proximal end. The tube body is configured to define a second lumen that extends from the distal portion of the hub and is in fluid communication with the first lumen of the hub. The second lumen is configured to surround a portion of the ultrasonic tip. The sleeve also includes a tube opening on an inner surface of the second lumen. The tube opening is disposed at a midpoint along the second lumen between the proximal and distal ends of the tube body and faces inwardly toward the second lumen. An irrigation conduit is adjacent to the second lumen. The irrigation conduit is configured to extend from a proximal end of the tube body to a tube opening. An irrigation opening and a tip opening are located on the first side, the tip opening configured to communicate with the first lumen. An irrigation fitting is disposed within the irrigation opening on the first side of the hub and is in fluid communication with the irrigation tube. The sleeve also includes at least one retention finger proximally projecting from the first side. The retention finger is configured to engage a coupling housing of an ultrasonic hand piece. The sleeve further includes a cavity defined in the proximal portion of the hub. The cavity includes an opening on the first side. A sleeve transceiver is disposed within the cavity and configured to communicate with a corresponding hand piece transceiver.

[0005] In another exemplary configuration, an ultrasonic surgical handpiece is configured for use with an ultrasonic tip assembly that includes a sleeve that includes at least one retaining member. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece includes a housing with a proximal end and an opposing distal end, the housing configured to define a volume. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece also includes a transducer disposed at least partially within the volume defined by the housing, and a horn having a first end and an opposing second end. The horn is configured to be disposed at least partially within the volume defined by the housing, the first end of the horn being operatively coupled to the transducer. The transducer is configured to vibrate / oscillate (in other words, to jiggle and / or oscillate) the horn upon operation. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece also includes a mounting region formed at the distal end of the housing. The mounting region defines a recess having a surface configured to receive the sleeve and a plurality of sidewalls. A mounting element is disposed on a surface of the recess. The attachment element is configured to receive at least one retaining member of the sleeve to removably couple the sleeve to the ultrasonic surgical handpiece. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece further includes a first attachment extending from a surface of the recess. The first attachment is configured to removably couple to the sleeve to provide irrigation to the sleeve. A second end of the horn is configured to protrude from the surface.

[0006] In yet another exemplary configuration, an ultrasonic handpiece assembly is configured for use with an elongated cutting instrument. The elongated cutting instrument includes an aspiration lumen extending the length thereof. The assembly includes an ultrasonic handpiece. The ultrasonic handpiece includes a housing having a proximal end and an opposite distal end. The housing defines a volume, the distal end having a distal face. The handpiece also includes a transducer configured to define a first conduit. The transducer is at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing. The handpiece also includes a horn having a first end and an opposite second end. The horn is configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing. The horn includes a second conduit within the horn configured to extend between the first and second ends of the horn. The horn also includes a threaded coupler at the second end. The threaded coupler extends from the distal end of the housing and is configured to removably couple the horn to the elongated cutting instrument. The assembly also includes an irrigation outlet fitting extending from the distal end of the housing. The irrigation outlet fitting is configured to expel irrigation fluid (e.g., irrigation liquid) from the housing. The assembly also includes an irrigation sleeve. The irrigation sleeve includes a hub. The hub defines a first lumen and includes an irrigation inlet fitting. The irrigation inlet fitting is configured to engage the irrigation outlet fitting to receive irrigation fluid expelled from the ultrasonic handpiece. The sleeve also includes a sleeve body extending distally from the hub. The sleeve body defines a second lumen configured to surround a portion of the elongated cutting instrument when the elongated cutting instrument is inserted into the irrigation sleeve. The sleeve further includes a tube opening on an inner surface of the second lumen. The tube opening is positioned toward the second lumen at a midpoint along the second lumen between the proximal and distal ends of the sleeve body for providing irrigation fluid to the surgical site and cooling the elongated cutting instrument. The sleeve also includes an irrigation conduit extending adjacent the second lumen.The irrigation conduit is configured to extend from the irrigation inlet fitting on the sleeve body to the tube opening to form a fluid passageway for communicating irrigation fluid to the elongated cutting instrument. The irrigation outlet fitting on the housing is configured to engage the irrigation inlet fitting on the irrigation sleeve when the irrigation sleeve is coupled to the housing to allow irrigation fluid to flow entirely through the ultrasonic handpiece and hub. Additionally, the first end of the horn is operably coupled to the transducer such that the first conduit of the transducer and the second conduit of the horn define a continuous passageway extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the housing.

[0007] In yet another exemplary configuration, an ultrasonic handpiece assembly is configured for use with an elongated cutting instrument. The assembly includes an ultrasonic handpiece including a housing, a transducer, and a horn. The housing includes a proximal end and an opposing distal end. The housing defines a volume, the distal end having a distal face. The transducer is configured to define a first conduit and is at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing. The horn includes a first end and an opposing second end and is configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing. The horn includes a second conduit within the horn configured to extend between the first and second ends of the horn. An irrigation outlet fitting extends from the distal end of the housing and is configured to expel irrigation fluid from the housing. A threaded coupler is disposed at the second end of the horn. The threaded coupler is configured to engage the elongated cutting instrument. A recess is disposed within the distal end of the housing. The recess includes a concave surface and a plurality of side walls configured to define an asymmetric shape. The assembly further includes a handpiece transceiver including a handpiece coil having a first axis. The handpiece transceiver is disposed within one of the plurality of side walls. The assembly also includes an irrigation sleeve. The irrigation sleeve includes a hub having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion is configured to define an asymmetric protrusion extending proximally from the distal portion and is dimensioned to be inserted within the recess of the housing. The irrigation sleeve also includes an abutment configured to contact a distal surface of the ultrasonic handpiece when the asymmetric protrusion is inserted within the recess of the housing. The asymmetric protrusion is configured to ensure proper alignment of the irrigation sleeve relative to the housing. The irrigation sleeve further includes a sleeve transceiver including a sleeve coil and a memory unit. The memory unit is for storing information regarding optimal drive parameters for the elongated cutting instrument. The sleeve coil has a second axis.The sleeve transceiver is disposed within a cavity defined in the asymmetric projection of the hub such that the second axis of the sleeve coil is oriented parallel to the first axis of the handpiece coil.

[0008] In yet another exemplary configuration, the tube connector is configured to integrally connect an irrigation line, an aspiration line, and a conductor to a proximal portion of an ultrasonic surgical handpiece. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece includes an irrigation fitting and an aspiration fitting extending proximally from the proximal portion of the handpiece. The tube connector includes a base having a distal end and a proximal end. The tube connector includes a first lumen within the base. The first lumen is configured to form a first fluid passage within the base extending from the distal end to the proximal end of the base. The first lumen is configured to receive the aspiration line near the proximal end of the base. The base defines a groove about a periphery of the base extending from a proximal region to a distal region of the base. The groove is configured to receive the conductor. A portion of the first lumen near the distal end of the base is configured to releasably couple to the aspiration fitting of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece via a friction fit. The tubing connectors are configured to reduce strain on the irrigation and aspiration lines when coupled to a surgical handpiece.

[0009] These and other configurations, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to or by these configurations, embodiments, features, and / or advantages.

[0010] Referring now to the drawings, exemplary configurations are shown in detail. While the drawings depict schematic embodiments, they are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate the innovative aspects of the exemplary embodiments. Moreover, the exemplary configurations described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limited or restricted to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings and disclosed in the following detailed description.

[0011] Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of an ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly including an ultrasonic handpiece, an irrigation sleeve, an ultrasonic tip, and a control console. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged (exaggerated) cross-sectional view of a rear housing portion of the ultrasonic handpiece of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective view of a front housing portion of the ultrasonic handpiece of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the front housing portion of FIG. 4. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of the ultrasonic handpiece of FIG. [Figure 8] 2 is a partial exploded view of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly of FIG. 1 showing an exemplary configuration of an interface between a front housing portion of the ultrasonic handpiece and an irrigation sleeve. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an enlarged (exaggerated) cross-sectional view of a front housing portion of an ultrasonic handpiece coupled to an irrigation sleeve. [Figure 10] 2 is a perspective view of the irrigation sleeve and ultrasonic tip of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly of FIG. 1 for use with an ultrasonic handpiece. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the irrigation sleeve and ultrasound tip of FIG. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the irrigation sleeve and ultrasound tip of FIG. [Figure 12]2 is a perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a tubing connector for use with the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly of FIG. 1, with the ultrasonic handpiece shown in phantom. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a first perspective view of the tube connector of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a second perspective view of the tube connector of FIG. 12. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a third perspective view of the tube connector of FIG. 12. [Figure 16] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the tube connector of FIG. 12 coupled to an ultrasound handpiece, including power, suction, and irrigation lines extending from the tube connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] As medical professionals strive to reduce the size of incisions and the recovery time required following invasive medical procedures, there has been a concomitant decrease in the size of medical instruments used in various medical procedures. Many of the medical instruments used in performing various medical procedures are cutting accessories, such as ultrasonic handpieces, high speed drills, rotary burrs, fenestrated shavers, and the like. Many of these cutting accessories may require the use of irrigation or aspiration (i.e., retraction) to reduce heat and / or remove debris at the surgical site. Similarly, irrigation may be used to lubricate the cutting accessory.

[0014] An example of a surgical instrument utilizing an irrigation system and an aspiration system is an ultrasonic handpiece. Typically, one or more lines are coupled to the ultrasonic handpiece to provide irrigation and aspiration. The ultrasonic handpiece further comprises a sleeve with one or more lumens utilized to direct fluid from an irrigation source to the surgical site and the cutting accessory, i.e., the ultrasonic tip. The irrigation and / or aspiration lines have typically been coupled to the exterior of the ultrasonic handpiece, which is coupled to the sleeve. The sleeve and / or cutting accessory are disposable. As a result, the sleeve and / or cutting accessory are only temporarily attached to the ultrasonic handpiece. The attachment of additional elements, such as irrigation and / or aspiration lines, to the exterior of the handpiece can increase the size, profile, and / or overall bulk of the ultrasonic handpiece. This can obstruct the medical professional's view and / or distract the medical professional during the manipulation of the medical instrument during a medical procedure. The placement of irrigation and / or aspiration lines relative to the ultrasonic handpiece may similarly affect the usability of the ultrasonic handpiece and may impede the medical professional's ability to operate the ultrasonic handpiece.

[0015] Therefore, to reduce the size of the handpiece and improve ease of use, an ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 may be configured with an ultrasonic handpiece 12 that includes an internal irrigation lumen and an internal aspiration lumen, such as the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 shown in Figures 1-3.

[0016] 1 and 2, an exemplary configuration of an ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 is shown. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 includes an ultrasonic handpiece 12 having a proximal end and a distal end. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 further includes a sleeve 18 and an ultrasonic tip 20 coupled to the distal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The sleeve 18 is configured to provide irrigation to the ultrasonic tip 20 and / or the surgical site. It is further contemplated that the sleeve 18 may be configured to provide suction to the ultrasonic tip 20. The ultrasonic tip 20 includes a cutting feature 34 configured to cut, shape, and / or remove living tissue.

[0017] The ultrasound tip 20 has various features as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,497,715, 6,955,680, and 6,984,220, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0018] The ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 also includes a cable 30 or other power cord. The cable 30 or other power cord includes a power connector 28 or power adapter configured to couple the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 to a power source, such as a control console 13. The control console 13 is configured to adjust various aspects of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. For example, the console 13 is configured to adjust the power and signals provided to the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The console 13 is also configured to adjust the irrigation and / or aspiration functions of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 to optimize the performance of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10.

[0019] Referring to Figure 3, a cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 of Figure 1 is shown. The ultrasonic handpiece 12 includes a proximal housing portion 14 and a distal housing portion 16, each of which is configured to define a space (cavity). The proximal housing portion 14 and the distal housing portion 16 are configured as two separate components and are coupled to one another by laser welding or a similar coupling procedure. Alternatively, the proximal housing portion 14 and the distal housing portion 16 may include corresponding coupling features configured to couple the proximal housing portion 14 and the distal housing portion 16 to one another. It is also contemplated that the proximal housing portion 14 and the distal housing portion 16 may be configured as a single, integral component.

[0020] A transducer 44 is disposed within the space defined by the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The transducer 44 includes a plurality of driver elements 46, e.g., a plurality of piezoelectric crystals, arranged in a stack. The piezoelectric crystals 46 expand and contract based on an applied change in electricity. The transducer 44 includes a tube 43 defining a lumen 45 extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the transducer 44 to provide a fluid passageway through the transducer 44. The tube 43 may be in the form of a rod. The tube 43 may extend through the collinear longitudinal axes of the plurality of driver elements 46. A proximal end weight 41 is disposed adjacent to a proximal face of the proximal-most driver element 46.

[0021] It is further contemplated that transducer 44 may alternatively be constructed including multiple magnetostrictive elements.

[0022] A horn 40 is disposed at least partially within the space defined by the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The horn 40 is coupled to a distal end of a transducer 44. The horn 40 may be constructed from a rigid steel alloy, titanium, or a similar material. In operation, the horn 40 vibrates (e.g., periodically) as the transducer 44 expands and contracts. The horn 40 is removably coupled to the transducer 44. For example, the proximal end of the horn 40 may include a male-threaded coupler and the distal end of the transducer 44 may include a corresponding female-threaded coupler. Alternatively, the transducer 44 and the horn 40 may be permanently coupled to one another via welding, adhesive, or a similar joining procedure. The horn 40 is configured to define a second conduit 42. The second conduit 42 is in fluid communication with a lumen 45 defined by a tube 43 of the transducer 44. The lumen 45 through the transducer 44 and the second conduit 42 through the horn 40 cooperate to form part of a continuous fluid pathway extending from the distal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 to the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 is configured such that a plurality of driver elements 46 are compressed between the proximal end weight 41 and the horn 40.

[0023] The fluid passageway through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 is utilized to provide irrigation fluid and / or vacuum into the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The distal end of the horn 40 further comprises a threaded coupler 38. The threaded coupler 38 is configured to removably couple the ultrasonic tip 20 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 via the horn 40. The threaded coupler 38 at the distal end of the horn 40 comprises threads configured to engage corresponding threads on the ultrasonic tip 20, although it is further contemplated that other connection methods may be utilized. For example, the distal end of the horn 40 may comprise features that allow for a snap fit with the ultrasonic tip 20.

[0024] The control console 13 of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 is configured to provide a drive signal to the cable 30 to which the ultrasonic handpiece 12 is connected. In many, but not all, embodiments of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10, the ultrasonic handpiece 12 and the cable 30 are assembled as a single unit. The drive signal is applied to the piezoelectric crystals 46. At any given moment, the same drive signal is applied to each of the piezoelectric crystals 46. Application of the drive signal causes the piezoelectric crystals 46 to simultaneously and cyclically expand and contract. The stack of piezoelectric crystals 46 often has a length of 1 cm to 5 cm. The distance traveled by the piezoelectric crystals 46 in one expansion and contraction cycle, i.e., the amplitude, is between 1 μm and 10 μm. The horn 40 is configured to amplify this motion. As a result, the distal end of the horn 40, and therefore the distal end of the ultrasonic tip 20, typically travels a distance of up to 1000 μm, and often no more than 500 μm, from a fully retracted position to a fully extended position. Some ultrasonic tips 20 are further designed such that longitudinal extension and contraction of the ultrasonic tip 20 also induces a torsional motion in the cutting feature 34. When the ultrasonic handpiece 12 is actuated to cause cyclic motion of the ultrasonic tip 20, the cutting feature 34 is considered to be vibrating.

[0025] The control console 13 includes a vacuum pump and controls, as well as an irrigation pump and controls. The vacuum pump is connected to the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 via aspiration line 27. The irrigation pump is connected to the ultrasonic handpiece assembly 10 via irrigation line 29.

[0026] The control console 13 may have any of the features described in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2017 / 0071621 and 2018 / 0056328, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0027] The ultrasonic hand piece 12 includes a tube 58 disposed at least partially within the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The tube 58 is configured to define a lumen 59 through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 for irrigation and / or aspiration. The tube 58 defines an additional lumen 59 through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 relative to the fluid passageway defined by the lumen 45 of the transducer 44 and the second conduit 42 of the horn 40. For example, the tube 58 defines an irrigation lumen 59 through the ultrasonic hand piece 12, and the lumen 45 through the transducer 44 and the second conduit 42 through the horn 40 define an aspiration lumen 45 through the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Alternatively, the tube 58 may define an aspiration passageway 59 through the ultrasonic hand piece 12, and the lumen 45 through the transducer 44 and the second conduit 42 through the horn 40 may define an irrigation passageway through the ultrasonic hand piece 12.

[0028] As previously mentioned, the irrigation and / or aspiration passageways are located largely within the ultrasonic handpiece 12 to provide the advantage of ease of use by eliminating one or more tubes that are typically attached to the exterior of the ultrasonic handpiece. Although a portion of the lines defining the aspiration and / or irrigation passageways from the proximal end of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 to the distal end of the passageways are exposed, i.e., visible to the user during use, it should be understood that the user does not need to attach any irrigation or aspiration lines to the side of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10 during use. Instead, in some embodiments, the irrigation line 29 and the aspiration line 27 are merely attached to the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 or to the rear surface of the proximal end. Additionally, in some embodiments, during setup of the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10, all of the aspiration and irrigation connections provided by the sleeve are directly associated with the ultrasonic handpiece 12. In other words, there is no need for any irrigation or aspiration lines to be connected to the side of the sleeve 18. Thus, the ultrasonic handpiece 12 includes connections for both irrigation and aspiration.

[0029] 4, a cross-sectional view of a portion of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 is shown. As previously mentioned, the transducer 44 has distal and proximal ends disposed within the space of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The transducer 44 is configured to extend and retract along a longitudinal axis of the transducer 44. A lumen 45 through the transducer 44 has distal and proximal portions. The horn 40 is also disposed at least partially within the ultrasonic handpiece 12.

[0030] The ultrasonic hand piece 12 further includes a barrier member 49 disposed within the space defined by the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The barrier member 49 is configured to define a cavity. The transducer 44 is encapsulated within the barrier member 49. That is, the barrier member 49 is configured to aid in mounting and isolating the transducer 44 within the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The barrier member 49 does not occupy the entirety of the space defined within the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Thus, the ultrasonic hand piece 12 further includes a potting element 47 or potting material disposed within the space defined by the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The potting element 47 is disposed outside the barrier member 49 within the space defined by the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Thus, the potting element 47 occupies or fills the portion of the space within the hand piece 12 that is not occupied or blocked by the barrier member 49. The potting element 47 is configured to fix the position of the barrier member 49 within the space defined by the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The potting element 47 also functions as an insulator or damper configured to prevent the transfer of thermal energy (i.e., heat) and mechanical energy (i.e., vibration) from the transducer 44 to the user's hand.

[0031] The barrier member 49 further defines a passageway 53 extending generally proximally from the proximal end of the barrier member 49. The passageway 53 forms a passageway between the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 and the tubing 43 (which defines the lumen 45 through the transducer 44). The passageway 53 further includes a coupling portion 54, such as a hose barb or similar fitting configured to provide a friction fit. The coupling portion 54 extends proximally from the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 and is configured to couple the passageway 53 to the aspiration line 27 of the control console 13.

[0032] The transducer 44 is partially mounted within the cavity defined by the barrier member 49 by a rear seal 48 disposed between the proximal end of the transducer 44 and the inner surface of the barrier member 49. The rear seal 48 is configured to abut (adjacent) the proximal end of the transducer 44 and defines a first opening in fluid communication with the lumen 45 through the transducer 44. The rear seal 48 is positioned to help prevent the ingress of moisture into the volume (cavity) surrounding the transducer 44 between the barrier member 49 and the exterior of the transducer 44. The rear seal 48 also functions to prevent the ingress of moisture between the exterior surface of the tube 43 and the inner surface of the transducer 44. The rear seal 48 is formed from an elastomeric material that is resistant to thermal and vibrational degradation, for example, a material that can withstand the temperatures of autoclaving.

[0033] The ultrasonic handpiece 12 further includes a front seal 52. The front seal 52 is radially disposed about the outer surface of the horn 40 to prevent the ingress of moisture between the inner surface of the distal housing portion 16 and the horn 40, because the outer surface of the horn 40 is exposed to liquids during operation of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The front seal 52 further includes a plurality of protrusions or ridges that are configured to facilitate engagement between the horn 40 and the distal housing portion 16 and to prevent the ingress of moisture into the space between the horn 40 and the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12.

[0034] The ultrasonic hand piece 12 further includes a potting seal 50. The potting seal 50 is positioned between and engages the distal end of the barrier member 49 and the proximal end of the horn 40. The potting seal 50 is also configured to contact an inner surface of the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 adjacent the barrier member 49 and the proximal end of the horn 40. The potting seal 50 is further configured to abut the distal end of the barrier member 49 and also defines a second opening for receiving the interlocking feature of the horn 40. The potting seal 50 is configured to prevent the potting element 47 from entering the barrier member 49 and contacting the transducer 44 during the potting process. Once in place, the potting element 47 functions in conjunction with the potting seal 50 to prevent the ingress of moisture between the barrier member 49 and the horn 40.

[0035] 5 and 6, an exemplary configuration of the distal housing portion 16 is shown. The distal housing portion 16 includes a coupling feature 60. The coupling feature 60 is configured to removably couple the distal housing portion 16 to a distal portion of a barrier member 49 disposed within the proximal housing portion 14. The coupling feature 60 includes a pair of tabs configured to snap-fit ​​and / or friction-fit with corresponding coupling features of the barrier member 49. However, alternative coupling features such as hooks or protrusions are also contemplated. The coupling feature 60 facilitates attachment and / or positioning of the barrier member 49 within the space defined by the distal housing portion 16 and the proximal housing portion 14.

[0036] The distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 further comprises a flex circuit 62 molded therein. The flex circuit 62 is constructed from a conductive material configured to transmit electrical signals between a distal region and a proximal region of the flex circuit 62. The flex circuit 62 comprises an attachment portion 64 disposed at a proximal region of the flex circuit 62. The attachment portion 64 is configured to couple to a processor disposed within the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The processor is configured to communicate with the control console 13. Alternatively, the attachment portion 64 of the flex circuit 62 may be configured to couple to a wire, cable, or similar conductor that is coupled to the control console 13 via the cable 30. The processor or wire is configured to transmit electrical signals between the flex circuit 62 and the control console 13 that control the power, irrigation, and / or aspiration functions of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The flex circuit 62 also comprises a transceiver 66 located at a distal region of the flex circuit 62. As described below, the position of the transceiver 66 within the ultrasonic handpiece 12 should be closely controlled to ensure that the corresponding coil in the sleeve 18 is always read when the sleeve 18 is coupled to the ultrasonic handpiece 12.

[0037] Also shown in FIG. 5 is a tube 58 defining the aforementioned lumen 59 disposed at least partially within the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The tube 58 is at least partially disposed within the distal housing portion 16 and the proximal housing portion 14. The tube 58 further includes a coupling feature 56, such as a hose barb or similar fitting configured to provide a friction fit. The coupling feature 56 is disposed at a proximal end of the tube 58 and configured to couple the tube 58 to an irrigation line 29 extending from the control console 13 to the ultrasonic surgical handpiece assembly 10. The irrigation line 29 extending from the console 13 is coupled to the ultrasonic handpiece 12 via the hose barb 56 to facilitate flow of irrigation fluid through the tube 58 within the ultrasonic handpiece 12 toward the sleeve 18 and / or ultrasonic tip 20. In the above configuration, irrigation fluid flows through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 from the proximal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 to the distal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 or to the sleeve 18, thereby eliminating the need for bulky irrigation lines coupled to the side of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 or to the side of the sleeve 18. This configuration is made possible by routing the irrigation lines through the hand piece 12. Thus, neither the sleeve nor the ultrasonic hand piece has irrigation connections along their sides. Alternatively, in other configurations, the tube 58 may be coupled to the aspiration line 27 via the coupling feature 56. In this case, the aspiration line 27 may be used to draw a vacuum through the tube 58. The tube 58 may be in communication with the sleeve 18 and / or the ultrasonic tip 20 to remove biological material and / or fluids from the surgical site.

[0038] 6, an exploded view of the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 is shown. The distal housing portion 16 includes a first half 68 and a second half 70 configured to be coupled together to form a portion of the distal housing portion 16. The first half 68 and the second half 70 are each injection molded from an injection moldable plastic or similar lightweight durable material. Additionally, the first half 68 and the second half 70 are molded such that a groove 74 (forming a passageway) or recess is formed in the distal housing portion 16 when the first half 68 and the second half 70 are coupled together. It is also contemplated that the groove 74 may be formed in only one of the first half 68 or the second half 70. The groove 74 is configured to receive at least a portion of the flex circuit 62. The groove 74 further includes a cavity 72 located at a distal end of the groove 74. The cavity 72 is configured to receive the transceiver 66 located at a distal region of the flex circuit 62. The cavity 72 has a larger dimension than the groove 74 to accommodate the size of the transceiver 66 relative to the flex circuit 62. The cavity 72 and the groove 74 are adjacent to one another. Although the cavity 72 is shown to be located near the distal end of the distal housing portion 16, it is also contemplated that the first and second halves 68, 70 may be configured such that the flex circuit 62 and the transceiver 66 are located in alternative locations. For example, the cavity 72 may be located near the proximal end of the distal housing portion 16. In yet other configurations, the first and second halves 68, 70 may be configured to be split along a horizontal axis such that the first half 68 is located above the second half 70 rather than being located along a vertical axis. In this configuration, the groove 74 and cavity 72 are formed in the contact surfaces (interfaces) of the first and second halves 68, 70, and the flex circuit 62 and transceiver 66 may be located on the right or left side of the distal housing portion 16.

[0039] The location of the cavity 72 should be closely controlled to enable communication between the transceiver 66 and the RFID tag 88 on the sleeve 18 (see FIG. 8). For example, the cavity 72 may be positioned within the distal housing portion 16 to reduce the distance between the transceiver 66 and the corresponding RFID tag 88 on the sleeve 18 when the sleeve 18 and the ultrasonic handpiece 12 are coupled together. The cavity 72 is positioned to ensure that the plane defined by the transceiver 66 is positioned substantially parallel to the plane defined by the RFID tag 88 on the sleeve 18.

[0040] As previously mentioned, the flex circuit 62 includes a transceiver 66 located at the distal end of the flex circuit 62. The transceiver 66 includes an antenna. The antenna is configured to transmit a signal to a corresponding RFID tag associated with the sleeve 18 and receive a response. The flex circuit 62 is at least partially disposed within a groove 74 in the distal housing portion 16 when the first half 68 and the second half 70 are coupled together. The flex circuit 62 is typically formed as a ribbon slice (thin strip) with internal copper elements such as traces. Due to this configuration and structure, the flex circuit 62 is fragile or easily damaged. This makes it difficult to work with or install the flex circuit within the distal housing portion 16. For example, the flex circuit must be handled so as not to be crushed or broken. Also, care should be taken to avoid actions that may cause multiple layers of the flex circuit 62 to peel off. Thus, the groove 74 formed in the distal housing portion 16 should be positioned to avoid sharp bends or kinks and extend smoothly along its length. During the assembly process, the flex circuit 62 may be placed in the groove 74 and the transceiver 66 may be placed in the cavity 72 prior to the first and second halves 68, 70 of the distal housing portion 16 being coupled together, thereby fixing the position of the transceiver 66 within the distal housing portion 16. It should be appreciated that the transducer does not necessarily need to be located at the distal end of the flex circuit.

[0041] Once the first and second halves 68, 70 of the distal housing portion 16 are mechanically mated together such that the position of the transceiver 66 is fixed, the distal housing portion 16 is overmolded with an autoclavable plastic to form the finished configuration of the distal housing portion 16 shown in FIG. 5. By overmolding the flex circuit 62 and transceiver 66 with an autoclavable plastic within the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12, the flex circuit 62 is protected from heat damage that occurs during the autoclave process utilized to sterilize the ultrasonic handpiece 12. Additionally, the use of an autoclavable plastic rather than a plastic having a melting point below 150° C. allows the distal housing portion 16 to be repeatedly processed through an autoclave sterilization process without significant degradation. Thus, by placing the flex circuit 62 within the grooves 74 of the first and second halves 68, 70 prior to overmolding with the autoclavable plastic, the flex circuit 62 is sufficiently insulated by the first and second halves 68, 70 from the thermal energy of the molten autoclavable plastic such that the flex circuit 62 will not delaminate during the overmolding process. The result of the above process is shown in the apparatus of Figures 5 and 8. Autoclavable plastic should be understood to be a polymer having a melting point above 150°C.

[0042] Although the process of positioning the flex circuit 62 has been described with respect to the two halves 68, 70 of the distal housing portion 16, it should be appreciated that a similar process may be used with any suitable medical device housing where precise positioning of a portion of the flex circuit 62 is important, for example, a medical device housing that does not include two separate halves.

[0043] Although not shown, the ultrasonic handpiece 12 also includes a memory that contains data describing the characteristics of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The memory may take the form of an EPROM, EEPROM, or may be included in the RFID tag 88 described above. In addition to containing readable data, the memory may store data that is written to the memory after manufacture of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. To facilitate reading and writing data from and to the memory, auxiliary components, not shown, are attached to the handpiece. These auxiliary components may include one or more of the following elements: conductors, exposed contacts / contact pins, coils / antennas, or isolation circuits.

[0044] 7-9, exemplary configurations of interfaces between the distal housing portion 16 and the sleeve 18 and / or ultrasonic tip 20 are shown. FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration of the distal end of the distal housing portion 16 described above. The distal end of the distal housing portion 16 may also be referred to as the distal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The distal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 includes an attachment region 69 configured to function as an interface between the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and the sleeve 18 and ultrasonic tip 20. The attachment region 69 includes a recess 71 defined by a proximal surface 78 and a distal surface 79. The proximal surface 78 and the distal surface 79 are connected to one another by a plurality of walls 77 extending perpendicularly to the proximal surface 78 and the distal surface 79. The proximal surface 78 includes an opening 73. The opening 73 includes an interlocking feature 75 around its periphery (see FIG. 9). The interlocking feature 75 may include a tab, lip, or similar snap-fit ​​interlocking mechanism.

[0045] The distal end of the horn 40 is configured to extend partially through an opening 73 defined in the proximal surface 78. The horn 40 and at least a portion of the threaded coupler 38 are disposed within a recess 71 in the distal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. A second conduit 42 that extends through the horn 40 similarly opens into the recess 71.

[0046] The proximal face 78 further comprises an irrigation coupler 76 located at a distal end of the tube 58 that defines a lumen 59 through the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The irrigation coupler 76 comprises a fitting, hose barb, or similar connection member for connecting the distal end of the tube 58 to a corresponding irrigation line 29 of the sleeve 18. The irrigation coupler 76 is configured to be in fluid communication with the lumen 59 disposed within the ultrasonic handpiece 12 for providing irrigation fluid to the sleeve 18. The irrigation coupler 76 functions as an inlet or outlet for transferring materials and / or fluids between the ultrasonic handpiece 12 and the sleeve 18.

[0047] 8, a partial exploded view of the interface between the distal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and the sleeve 18 is shown. The sleeve 18 includes a hub 21 located at the proximal end of the sleeve 18 and a sleeve body 19 extending distally from the hub 21. The sleeve 18 includes a lumen 98 defined by the hub 21 and the sleeve body 19. The lumen 98 extends the length of the sleeve 18 and is configured to surround at least a portion of the ultrasonic tip 20 when the ultrasonic tip 20 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The hub 21 includes a protrusion 80. The protrusion 80 extends proximally from a distal face 84 of the hub 21 and terminates at a proximal face 82. The proximal face 82 of the protrusion 80 is oriented to be generally parallel to the distal face 84. The shape of the protrusion 80 is defined by a number of circumferential surfaces 81 or wall members extending between the distal face 84 and the proximal face 82. The outer perimeter surface 81 or wall member is configured to define the perimeter of the projection 80. The outer perimeter surface 81 is oriented generally perpendicular to the proximal surface 82 and / or the distal surface 84. It should be appreciated that the shape of the projection 80 is positioned to provide a close fit within the recess 71 such that the outer perimeter surface 81 of the projection 80 engages the wall 77 of the recess 71.

[0048] However, although not shown, it is further contemplated that the outer periphery 81 of the protrusion 80 may be oriented at an angle other than 90° relative to the proximal face 82 and / or the distal face 84 to form a tapered protrusion 80. For example, the area defined by the outer periphery 81 of the protrusion 80 proximal to the distal face 84 may be greater than the area of ​​the proximal face 82.

[0049] The hub 21 further includes a fitting 94 extending from the proximal surface 82 of the projection 80. The fitting 94 is configured to couple to a corresponding fitting 76 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The fitting 94 of the sleeve 18 and the corresponding fitting 76 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 are configured to facilitate the transfer of fluid between the sleeve 18 and the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Specifically, the fitting 76 is sized to fit within the fitting 94 when the sleeve 18 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. For example, irrigation fluid from the ultrasonic hand piece 12 flows to the sleeve 18 by the connection of the fitting 94 to the fitting 76. This eliminates the need to connect the sleeve to an irrigation line separate from the ultrasonic hand piece 12, for example, an irrigation line connected to the side of the sleeve 18. Alternatively, a vacuum may be applied to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 configured to aspirate material from the sleeve 18 through the fittings 94, 76 coupled by an alternative configuration.

[0050] The sleeve 18 further includes a conduit 96 formed within the sleeve body 19 to extend adjacent the lumen 98 of the sleeve 18. The fitting 94 is coupled to a proximal end of the conduit 96. The conduit 96 is configured to direct irrigation fluid through the sleeve 18 separate from the lumen 98 of the sleeve 18. The path of the conduit 96 through the sleeve 18 may be formed in a variety of ways.

[0051] The hub 21 further includes a cavity 86 formed in the projection 80. The cavity 86 includes an opening in the proximal surface 82 of the projection 80. The cavity 86 is configured to at least partially enclose a tag 88, an antenna, a transceiver, or a similar wireless communication device. The tag 88, an antenna, a transceiver, or a similar wireless communication device is configured to communicate with the transceiver 66 disposed in the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. For example, the tag 88 may include an RFID tag 88 inserted and / or disposed within the cavity 86. Although the figures show the cavity 86 and the RFID tag 88 disposed generally near the proximal end of the sleeve 18, it should be understood that the cavity 86 and the RFID tag 88 may be disposed in other locations on or within the sleeve 18. For example, the RFID tag 88 may be disposed on one of the other circumferential surfaces 81A, 81B, or 81D of the projection 80. Alternatively, the cavity 86 and the RFID tag 88 may be disposed within the distal surface 84 of the hub 21. The RFID tag 88 comprises a memory unit that stores data and / or information related to one or more properties or characteristics associated with the sleeve 18 and the ultrasonic tip 20. For example, the RFID tag 88 may include information identifying the type of cutting feature 34 disposed at the distal end of the ultrasonic tip 20. The RFID tag 88 may also include information identifying the type of sleeve 18. This information is communicated to the ultrasonic handpiece 12 and subsequently to the console 13, which allows the console 13 to modify power settings, irrigation settings, suction settings, and / or other settings intended to optimize the efficiency of the cutting feature 34 of the ultrasonic tip 20. This may include control parameters that are not specific to power to the ultrasonic handpiece 12, such as compatibility settings. The RFID tag 88 may be used to prevent customers from reusing the ultrasonic tip 20 and / or sleeve 18 as part of a sterilization standard or procedure. For example, the ultrasound tip 20 and sleeve 18 may be configured as single-use components that are not intended to be sterilized or reused. RFID tag 88 also includes a coil 89.The shapes of the protrusion 80 and the recess 71 are adjusted so that the plane defined by the coil 89 of the RFID tag 88 is approximately parallel to the plane defined by the transceiver 66 .

[0052] The RFID tag 88 in the sleeve 18 should be understood as a chip memory. The ultrasonic tip 20 and the sleeve 18 are typically packaged together in a kit. The data contained in the RFID tag 88 is used to control the operation of the ultrasonic tip 20. The coil 89 embedded in the sleeve 18 is coupled to the memory unit of the RFID tag 88. As mentioned above, the RFID tag 88 is used to prevent customers from reusing the ultrasonic tip 20 and / or the sleeve 18. In combination with the memory unit, the RFID tag 88 is further configured to track and / or measure the number of uses of the chip and to limit the number of uses of the chip. For example, the RFID tag 88 is configured to store in the memory unit the number and / or time that the ultrasonic tip 20 and the sleeve 18 have been activated. The RFID tag 88 and the memory unit are configured to prevent activation of the chip after a prescribed number of uses. The prescribed number of uses may be provided based on the wear and effectiveness of the ultrasonic tip 20 and / or the sleeve 18 to prevent or predict failure.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 9, the tag 88 is secured within the cavity 86 by a pin 89. The pin 89 is formed from a plastic or alloy material and configured to frictionally fit within the opening of the cavity 86 to secure the RFID tag 88 within the cavity 86 and protect the RFID tag 88 from damage. Alternatively, the pin 89 may include a seal such as an elastomeric O-ring. In yet other configurations, the pin 89 may include an epoxy, glue, sealant, or similar compound configured to secure the tag 88 within the cavity 86 and protect the tag from damage. It is further contemplated that the RFID tag 88 may be injection molded or heat staked into the sleeve 18. The RFID may be other types of tags.

[0054] The protrusion 80 is configured to have a shape complementary to a shape defined by the recess 71 at the distal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and is configured to be disposed within the recess 71 when the sleeve 18 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Furthermore, the respective shapes of the recess 71 and the protrusion 80 are configured to align the sleeve 18 with respect to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and prevent rotational movement of the sleeve 18 with respect to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the recess 71 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 includes a number of walls 77 that define a perimeter of the recess 71. In the exemplary configuration of the recess 71 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the walls 77A, 77B, 77C, and 77D define a doghouse-like shape, with two opposing walls 77A and 77B being generally parallel to one another. The two opposing walls 77A and 77B are connected to one another by a third wall 77C that is generally perpendicular to the walls 77A and 77B. A fourth wall 77D opposite the third wall 77C also connects the two opposing walls 77A, 77B to one another, but the fourth wall 77D has a generally arcuate shape. Meanwhile, the plurality of circumferential surfaces 81A, 81B, 81C, 81D defining the periphery of the projection 80 are configured to define a dog-house shape corresponding to the shape of the recess 71. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that the walls 77A, 77B, 77C, 77D of the recess 71 and the corresponding circumferential surfaces 81A, 81B, 81C, 81D of the projection 80 may be configured to define alternative shapes. For example, the walls 77 and the circumferential surfaces 81 may define a rectangle, a star, an oval, a triangle, or other similar shape. While the projection 80 and recess 71 are shown to have complementary shapes, it is further contemplated that they may have slightly different shapes, so long as the projection 80 is disposed within the recess 71. For example, the protrusion 80 of the sleeve 18 may be configured to provide several additional outer circumferential surfaces 81 to the protrusion by providing a chamfer between the outer circumferential surfaces 81C and 81A and / or 81B, and such a sleeve 18 would still be inserted into and function in the ultrasonic handpiece 12 in the same manner.

[0055] The shape of the projection 80 and the recess 71 is further configured to orient the tag 88 disposed within the cavity 86 of the hub 21 relative to the transceiver 66 disposed within the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. By utilizing the shape of the projection 80 and the recess 71 to orient the tag 88 relative to the transceiver 66, reliable communication between the tag 88 and the transceiver 66 can be improved. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the tag 88 and the transceiver 66 are positioned to at least partially overlap in the axial direction when the sleeve 18 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Furthermore, the cavity 86 of the hub 21 and the cavity 72 of the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 are oriented such that the first major axis of the tag 88 and the second major axis of the transceiver 66 are substantially parallel to each other. The protrusion 80 and distal housing portion 16 are further configured to shorten the distance between the cavity 86 of the hub 21 and the cavity 72 of the distal housing portion 16 to further improve communication between the tag 88 and the transceiver 66.

[0056] The hub 21 further comprises a plurality of retaining fingers 90 extending distally from the proximal surface 82 of the projection 80. The plurality of retaining fingers 90 are spaced apart from one another around a lumen 98 defined in the proximal surface 82. The plurality of retaining fingers 90 further comprise tabs 92, ridges, or protrusions configured to engage with the coupling feature 75 around the opening 73 in the proximal surface 78 of the recess 71 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The tabs 92 of each of the plurality of retaining fingers 90 engage with the coupling feature 75 of the recess 71 to form a snap fit and / or friction fit that removably couples the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The plurality of retaining fingers 92 are comprised of a highly compliant material (highly flexible material) such as silicone rubber, or a metallic material such as a leaf spring. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that the sleeve 18 may be coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 by some other method. For example, the hub 21 may be configured without the retention fingers 90, and the irrigation coupler 76 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 may mate with the irrigation fitting 94 of the sleeve 18 to provide the primary retention mechanism. In yet another embodiment, the protrusion 80 may be comprised of a compliant material, the protrusion 80 may include an RFID tag 88 disposed within a slit in the compliant material, and the protrusion 80 may be an interference fit within the cavity 71.

[0057] 9, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary configuration of an interface between the distal housing portion 16 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and the sleeve 18 and ultrasonic tip 20 is shown. As shown in FIG. 9, when the sleeve 18 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12, the distal surface 79 of the distal housing portion 16 abuts (adjacent) the distal surface 84 of the protrusion 80. This helps to form a stable connection of the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Similarly, when the protrusion 80 is placed in the recess 71 to couple the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12, the proximal surface 78 of the distal housing portion 16 abuts (adjacent) the proximal surface 82 of the protrusion 80. However, when the distal surface 79 of the distal housing portion 16 abuts the distal surface 84 of the protrusion 80, there may be a gap between the proximal surface 78 of the distal housing portion 16 and the proximal surface 82 of the protrusion 80.

[0058] In operation, a method of coupling the sleeve 18 to an ultrasonic handpiece 12 includes providing the ultrasonic handpiece 12 as previously described. The ultrasonic handpiece 12 includes an irrigation tube 58 configured to communicate irrigation fluid through the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The ultrasonic handpiece 12 also includes a mounting portion 69 located near a distal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. The mounting portion 69 includes the recess 71 as previously described. The recess 71 is defined by a plurality of sidewalls 77 configured to define a space, for example an asymmetric space. The mounting region 69 also includes an aperture or similar mounting element.

[0059] The method of coupling a sleeve 18 to an ultrasonic handpiece 12 further includes providing the sleeve 18 as described above. The sleeve 18 comprises a hub 21 having a proximal face 82 and a distal face 84. The proximal face 82 is configured to define an asymmetric protrusion 80 extending proximally from the distal face 84, optionally comprising one or more retention fingers 90. The protrusion 80 is dimensioned to be inserted within the recess 71 of the ultrasonic handpiece 12.

[0060] The method of coupling the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 further includes coupling the ultrasonic hand piece 12 to the sleeve 18 by inserting the asymmetric projection 80 into the asymmetric space defined by the mounting portion 69 and engaging one or more retention fingers 90 around the opening in the distal housing portion 16 to provide an interference fit of the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece. Once the asymmetric projection 80 is inserted into the asymmetric space defined by the mounting portion 69, the irrigation coupler 76 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 is mated with the irrigation fitting 94 of the sleeve 18, thereby forming an irrigation passageway between the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and the sleeve 18 without separately connecting irrigation lines to the irrigation sleeve 18. Thus, irrigation and aspiration lines are coupled to the sleeve and the sleeve is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece in a single step, i.e., by inserting the projection of the sleeve into the recess of the ultrasonic hand piece.

[0061] The method of coupling the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 further includes the step of providing the ultrasonic tip 20 described above. The ultrasonic tip 20 includes a threaded coupler 104 at a distal end of the ultrasonic tip 20 configured to removably secure the ultrasonic tip 20 to a threaded coupler 38 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The ultrasonic tip 20 further includes a cutting feature 34 at the distal end of the ultrasonic tip 20. The method further includes coupling the ultrasonic tip 20 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 prior to the step of coupling the ultrasonic tip 20 to the irrigation sleeve 18.

[0062] The method of coupling the sleeve 18 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 further includes inserting the irrigation coupler 76 at the distal end of the irrigation conduit or tube 58 of the ultrasonic hand piece 12 into a corresponding irrigation fitting 94 of the irrigation sleeve 18 when the asymmetric protrusion 80 is inserted into the asymmetric space defined in the attachment region 69. The irrigation fitting 94 is in fluid communication with the conduit 96 of the sleeve 18 and is configured to supply irrigation fluid to the ultrasonic tip 20.

[0063] 10, 11A, and 11B, an exemplary configuration of an ultrasonic tip 20 disposed within a sleeve 18 is shown. Referring to FIG. 11B, a cross-sectional view of an ultrasonic tip 20 disposed within a sleeve 18 is shown. As previously described, the sleeve 18 includes a conduit 96 formed in the sleeve body 19 and extending adjacent to a lumen 98 of the sleeve 18. The distal end of the conduit 96 terminates in an opening 108 or nozzle located on an inner surface of the lumen 98. The opening 108 is configured to direct fluid radially inward toward the center of the lumen 98. The fluid is then delivered to an outer surface of the ultrasonic tip 20 and / or directed toward the distal end of the sleeve 18. The fluid flows out of the lumen 98 and is delivered to the surgical site.

[0064] The sleeve 18 further includes a seal 100, such as an O-ring, disposed within the lumen 98. The seal 100 is configured to contact a portion of the ultrasonic tip 20 when the sleeve 18 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 and the ultrasonic tip 20 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The seal 100 is configured to provide a fluid seal between an inner surface of the lumen 98 and an outer surface of the ultrasonic tip 20. For example, the seal 100 is configured to prevent fluid between an inner surface of the lumen 98 and an outer surface of the ultrasonic tip 20 distal to the seal 100 from flowing proximal to the seal 100.

[0065] The ultrasonic tip 20 has a distal end and a proximal end. The ultrasonic tip 20 has a cutting feature 34 located at its distal end and a coupling feature 104 located at its proximal end. The coupling feature 104 is configured to engage the threaded coupler 38 of the horn 40 to removably couple the ultrasonic tip 20 to the ultrasonic handpiece 12. It should be understood that the coupling feature 104 of the ultrasonic tip 20 should be configured to engage the threaded coupler 38 of the horn 40. Thus, if a coupling mechanism other than complementary threads is used, the respective coupling features 104, 38 of the ultrasonic tip 20 and horn 40 may be adapted to engage with one another.

[0066] The ultrasonic tip 20 is configured to define a lumen 102 extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the ultrasonic tip 20. The lumen 102 is configured to be in fluid communication with a fluid passageway through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 defined by the conduit 42 of the horn 40 and the lumen 45 of the transducer 44 when the ultrasonic tip 20 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. The lumen 102 may be configured to provide irrigation and / or aspiration to a surgical site based on a system coupled to the fluid passageway through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 defined by the conduit 42 of the horn 40 and the lumen 45 of the transducer 44. For example, if an irrigation system is coupled to the fluid passageway through the ultrasonic hand piece 12 defined by the conduit 42 of the horn 40 and the lumen 45 of the transducer 44, the lumen 102 is configured to provide irrigation fluid to a surgical site near the cutting feature 34. Alternatively, if an aspiration system is connected to the fluid passageway through the ultrasonic handpiece 12 defined by the conduit 42 of the horn 40 and the lumen 45 of the transducer 44, the lumen 102 is configured to evacuate fluid and / or material from the surgical site near the cutting feature 34.

[0067] The ultrasonic tip 20 also includes an opening 106 configured to be in fluid communication with the lumen 102. The opening 106 is disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the ultrasonic tip 20 such that the opening 106 is distal to the seal 100 of the sleeve 18 when the ultrasonic tip 20 is disposed within the lumen 98 of the sleeve 18. Additionally, the opening 106 is disposed about the ultrasonic tip 20 such that the opening 106 is surrounded by the sleeve 18 when the ultrasonic tip 20 is disposed within the lumen 98 of the sleeve 18. For example, the opening 106 is disposed about the ultrasonic tip 20 such that the opening 106 is proximal to the distal end of the sleeve 18 when the ultrasonic tip 20 is disposed within the lumen 98 of the sleeve 18.

[0068] The ultrasonic tip 20 further comprises a resonator 105 disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the ultrasonic tip 20. The resonator 105 is configured to convert longitudinal vibrations transmitted from the transducer 44 to the ultrasonic tip 20 through the mechanical connection formed by the horn 40 into longitudinal and torsional motions of the ultrasonic tip 20 at the distal side of the resonator 105. For example, when the transducer 44 expands and contracts, vibrations are generated, and the vibrations are transmitted to the ultrasonic tip 20 through the horn 40. Thus, the portion of the ultrasonic tip 20 proximal to the resonator 105 undergoes longitudinal motion. Here, the resonator 105 converts the longitudinal motions of the transducer 44 and the horn 40 into longitudinal and torsional motions of the portion of the ultrasonic tip 20 distal to the resonator 105. The resonator 105 comprises a non-uniform cross-sectional area formed by a plurality of grooves on the outer surface of the ultrasonic tip 20. The grooves are oriented to provide a generally spiral, helical form on the exterior surface of the ultrasonic tip 20. This is accomplished by cutting grooves in a spiral or helical pattern into the exterior surface of the ultrasonic tip 20. Alternatively, the spiral or helical pattern of grooves may be achieved by cutting straight grooves into the exterior surface of the ultrasonic tip 20. In this case, the grooves are generally parallel to the long axis of the ultrasonic tip 20, and then twisting the ultrasonic tip 20 results in grooves having a spiral or helical pattern.

[0069] 12-16, an exemplary configuration of a tubing connector 22 for use with ultrasonic hand piece 12 as part of ultrasonic surgical hand piece assembly 10 is shown. Tube connector 22 includes a base 24 having a distal end and a proximal end. Base 24 is constructed from a rigid material, such as plastic. Alternatively, base 24 may be constructed from a soft or elastic material, such as an elastomer.

[0070] The base 24 is configured to define one or two lumens 112, 114 extending therethrough. The lumens 112, 114 define a fluid passageway through the base 24 of the tube connector 22 and are configured to be in fluid communication with one or more conduits or lumens through the ultrasonic hand piece 12. For example, the first lumen 112 is configured to be in fluid communication with the passageway formed by the conduit 42 of the horn 40 and the lumen 45 of the transducer 44 when the tube connector 22 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Additionally, the second lumen 114 is configured to be in fluid communication with the lumen 59 disposed within the ultrasonic hand piece 12 when the tube connector 22 is coupled to the ultrasonic hand piece 12.

[0071] The base 24 also defines a groove 110 around the periphery of the base 24. The groove 110 extends between the distal and proximal ends of the base 24. The groove 110 is configured to receive a cable 30, wiring harness, or similar conductor extending proximally from the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12. For example, the groove 110 of the tube connector is configured to receive and partially surround the cable 30, as shown in FIG. 1. The groove 110 may be shaped and / or dimensioned to removably couple the base 24 of the tube connector 22 to the cable 30 via a friction or interference fit. For example, the groove 110 may have a U-shape or crescent shape, with the width of the opening of the groove 110 at the surface of the base 24 being less than the maximum width of the cable 30.

[0072] The tube connector 22 further includes a resilient member 26 extending proximally from the base 24. The resilient member 26 is configured to receive the suction line 27. The resilient member 26 and the base 24 are formed as a unitary component, with the resilient member 26 defining a portion of a lumen 112 through the base 24. The resilient member 26 is configured such that the suction line 27 is inserted into the lumen 112 at a proximal end of the resilient member 26. The suction line 27 is adapted to be friction-fit within the lumen of the resilient member. Alternatively, the suction line 27 may be coupled to the resilient member 26 using glue, epoxy, or a similar adhesive configured to provide a chemical bond.

[0073] Although not shown, it is also contemplated that the resilient member 26 may be removably coupled to the base 24. For example, the distal end of the resilient member 26 may be configured to create friction against the base 24 when inserted into the lumen 112.

[0074] While the figures show the suction line 27 and / or irrigation line 29 being inserted directly into the lumens 112, 114 defined in the base 24 of the tube connector 22, it is further contemplated that the suction line 27 and / or irrigation line 29 may be coupled to the base 24 by a hose barb or similar fitting. For example, a proximal end of a hose barb may be inserted into an opening in the suction line 27 and / or irrigation line 29 and then the proximal end of the hose barb may be inserted into the respective lumens 112, 114 defined in the base 24. The hose barbs may be coupled to the base 24 by a friction fit into the lumens 112, 114 or may be coupled to the base 24 by an epoxy, glue, sealant, or similar adhesive.

[0075] The base 24 is configured to be removably coupled to the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12 via an interference fit. The interference fit is formed between the connection feature 56 of the irrigation tubing 58 and the connection portion 54 of the passageway 53 and the respective lumens 112, 114. For example, the connection feature 56 and the connection portion 54 may each include a hose barb or similar fitting configured to be inserted into the corresponding lumens 112, 114, thereby providing a friction fit that removably secures the tube connector 22 to the proximal end of the ultrasonic handpiece 12.

[0076] Alternatively, although not shown, it is contemplated that the distal end of the base 24 may include a retention feature, such as a tab or finger, configured to provide a snap fit with the proximal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. For example, the retention feature may include a tab or protrusion that circumscribes the distal end of the base 24 and is configured to engage the proximal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12, thereby releasably coupling the tube connector 22 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 via a snap fit.

[0077] The tube connector 22 serves as a means for quickly attaching and detaching both the irrigation line 29 and the aspiration line 27 to the proximal end of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Additionally, the tube connector 22 removably secures the irrigation line 29 and / or the aspiration line 27 to the ultrasonic hand piece 12 while reducing stress on the irrigation line 29 and / or the aspiration line 27 in the vicinity of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. Additionally, the tube connector 22 reduces bending and / or kinking of the lines in the vicinity of the ultrasonic hand piece 12. For example, the resilient member comprises a resilient material configured to support the aspiration line 27 and / or inhibit bending or kinking of the aspiration line 27. Additionally, the proximal offset provided by the resilient member extending proximally from the base 24 offsets the points at which the aspiration line 27 and the irrigation line 29 are coupled to the base 24 from one another. This prevents kinking of the lines when the proximal end of the tube connector 22 is leaned over. This helps support the lines 27,29 while limiting bending of the lines 27,29 in the vicinity of the ultrasonic handpiece 12, thereby reducing sharp bends in the lines 27,29 that could restrict flow therethrough.

[0078] [Clause i] A method for assembling an ultrasonic surgical handpiece to a tip sleeve without a separate irrigation connection, comprising: a housing including an irrigation conduit configured to communicate irrigation fluid into the ultrasonic surgical handpiece and a mounting area in the form of a recess in a distal end of the housing; The irrigation sleeve comprises a hub having a proximal portion and a distal portion; the proximal portion defines a projection extending proximally from the distal portion, the projection being dimensioned for insertion into a recess in the housing; The method comprises: Providing the housing; Providing the irrigation sleeve; and connecting the housing to the irrigation sleeve without separately connecting an irrigation line to the irrigation sleeve by inserting the protrusion into the recess to supply irrigation fluid to the irrigation sleeve; The method includes:

[0079] [Clause ii] 1. A sleeve for use with an ultrasonic handpiece having a coupling housing with a handpiece transceiver, the sleeve being configured to encircle a portion of an ultrasonic tip having a cutting feature, the sleeve comprising: a hub having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a first lumen extending therethrough; a tube body having a distal end and a proximal end, the tube body configured to extend from a distal portion of the hub and define a second lumen in fluid communication with the first lumen of the hub, the second lumen configured to surround a portion of the ultrasound tip; a tube opening on an inner surface of the second lumen, the tube opening being disposed at a midpoint along the second lumen between the proximal and distal ends of the tube body and facing inwardly toward the second lumen; an irrigation conduit adjacent the second lumen, the irrigation conduit configured to extend from a proximal end of the tube body to the tube opening; an irrigation opening and a tip opening on a first surface, the tip opening configured to communicate with the first lumen; an irrigation fitting disposed within the irrigation opening on the first side of the hub and in fluid communication with the irrigation tube; a cavity defined in a proximal portion of the hub, the cavity having an opening in a first surface; a sleeve transceiver disposed within the cavity and configured to communicate with a corresponding handpiece transceiver; A sleeve comprising:

[0080] [Clause iii] 1. An ultrasonic handpiece assembly for use with an elongated cutting instrument / element, comprising: an ultrasonic handpiece; and an irrigation sleeve; The ultrasonic handpiece comprises: a housing having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the housing defining a volume, the distal end having a distal surface; a transducer configured to define a first conduit, the transducer being at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a horn having a first end and an opposite second end, the horn configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a second conduit within the horn configured to extend between the first end and the second end of the horn; an irrigation outlet fitting extending from the distal end of the housing and configured to exhaust irrigation fluid (e.g., irrigation liquid) from the housing; a coupler at the second end of the horn configured to engage an elongated cutting instrument; and a recess in a distal end of the housing; a handpiece transceiver including a handpiece coil; Equipped with The irrigation sleeve comprises: a hub having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion configured to define a protrusion dimensioned to be inserted into the recess of the housing; an abutment configured to contact a distal surface of the ultrasonic handpiece when the protrusion is inserted into the recess of the housing; a sleeve transceiver comprising a sleeve coil and a memory unit, the memory unit adapted to store information regarding optimal drive parameters for an elongated cutting instrument; Equipped with the sleeve transceiver is disposed within a cavity defined in the hub such that a second axis of the sleeve coil is aligned with the handpiece coil. Ultrasonic handpiece assembly.

[0081] [Clause iv] 1. A method of making a surgical handpiece comprising a flex circuit having an antenna, the method comprising: the inner flex circuit having an antenna at a distal end of the inner flex circuit; the first and second housing components are injection molded such that one of the first and second housing components defines a space and such that one of the first and second housing components includes an irrigation conduit configured to communicate irrigation fluid into a surgical handpiece; The method comprises: providing said inner flex circuit; Providing the first housing component and the second housing component; disposing the internal flex circuit within the space of one of the first housing component and the second housing component; fastening the first housing component to the second housing component to secure the internal flex circuit in place; and fixing the position of the antenna on the internal flex circuit within the first and second housing components by overmolding the first housing component, the second housing component, and a portion of the internal flex circuit with an autoclavable plastic; The method includes:

[0082] [Clause v] The method of clause iv, further comprising an initial step of injection molding the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0083] [Clause vi] The method of claim 5, wherein the first housing component and the second housing component are injection molded to include corresponding passages extending longitudinally along a length of each of the first and second components, the corresponding passages defining the space when the first housing component and the second housing component are secured to one another.

[0084] [Clause vii] The method of claim vi, wherein the step of positioning the internal flex circuit within the space includes inserting a portion of the internal flex circuit within the passage of the first housing component or the second housing component prior to securing the first housing component to the second housing component.

[0085] [Clause viii] The method of any one of clauses iv-vii, further comprising coupling a proximal end of the flex circuit to a processor, the processor configured to communicate with the antenna at a distal end of the flex circuit.

[0086] [Article ix] 1. A method of making a surgical handpiece comprising a flex circuit having an antenna, the method comprising: the first and second housing components are injection molded such that one of the first and second housing components defines a space and such that one of the first and second housing components includes an irrigation conduit configured to communicate irrigation fluid to a surgical handpiece; The method comprises: Providing an inner flex circuit having a sensor; Providing the first housing component and the second housing component; disposing the internal flex circuit within the space of one of the first housing component and the second housing component; fastening the first housing component to the second housing component to secure the internal flex circuit in place; and fixing the position of the sensor on the internal flex circuit within the first and second housing components by overmolding the first housing component, the second housing component, and a portion of the internal flex circuit with an autoclavable plastic; The method includes:

[0087] Several embodiments have been discussed above. However, the embodiments discussed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to any particular form. For example, while the surgical instrument is described as an ultrasonic handpiece in the exemplary configuration, it is further contemplated that the features and concepts described with respect to the ultrasonic handpiece may be applied to other medical or surgical instruments. This is equally true for the ultrasonic tip 20, which may further comprise a blade, drill bit, rotary burr, fenestrated shaver, etc. The terminology that has been used is intended to be words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, and the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. The claims as originally filed were as follows: [Claim 1] 1. A sleeve for use with an ultrasonic handpiece having a coupling housing with a handpiece transceiver, the sleeve being configured to encircle a portion of an ultrasonic tip having a cutting feature, the sleeve comprising: a hub having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a first lumen extending therethrough, the proximal portion having a first surface configured to abut the ultrasonic handpiece and a second surface distal to the first surface; a tube body having a distal end and a proximal end, the tube body configured to extend from a distal portion of the hub and define a second lumen in fluid communication with the first lumen of the hub, the second lumen configured to surround the portion of the ultrasound tip; a tube opening on an inner surface of the second lumen, the tube opening being disposed at a midpoint along the second lumen between the proximal and distal ends of the tube body and facing inwardly toward the second lumen; an irrigation conduit adjacent the second lumen, the irrigation conduit configured to extend from a proximal end of the tube body to the tube opening; an irrigation opening and a tip opening on the first surface, the tip opening configured to communicate with the first lumen; an irrigation fitting disposed within the irrigation opening on the first side of the hub and in fluid communication with the irrigation conduit; at least one retention finger protruding proximally from the first surface, the retention finger configured to engage the connection housing of the ultrasonic handpiece; a cavity defined in a proximal portion of the hub, the cavity having an opening in the first surface; a sleeve transceiver disposed within the cavity and configured to communicate with a corresponding handpiece transceiver; A sleeve comprising: [Claim 2] The sleeve of claim 1 , wherein the proximal portion comprises an asymmetric shape and is configured to be inserted into the connecting housing of the ultrasonic handpiece. [Claim 3] The proximal portion comprises: a first wall and a third wall oriented parallel to one another; a second wall extending between the first wall and the third wall, the second wall being oriented substantially perpendicular to the first wall and the third wall; a fourth wall extending between the first wall and the third wall opposite the second wall, the fourth wall having a generally arcuate shape; Equipped with The sleeve of claim 2 , wherein the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall define the asymmetric shape of the proximal portion. [Claim 4] 4. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein the first surface and the second surface are oriented in the same direction. [Claim 5] 5. The sleeve according to claim 1, wherein the first surface and the second surface are oriented parallel to each other. [Claim 6] The sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the irrigation fitting defines a third lumen configured to receive a corresponding barb of the ultrasonic handpiece to supply irrigation fluid to the sleeve. [Claim 7] The sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a seal disposed within the opening of the cavity, the seal configured to secure the sleeve transceiver within the cavity. [Claim 8] A sleeve as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sleeve transceiver has a first axis, and the sleeve transceiver is positioned within the cavity such that the first axis is approximately perpendicular to a second axis defined by the first surface. [Claim 9] A sleeve as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the sleeve transceiver further comprises a memory, the memory configured to store data relating to one or more characteristics associated with the ultrasound tip. [Claim 10] 1. An ultrasonic surgical handpiece for use with an ultrasonic tip assembly comprising a sleeve having at least one retaining member, a housing having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the housing configured to define a volume; a transducer disposed at least partially within the volume defined by the housing; and a horn having a first end and an opposing second end, the horn configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing, the first end of the horn operably coupled to the transducer, the transducer configured to vibrate / oscillate the horn upon operation; a mounting area formed at a distal end of the housing, the mounting area defining a recess having a surface and a plurality of side walls configured to receive the sleeve; an attachment element on the surface of the recess, the attachment element configured to receive the at least one retaining member of the sleeve to releasably couple the sleeve to the ultrasonic surgical handpiece; and a first fitting extending from the face of the recess and configured to removably couple to the sleeve to provide irrigation to the sleeve; Equipped with The second end of the horn is configured to protrude from the face. Ultrasonic surgical handpiece. [Claim 11] the plurality of side walls include a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall extending from a periphery of the face; the first wall and the third wall are disposed substantially parallel to each other, the second wall and the fourth wall are disposed substantially parallel to one another and configured to extend between opposed ends of the first wall and the third wall. 11. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 10. [Claim 12] 12. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 11, wherein the fourth wall has a generally hemispherical shape and extends between the first wall and the third wall opposite the second wall. [Claim 13] the second wall further comprises a cavity configured to embed a handpiece transceiver within the second wall, the handpiece transceiver comprising a shaft; the handpiece transceiver is disposed within the cavity such that the axis is parallel to an inner surface of the second wall. 13. An ultrasonic surgical handpiece according to claim 11 or claim 12. [Claim 14] 14. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 10, wherein the first fitting is a male fitting configured to be received by a corresponding female fitting on the sleeve. [Claim 15] 15. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 10, wherein the attachment element includes an opening in the surface, the opening configured to provide a friction fit with a tab of the at least one retaining member of the sleeve. [Claim 16] 1. An ultrasonic handpiece assembly for use with an elongated cutting instrument, the elongated cutting instrument including an aspiration lumen extending the length thereof, the ultrasonic handpiece assembly comprising: an ultrasonic handpiece and an irrigation sleeve; The ultrasonic handpiece comprises: a housing having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the housing defining a volume, the distal end having a distal surface; a transducer configured to define a first conduit, the transducer being at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a horn having a first end and an opposite second end, the horn configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a second conduit within the horn configured to extend between the first end and the second end of the horn; a threaded coupler at the second end of the horn extending from a distal end of the housing and configured to removably couple the horn to the elongated cutting instrument; an irrigation outlet fitting extending from a distal end of the housing and configured to expel irrigation fluid from the housing; Equipped with The irrigation sleeve comprises: a hub defining a first lumen and including an irrigation inlet fitting configured to engage the irrigation outlet fitting to receive irrigation fluid discharged from the ultrasonic handpiece; a sleeve body extending distally from the hub, the sleeve body defining a second lumen configured to surround a portion of the elongated cutting instrument when the elongated cutting instrument is inserted into the irrigation sleeve; a tube opening on an interior surface of the second lumen, the tube opening being positioned to face the second lumen at a midpoint along the second lumen between the proximal and distal ends of the sleeve body for supplying irrigation fluid to a surgical site and cooling the elongated cutting instrument; an irrigation conduit extending adjacent to the second lumen, the irrigation conduit configured to extend from the irrigation inlet fitting of the sleeve body to the tube opening to form a fluid passageway for communicating irrigation fluid to the elongated cutting instrument; Equipped with the irrigation outlet fitting of the housing is configured to engage the irrigation inlet fitting of the irrigation sleeve when the irrigation sleeve is coupled to the housing to allow irrigation fluid to flow completely through the ultrasonic handpiece and the hub; the first end of the horn is operably coupled to the transducer such that the first conduit of the transducer and the second conduit of the horn define a continuous passageway extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the housing. Ultrasonic handpiece assembly. [Claim 17] 17. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 16, wherein the ultrasonic handpiece further comprises an irrigation inlet fitting located at a proximal end of the housing and configured to receive irrigation fluid from an irrigation source. [Claim 18] 18. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the continuous passageway extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the housing is in fluid communication with the suction lumen of the elongated cutting instrument, and the threaded coupler is configured to removably couple the horn to the elongated cutting instrument to enable removal of resected tissue through the suction lumen when a vacuum is applied to the continuous passageway. [Claim 19] The hub includes: a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion having a first surface configured to abut the ultrasonic handpiece and a second surface located distal to the first surface; at least one retention finger protruding proximally from the first surface, the retention finger configured to engage the housing of the ultrasonic handpiece; a cavity defined in a proximal portion of the hub, the cavity having an opening in a first surface; a sleeve transceiver disposed within the cavity and configured to communicate with a corresponding handpiece transceiver; 19. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly according to claim 16, further comprising: [Claim 20] The housing includes: an attachment area formed within a distal end of the housing, the attachment area defining a recess having a third surface and a plurality of side walls configured to receive the hub of the irrigation sleeve; an attachment element located within the third surface of the recess, the attachment element configured to receive the retention fingers of the irrigation sleeve to releasably couple the irrigation sleeve to the ultrasonic handpiece; Further comprising: the irrigation outlet fitting extends from the third side of the recess and is configured to removably couple to the irrigation sleeve and provide irrigation fluid to the irrigation sleeve; The second end of the horn is configured to protrude from the face. 20. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 19. [Claim 21] 21. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 16, wherein the irrigation sleeve further comprises a seal disposed within the second lumen, the seal configured to abut against an inner surface of the second lumen to space the elongated cutting instrument from the inner surface of the second lumen. [Claim 22] 1. An ultrasonic handpiece assembly for use with an elongated cutting instrument, comprising: an ultrasonic handpiece and an irrigation sleeve; The ultrasonic handpiece comprises: a housing having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the housing defining a volume, the distal end comprising a distal surface; a transducer configured to define a first conduit, the transducer being at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a horn having a first end and an opposite second end, the horn configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a second conduit within the horn configured to extend between the first end and the second end of the horn; an irrigation outlet fitting extending from a distal end of the housing and configured to expel irrigation fluid from the housing; a threaded coupler at the second end of the horn configured to engage the elongated cutting instrument; and a recess in a distal end of the housing, the recess comprising a concave surface and a plurality of side walls configured to define an asymmetric shape; a handpiece transceiver including a handpiece coil having a first axis, the handpiece transceiver being disposed within one of the side walls; Equipped with The irrigation sleeve comprises: a hub having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion configured to define an asymmetric projection extending proximally from the distal portion, the asymmetric projection dimensioned for insertion into the recess of the housing; an abutment configured to contact the distal surface of the ultrasonic hand piece when the asymmetric protrusion is inserted into the recess of the housing, the abutment configured to ensure proper alignment of the irrigation sleeve relative to the housing; a sleeve transceiver comprising a sleeve coil and a memory unit for storing information regarding optimal drive parameters for the elongated cutting instrument, the sleeve coil having a second axis; Equipped with the sleeve transceiver is disposed within a cavity defined within the asymmetric projection of the hub such that a second axis of the sleeve coil is oriented parallel to the first axis of the handpiece coil. Ultrasonic handpiece assembly. [Claim 23] The irrigation sleeve comprises: a sleeve body extending distally from a distal portion of the hub, the sleeve body defining a second lumen configured to surround a portion of the elongated cutting instrument when the elongated cutting instrument is inserted within the irrigation sleeve; a tube opening on an interior surface of the second lumen, the tube opening being positioned to face the second lumen at a midpoint along the second lumen between the proximal and distal ends of the sleeve body for supplying irrigation fluid to a surgical site and cooling the elongated cutting instrument; 23. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 22, further comprising: [Claim 24] 24. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 23, wherein the irrigation sleeve further comprises a seal disposed within the second lumen, the seal configured to abut an inner surface of the second lumen to space the elongated cutting instrument from the irrigation sleeve. [Claim 25] the asymmetric projection further comprises at least one retention finger projecting proximally from the asymmetric projection; 25. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 24, wherein the at least one retaining finger and the seal cooperate to ensure that the irrigation sleeve is properly spaced from the elongated cutting instrument when the ultrasonic handpiece is coupled to the irrigation sleeve. [Claim 26] 26. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly of claim 22, further comprising an elongated cutting instrument having a second threaded coupler at a proximal end and a distal end defining a cutting surface, the second threaded coupler of the elongated cutting instrument configured to be removably coupled to the threaded coupler of the horn. [Claim 27] 1. A method for assembling an ultrasonic surgical handpiece to a distal sleeve without a separate irrigation connection, comprising: a housing including an irrigation conduit configured to communicate irrigation fluid into the ultrasonic surgical handpiece and a mounting area at a distal end of the housing; the attachment region comprising a concave surface and a plurality of side walls configured to define an asymmetric space; and an attachment element within the attachment region; The irrigation sleeve comprises a hub having a proximal portion and a distal portion; the proximal portion includes one or more retention fingers and is configured to define an asymmetrical projection extending proximally from the distal portion, the asymmetrical projection being dimensioned for insertion into a recess in the housing; The method comprises: Providing the housing; Providing the irrigation sleeve; connecting the housing to the irrigation sleeve without separately connecting an irrigation line to the irrigation sleeve by inserting the asymmetric protrusion into the asymmetric space and engaging the one or more fingers with the attachment element, thereby providing irrigation fluid to the irrigation sleeve; The method includes: [Claim 28] Providing a cutting tip; coupling the cutting tip to the housing prior to coupling the housing to the irrigation sleeve; Further comprising: 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the cutting tip comprises a threaded coupler at a distal end configured to removably secure the cutting tip to the housing and a cutting element at a proximal end. [Claim 29] the step of coupling the housing to the irrigation sleeve further includes inserting a first irrigation fitting at a distal end of the irrigation conduit of the housing into a corresponding second irrigation fitting of the irrigation sleeve when the asymmetric protrusion is inserted into the asymmetric space; 29. The method of claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the second irrigation fitting is in fluid communication with a second conduit of the sleeve configured to supply irrigation fluid to the cutting tip. [Claim 30] 1. A tubing connector for integrally connecting irrigation lines, suction lines, and conductors to a proximal portion of an ultrasonic surgical handpiece, the handpiece including irrigation and suction fittings extending proximally from a proximal portion of the handpiece, the tubing connector comprising: a base having a distal end and a proximal end; a first lumen in the base configured to form a first fluid passageway in the base extending from a distal end to a proximal end of the base, the first lumen configured to receive the aspiration line near the proximal end of the base; Equipped with the base defines a groove about a periphery of the base extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the base, the groove being configured to receive the conductor; a portion of the first lumen near a distal end of the base configured to removably couple to the suction fitting of the handpiece via a friction fit; the tube connector is configured to reduce strain on the irrigation line and the aspiration line when coupled to the handpiece; Tube connector. [Claim 31] the base further comprises a second lumen configured to define a second fluid passageway within the base extending from the distal end to the proximal end of the base, the second lumen configured to receive the irrigation line near the proximal end of the base; 31. The tube connector of claim 30, wherein a portion of the second lumen near a distal end of the base is configured to removably couple to the irrigation fitting of the handpiece via a friction fit. [Claim 32] the base further comprises a resilient member extending proximally from a proximal end of the base, the resilient member configured to define a portion of the first lumen; 32. The tube connector of claim 31, wherein the elastic member is configured to extend proximally from the base to proximally offset a location of the suction line connection to the first lumen relative to a location of the irrigation line connection to the second lumen. [Claim 33] 32. The tube connector of claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the base further comprises a resilient member extending proximally from a proximal end of the base, the resilient member configured to define a portion of the first lumen. [Claim 34] the base further comprises a resilient member extending proximally from a proximal end of the base, the resilient member configured to define a portion of the first lumen; 32. A tube connector as claimed in claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the resilient member is constructed from a resilient material configured to support the suction line when coupled to the tube connector. [Claim 35] 1. A tubing connector for integrally connecting an irrigation line, an aspiration line, and a conductor to a proximal portion of an ultrasonic surgical handpiece, comprising: a base having a proximal region and a distal region, the base being constructed from a resilient material; a first lumen through the base extending from a proximal end to a distal end and configured to form a first fluid passageway to a proximal portion of the surgical handpiece, the first lumen including a first coupler near the proximal end of the base configured to receive the irrigation line; a second lumen through the base extending from a proximal end to a distal end and configured to form a second fluid passageway to a proximal portion of the surgical handpiece, the second lumen including a second coupler near the proximal end of the base configured to receive the aspiration line; Equipped with the base defines a groove about an outer periphery of the base extending between a proximal region and a distal region of the base, the groove being configured to receive the conductor; the tubing connector is configured to reduce strain on the aspiration line and the irrigation line when connected to the surgical handpiece; Tube connector. [Claim 36] 36. The tube connector of claim 35, wherein the base further comprises a resilient member extending proximally from a proximal region of the base, the resilient member configured to define a portion of the first lumen. [Claim 37] 1. An ultrasonic surgical handpiece comprising: a housing defining a cavity, the housing defining a proximal opening and a distal opening; a transducer disposed within the cavity of the housing, the transducer having a distal end and a distal tip, the transducer configured to expand and contract along a longitudinal axis of the transducer; a tube defining a transducer lumen having a distal portion and a proximal portion, the lumen configured to extend from a proximal end to a distal end of the transducer and to be oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis; a barrier member having a shell portion disposed entirely within the cavity and a passage portion extending proximally from the shell portion through the proximal opening, the shell portion defining a shell lumen configured to surround the transducer located within the housing, the passage portion configured to direct aspirated fluid from the transducer lumen to an aspiration line; a horn at least partially disposed within the housing, the horn coupled to a distal end of the transducer and defining a horn lumen in fluid communication with the transducer lumen when coupled to the transducer; a rear seal disposed between a proximal end of the transducer and an inner surface of the cavity, the rear seal configured to abut the proximal end of the transducer, the rear seal defining a first opening that engages an outer surface of the tube and an inner surface of the barrier member, the rear seal being disposed between the shell portion of the barrier member and the passage portion such that fluid cannot enter the shell portion of the barrier member; a front seal disposed radially on an outer surface of the horn; a potting seal disposed between the transducer and a distal end of the shell portion of the barrier member, the potting seal defining a second opening for receiving an interlocking feature of the horn and configured to abut the distal end of the transducer; Equipped with the rear seal is configured to prevent moisture ingress into the cavity near a proximal end of the transducer; the potting seal is configured to prevent moisture ingress into the cavity near the distal end of the transducer. Ultrasonic surgical handpiece. [Claim 38] 38. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 37, wherein the front seal comprises a plurality of ridges configured to prevent ingress of moisture into the cavity between the horn and the housing. [Claim 39] 39. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the potting seal is configured to prevent ingress of potting material into the cavity. [Claim 40] 40. The ultrasonic surgical handpiece of claim 37, wherein the rear seal and the potting seal are configured to include an elastic material configured to support the transducer within the cavity as the transducer expands and contracts.

Claims

1. 1. A sleeve (18) for use with an ultrasonic handpiece (12) having a connecting housing (16) with a handpiece transceiver (66), the sleeve (18) being configured to surround a portion of an ultrasonic tip (20) having a cutting feature (34), a hub (21), the hub (21) comprising a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a first lumen (98) extending therethrough, the proximal portion having a first surface (82) and a second surface (84) located distally from the first surface (82), the proximal portion defining a protrusion (80) extending proximally from the second surface (84) to the first surface (82), the protrusion (80) configured to be inserted into a recess (71) in a distal end of the connection housing (16) of the ultrasonic handpiece (12) such that the second surface (84) abuts the connection housing (16); a tube body (19) having a distal end and a proximal end, the tube body (19) configured to extend from a distal portion of the hub (21) and define a second lumen (98) in fluid communication with the first lumen (98) of the hub (21), the second lumen (98) configured to surround the portion of the ultrasound tip (20); a tube opening (108) on an inner surface of the second lumen (98), the tube opening (108) being disposed to face inwardly toward the second lumen (98) at a midpoint along the second lumen (98) between the proximal and distal ends of the tube body (19); an irrigation conduit (96) adjacent the second lumen (98), the irrigation conduit (96) configured to extend from a proximal end of the tube body (19) to the tube opening (108); an irrigation opening and a tip opening in the first surface (82), the tip opening configured to communicate with the first lumen (98); an irrigation fitting (94) disposed within the irrigation opening in the first surface (82) of the hub (21) and in fluid communication with the irrigation conduit (96); at least one retention finger (90) protruding proximally from the first surface (82), the retention finger (90) configured to engage the connection housing (16) of the ultrasonic handpiece (12); a cavity (86) defined in a proximal portion of the hub (21), the cavity (86) having an opening on one face of the hub (21); a sleeve transceiver (88) disposed within the cavity (86) and configured to communicate with the corresponding handpiece transceiver (66); The sleeve (18).

2. A sleeve (18) as described in claim 1, wherein the protrusion (80) and the recess (71) have complementary shapes to each other so as to prevent rotational movement of the sleeve (18) relative to the ultrasonic handpiece (12) when the protrusion (80) is inserted into the recess (71).

3. The proximal portion comprises: a first wall (81A) and a third wall (81B) oriented parallel to one another and each extending distally from the first surface (82); a second wall (81C) extending between the first wall (81A) and the third wall (81B) and extending distally from the first surface (82), the second wall (81C) being oriented perpendicular to the first wall (81A) and the third wall (81B); a fourth wall (81D) extending between the first wall (81A) and the third wall (81B), facing the second wall (81C), and extending distally from the first surface (82), the fourth wall (81D) having an arched shape; Equipped with 3. The sleeve (18) of claim 2, wherein the first wall (81A), the second wall (81C), the third wall (81B), and the fourth wall (81D) define the protrusion (80) of the proximal portion.

4. The sleeve (18) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first surface (82) and the second surface (84) face in the same direction.

5. The sleeve (18) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first surface (82) and the second surface (84) are oriented parallel to one another.

6. The sleeve (18) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the irrigation fitting (94) defines a third lumen configured to receive a corresponding barb (76) of the ultrasonic handpiece (12) to supply irrigation fluid to the sleeve (18).

7. The sleeve (18) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sleeve transceiver (88) comprises a coil, and the sleeve transceiver (88) is positioned within the cavity (86) such that an axis of the coil is perpendicular to the first surface (82).

8. The sleeve (18) of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sleeve transceiver (88) further comprises a memory, the memory configured to store data relating to one or more characteristics associated with the ultrasound tip (20).

9. An ultrasonic handpiece assembly (10) for use with an elongated cutting instrument (20), comprising: An ultrasonic handpiece (12) and the sleeve (18) according to claim 2 or claim 3, The ultrasonic handpiece (12) comprises: a housing having a proximal end and an opposite distal end and defining a volume; a transducer (44) configured to define a first conduit, the transducer (44) being at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a horn (40) having a first end and an opposite second end, the horn (40) configured to be at least partially disposed within the volume defined by the housing; a second conduit (42) within the horn (40) configured to extend between the first end and the second end of the horn (40); an irrigation outlet fitting (76) extending from a distal end of the housing and configured to expel irrigation fluid from the housing; a threaded coupler (38) at the second end of the horn (40) configured to engage the elongated cutting instrument (20); a recess (71) in a distal end of the housing, the recess (71) having a concave surface and a plurality of side walls configured to define a shape of the recess (71); a handpiece transceiver (66) including a handpiece coil having a first axis, the handpiece transceiver (66) being disposed within one of the side walls; Equipped with the sleeve transceiver (88) comprises a sleeve coil (89) and a memory unit for storing information regarding optimal drive parameters for the elongated cutting instrument (20), the sleeve coil (89) having a second axis; the sleeve transceiver (88) is disposed within the cavity (86) defined in the projection (80) of the hub (21) such that the second axis of the sleeve coil (89) is oriented parallel to the first axis of the handpiece coil when the projection (80) is inserted into the recess (71) of the housing. An ultrasonic handpiece assembly (10).

10. 10. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly (10) of claim 9, wherein the sleeve (18) further comprises a seal disposed within the first lumen (98), the seal configured to abut an inner surface of the first lumen (98) to space the elongated cutting instrument (20) from the sleeve (18).

11. An ultrasonic handpiece assembly (10) as described in claim 10, wherein the at least one retaining finger (90) and the seal cooperate to ensure that the sleeve (18) is properly spaced from the elongated cutting instrument (20) when the ultrasonic handpiece (12) is coupled to the sleeve (18).

12. The ultrasonic handpiece assembly (10) of any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising an elongated cutting instrument (20) having a second threaded coupler (104) at a proximal end and a distal end defining a cutting surface (34), the second threaded coupler (104) of the elongated cutting instrument (20) configured to be removably coupled to the threaded coupler (38) of the horn (40).

13. A method for assembling an ultrasonic surgical handpiece (12) to a distal sleeve (18) without a separate irrigation connection, comprising: a housing including an irrigation conduit configured to communicate irrigation fluid into the ultrasonic surgical handpiece (12) and a mounting area at a distal end of the housing; the mounting region comprising a concave surface (78) and a plurality of side walls (77A, 77B, 77C, 77D) configured to define a recess (71) in a distal end of the housing, and a mounting element (75); The method comprises: Providing the housing; Providing the sleeve (18) according to claim 2 or 3; coupling the housing to the sleeve (18) by inserting the projection (80) into the recess (71), engaging the at least one finger (90) with the attachment element (75), and inserting an irrigation fitting at a distal end of the irrigation conduit of the housing into the irrigation fitting (94) of the sleeve (18); A method comprising:

14. Providing a cutting instrument (20); coupling the cutting tool (20) to the housing prior to coupling the housing to the sleeve (18); Further comprising:

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the cutting instrument (20) comprises a threaded coupler (104) at a proximal end configured to removably secure the cutting instrument (20) to the housing and a cutting element (34) at a distal end.

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