Telescoping smoke evacuation device for use with handheld surgical instruments - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld surgical instrument is disclosed, the smoke evacuation device including an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site, and attachment means for attaching the tubular body to the handheld surgical instrument.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 072,331, filed October 16, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention is directed to surgical instruments, and more particularly to a retractable smoke evacuation device configured for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument. [Background technology]

[0003] In medical settings, handheld electrosurgical devices, such as the BOVIE® pencil, are typically used to cut tissue during surgical procedures. Using a handheld electrosurgical device, such as the BOVIE® pencil, to cut tissue typically generates surgical smoke as energy is applied to tissue cells during surgery. The heat from the energy vaporizes intracellular fluids, which increases intracellular pressure and ultimately ruptures cell membranes. When this occurs, a plume of smoke containing primarily water vapor is released into the operating room. Simultaneously, the heat carbonizes proteins and other organic matter within the cells, releasing carbonized cell fragments and contaminants such as gaseous hydrocarbons.

[0004] These small particles and gases are potentially dangerous if inhaled. If surgical smoke is not evacuated from the surgical site closest to where it is generated, it can become airborne and be inhaled. This led to the development and use of smoke evacuation systems during surgery. Smoke evacuation systems are essentially vacuum pumps with one or more filters designed to remove surgical smoke and aerosols from the surgical site and remove contaminants. In addition, they can return filtered air to the operating room.

[0005] In view of the increasing demand and desire for surgical exhaust systems in operating rooms, the inventors have determined that it would be advantageous to develop a telescoping smoke evacuation device that can be easily attached to a handheld electrosurgical instrument to capture smoke generated at a surgical site and that can be easily extended and retracted relative to the electrocautery blade / end effector to allow for improved suction at the site where smoke is generated, while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when within a tight surgical pocket and the ability to adapt to the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention is directed to a new and useful smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld surgical instrument, the smoke evacuation device including an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site, and distal attachment means for attaching the distal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the distal end portion of a handheld surgical instrument. Preferably, the distal attachment means is adapted and configured to maintain a predetermined ergonomic distance between the tubular body and the handheld surgical instrument.

[0007] In one embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment means comprises an adhesive strap, a hook and loop type fastener strap, or a cable tie strap. In another embodiment of the invention, the means comprises a spring-loaded compression clamp having a conforming contact surface. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment means comprises a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having conforming contact surfaces. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment means comprises a flexible snap-fit ​​curved compression clasp. In another embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment means comprises a clip for engaging an end effector extending from the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[0008] Alternatively, the distal attachment means may include a mounting block adapted and configured for spring-loaded compressive engagement with the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, the mounting block including rails on its sidewalls for slidably engaging an elongated track extending along the tubular body, wherein a pinion gear may be included on the sidewall of the mounting block for cooperating with a gear rack provided adjacent the elongated track to advance or retract the tubular body relative to the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[0009] In another embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment means includes a mounting sleeve adapted and configured for surrounding engagement at the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, the mounting sleeve including an outer body portion and an inner body portion mounted to extend from and retract into the outer body portion to accommodate end effectors of different lengths, an annular smoke evacuation passage formed between the outer body portion and the inner body portion of the mounting sleeve.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the smoke evacuation device further includes proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[0011] In one embodiment of the invention, the proximal attachment means includes a clip for engaging a power cord extending from the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument. In another embodiment of the invention, the proximal attachment means includes a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having accommodating contact surfaces. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the proximal attachment means includes a flexible snap-fit ​​curved compression clasp.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the tubular body includes a telescoping tube adapted and configured to extend from and retract into the distal end of the tubular body. In one embodiment, the telescoping tube and the tubular body are threadably associated with one another. In another embodiment, the proximal end of the telescoping tube and the distal end of the tubular body are sealingly associated with one another. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the tubular body has an offset section between its opposing proximal and distal end portions. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a nozzle tip is operably associated with the distal end of the telescoping tube. In some embodiments of the present invention, the nozzle tip has a tapered cone configuration, and in other embodiments, the nozzle tip has an entrapment portion that surrounds an end effector extending from the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[0013] In summary, a smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument is disclosed that includes an elongate tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions and either distal attachment means for attaching the distal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, or both distal and proximal attachment means for attaching the distal and proximal end portions of the tubular body adjacent the distal and proximal end portions, respectively, of the handheld surgical instrument.

[0014] These and other features of the smoke evacuation device of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the detailed description of the preferred embodiment in conjunction with the following brief description of the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the lighting device of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art will readily understand, without undue experimentation, how to make and use the lighting device of the present invention.

[0016] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment and adhesive tape before being attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument by adhesive tape. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument by adhesive tape. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument by adhesive tape. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument by adhesive tape and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument by adhesive tape and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument by adhesive tape and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 8A] FIG. 1 is a partial top view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram of suction tubing. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram of suction tubing. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a diagram of suction tubing. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a diagram of suction tubing. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment before being attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a partial top view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a partial bottom view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 29] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 26. [Figure 30] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 31] FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke vent telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 32] FIG. 1 is a partial side view of the smoke vent telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 33] FIG. 1 is a partial side view of the smoke vent telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 34] FIG. 10 is a partial top view of the smoke vent telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 35] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 36] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 34. [Figure 37] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in an extended position. [Figure 38] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in an extended position. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG. 38. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is an enlarged view of area F in FIG. 39. [Figure 41] FIG. 40 is an enlarged view of area G in FIG. 39. [Figure 42] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the clamp. [Figure 43] FIG. [Figure 44] FIG. [Figure 45] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another smoke vent telescoping attachment before attachment to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 46] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 47] FIG. 1 is an isometric view (from another perspective) of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 48] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 49] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 50] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 51] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 52] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 53] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 54] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 55] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 56] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in a retracted compact state. [Figure 57] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is an enlarged view of region H in FIG. 57. [Figure 59] FIG. 58 is an enlarged view of area J in FIG. 57. [Figure 60] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke vent telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 61] FIG. 1 is a top view of the smoke vent telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 62] FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view taken along line KK in FIG. 60. [Figure 63] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in an extended position. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view taken along line LL in FIG. 63. [Figure 65] FIG. 65 is an enlarged view of region M in FIG. 64. [Figure 66] This is an enlarged view of area N in Figure 64. [Figure 67] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the outer tubing. [Figure 68] FIG. 10 is a side view of the outer tubing. [Figure 69] FIG. 10 is a front view of the outer tubing. [Figure 70] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the outer tubing. [Figure 71] FIG. 1 is a top view of an adaptive (rubber) plate. [Figure 72] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an adaptive (rubber) plate. [Figure 73] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment before being attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 74] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 75] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 76] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 77] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 78] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 79] FIG. 1 is a top view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 80] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 81] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 82] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 83] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in a compact, retracted state. [Figure 84] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 85] FIG. 85 is an enlarged view of region P in FIG. 84. [Figure 86] FIG. 85 is an enlarged view of area Q in FIG. 84. [Figure 87] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the outer tubing. [Figure 88] FIG. 10 is a front view of the outer tubing. [Figure 89] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the outer tubing. [Figure 90] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the retention device and smoke evacuation telescopic attachment before they are attached to the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 91] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 92] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 93] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 94] FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to a holding device and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 95] FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to a holding device and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 96] FIG. 1 is a front view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 97] FIG. 10 is a rear view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 96] FIG. 1 is a front view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 97] FIG. 10 is a rear view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 98]FIG. 1 is a top view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 99] FIG. 1 is a side view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 100] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 101] FIG. 99 is a cross-sectional view taken along line RR in FIG. 98. [Figure 102] FIG. [Figure 103] FIG. [Figure 104] FIG. [Figure 105] FIG. [Figure 106] FIG. [Figure 107] FIG. 106 is a cross-sectional view taken along line SS in FIG. 105. [Figure 108] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the outer body. [Figure 109] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the outer body. [Figure 110] FIG. [Figure 111] FIG. [Figure 112] FIG. [Figure 113] FIG. 1 is an isometric exploded view of a telescoping attachment. [Figure 114] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a telescoping attachment. [Figure 115] FIG. [Figure 116] FIG. [Figure 117] FIG. 117 is a cross-sectional view taken along line TT in FIG. [Figure 118] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the retention device and smoke evacuation telescopic attachment before they are attached to the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 119]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 120] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 121] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to another side of the holding device. [Figure 122] FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to a holding device and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 123] FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to a holding device and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 124] This is the enlarged view or area U in Figure 123. [Figure 125] FIG. 1 is a top view of a view holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 126] FIG. 12 is a left side view of a view holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 127] FIG. 10 is a right side view of a view holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 128] FIG. 1 is a front view of a view holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 129] FIG. 12 is a rear view of a view holding device attached to an electrosurgical instrument and a telescoping attachment attached to the holding device. [Figure 130] FIG. 126 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 125. [Figure 131] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a holding device. [Figure 132] FIG. [Figure 133] FIG. [Figure 134]FIG. [Figure 135] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the retainer outer body. [Figure 136] FIG. 10 is a front view of the view-holding device outer body. [Figure 137] FIG. 10 is a side view of the view-keeping device outer body. [Figure 138] FIG. 10 is a top side view of the view-keeping device outer body. [Figure 139] FIG. 1 is an isometric exploded view of a telescoping attachment. [Figure 140] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a telescoping attachment. [Figure 141] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a tubing body with teeth. [Figure 142] FIG. [Figure 143] FIG. [Figure 144] FIG. [Figure 145] FIG. 144 is a cross-sectional view taken along line WW in FIG. 143. [Figure 146] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another smoke vent telescoping attachment before attachment to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 147] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 148] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 149] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 150] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 151] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 152]FIG. 1 is a front view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 153] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Fig. 154] FIG. 1 is a top view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 155] FIG. 1 is a side view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 156] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the telescoping attachment attached to the electrosurgical device. [Figure 157] FIG. 155 is a cross-sectional view taken along line YY in FIG. [Figure 158] FIG. 156 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 155. [Figure 159] FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 160] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 161] FIG. 159 is an enlarged view of area Z in FIG. 158. [Figure 162] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 163] FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Fig. 164] FIG. 164 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA-AA in FIG. 163. [Figure 165] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 166] FIG. 1 is a top view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 167] FIG. 167 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AB-AB in FIG. 166. [Figure 168] FIG. 167 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AC-AC in FIG. 166. [Figure 169] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the telescoping attachment tip assembly. [Figure 170] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a telescoping attachment tip assembly. [Figure 171] FIG. 1 is a front view of a telescoping attachment tip assembly. [Fig. 172] FIG. 1 is a side view of a telescoping attachment tip assembly. [Figure 173] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the telescoping attachment tip assembly. [Fig. 174] FIG. 172 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AD-AD in FIG. 171. [Figure 175] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another smoke vent telescoping attachment before attachment to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 176] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 177] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 178] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke vent telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument before the smoke vent tip has been adjusted to fit a first type of electrode. [Figure 179] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke venting telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument after the smoke venting tip has been adjusted to fit a first type of electrode. [Figure 180] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke vent telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument before the smoke vent tip has been adjusted to fit a second type of electrode. [Figure 181] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke venting telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument after the smoke venting tip has been adjusted to fit a second type of electrode. [Figure 182] FIG. 1 is a front view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 183] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 184] FIG. 1 is a top view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 185] FIG. 1 is a side view of a telescoping attachment attached to an electrosurgical device. [Figure 186] FIG. 185 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AE-AE in FIG. 184. [Figure 187]FIG. 186 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AF-AF in FIG. 185. [Figure 188] FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 189] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 190] FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 191] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 192] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment in an initial compact state. [Figure 193] FIG. 193 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AG-AG in FIG. 192. [Figure 194] 1A and 1B are side and rear views of the smoke evacuation telescopic attachment in an extended and adjusted state. [Figure 195] FIG. 195 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AH-AH in FIG. 194. [Figure 196] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the attachment outer body. [Figure 197] FIG. 2 is a front view of the attachment outer body. [Figure 198] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the attachment outer body. [Figure 199] FIG. 10 is a side view of the attachment outer body. [Figure 200] FIG. 199 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AJ-AJ of FIG. [Figure 201] FIG. [Figure 202] FIG. [Figure 203] FIG. 2 is a front view of the suction tip. [Figure 204] FIG. 1 is a side view of the suction tip. [Figure 205] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the suction tip. [Figure 206] 205 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AK-AK in FIG. 204. [Figure 207] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment before being attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 208]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 209] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 210] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 211] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 212] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted to accommodate electrodes of different lengths and types. [Figure 213] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 214] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 215] FIG. 1 is a top view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 216] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 217] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 218] FIG. 218 is an enlarged view of area AL in FIG. [Figure 219] FIG. 218 is an enlarged view of area AM in FIG. [Figure 220] FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 221] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 222] FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 223] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 224]FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 225] FIG. 1 is a top view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 226] FIG. 226 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AN-AN in FIG. 225. [Figure 227] FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke exhaust attachment outer body. [Figure 228] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the smoke evacuation attachment outer body. [Figure 229] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke evacuation attachment outer body. [Figure 230] FIG. 1 is a top view of the smoke evacuation attachment outer body. [Figure 231] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another smoke vent telescoping attachment before attachment to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 232] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 233] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to another side of the electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 234] 1A-1C are isometric views of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted for different suction points. [Figure 235] 1A-1C are isometric views of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument and suction tubing adjusted for different suction points. [Figure 236] FIG. 1 is a front view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 237] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 238] FIG. 1 is a side view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 239] FIG. 1 is a top view of a smoke evacuation telescopic attachment attached to an electrosurgical instrument. [Figure 240] FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of a smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 241]FIG. 1 is a front view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 242] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 243] FIG. 1 is a top view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 244] FIG. 1 is a side view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment. [Figure 245] FIG. 244 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AP-AP of FIG. 243. [Figure 246] FIG. 245 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AR-AR in FIG. 244. [Figure 247] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment outer body. [Figure 248] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the smoke exhaust telescopic attachment inner tube. [Figure 249] FIG. [Figure 250] FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify like structural elements of the various embodiments of the present invention, Figures 1 through 18 show a novel and useful smoke evacuation device 20 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. An electrical cable 4 extends from the proximal end of body 2 for attachment to a power source, and an end effector 6 in the form of an electrocautery blade extends from the distal end of body 2 for cauterizing and / or incising tissue.

[0018] Smoke evacuation device 20 includes an elongate tubular body having opposed proximal and distal body portions, proximal body portion 16 adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and distal body portion 12 adapted and configured to capture and remove smoke generated at a surgical site. Distal body portion 12 includes a proximal sealing barb 18 (see FIGS. 9-12, 16, and 18) for sealing engagement within the distal end of proximal body portion 16.

[0019] A distal mounting feature 8 is provided for mounting the distal body portion 12 of the smoke evacuation device 20 adjacent the distal end portion of the surgical instrument 10. Preferably, as shown in Figures 9-12 and 16-18, the distal mounting feature 8 is operatively associated with a laterally extending spacer flange 17 adapted and configured to maintain a predetermined ergonomic distance between the tubular body of the device 20 and the handheld surgical instrument 10, as best seen in Figures 8 and 8A.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, distal attachment feature 8 may be in the form of an adhesive strap, a hook-and-loop type fastener strap, or a cable tie strap. A user can position smoke evacuation device 20 at an appropriate location or distance, then secure the strap or attach adhesive to body 2 of surgical instrument 10. The user can then remove the strap or break the adhesive, adjust the position of the device, and reattach it.

[0021] The smoke evacuation device 20 further includes a telescoping tube 14 adapted and configured to extend from and retract into the distal end of the distal body portion 12. The telescoping tube 14 and the distal body portion 12 are threadably associated with one another, and as best seen in Figures 11-13, a cylindrical boss 24 extending radially inward is provided within a bore in the distal body portion 12 (see Figures 16-18) for cooperative engagement with a helical groove 22 formed in the exterior surface of the telescoping tube 14. The telescoping tube 14 is advanced distally and retracted proximally by axially rotating the tube 14 relative to the distal body portion 12.

[0022] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the telescoping tube 14 can be easily extended and retracted relative to the electrocautery blade / end effector 6 to allow for improved suction at the site of smoke generation while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when in tight surgical pockets, as well as the ability to adapt the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector, for the three end effectors 6, 6', and 6'', as shown, for example, in Figures 5-7.

[0023] 19-44, there is shown another novel and useful smoke evacuating device 30 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuating device 30 includes a proximal body portion 16 and a distal body portion 32. As best seen in FIG. 35, the proximal end of the distal body portion 32 includes a sealing barb for engaging the distal end of the proximal body portion 16.

[0024] A spring-loaded clip assembly is operatively associated with distal body portion 32 for removably securing smoke evacuation device 30 to body 2 of surgical instrument 10 at a desired location and angular orientation on either side of body 2 relative to end effector 6, for example, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 . The spring-loaded clip assembly includes upper and lower cooperating clip portions 42, 44 and a coiled torsion spring 46. Soft rubber plates 52 and 52′ are associated with inner clip / contact regions 64 of each clip portion 42, 44, respectively, for firmly gripping body 2 of electrosurgical instrument 10, as shown in FIG. 29 . Clip portions 42, 44 each have a circular opening 66 (see FIGS. 42-44 ) for supporting the clip assembly on distal body portion 32 between proximal flange 33 and fixation ring 48, as best seen in FIGS. 33 and 34 .

[0025] As shown in Figures 35 to 38, the distal body portion 32 of the smoke evacuation device 30 has three telescopically nested tubular telescopic sections, including a proximal section 32, an intermediate section 34, and a distal section 36. As shown in Figures 39 to 41, a stop flange 54 is provided at the proximal end of tube 36 for interacting with a stop flange 56 at the distal end of tube 34, and a stop flange 62 is provided at the proximal end of tube 34 for interacting with a stop flange 58 at the distal end of tube 32, to limit the extension of one telescopic tube relative to the other.

[0026] The distal end of the distal telescoping section 36 is provided with a suction tip 38. A user can pull the telescoping section (or sections) relative to the distal body section 32 to extend the length of the smoke evacuation device 30. While the proximal section 16 remains fixed relative to the body 2 of the instrument 10, the telescoping sections (32, 34, and 36) can be adjusted for optimal positioning to allow for improved suction at the smoke generation site while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when within tight surgical pockets and the ability to adapt to the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector (6, 6', and 6''), as shown in FIGS. 22-24 .

[0027] 45-72, another novel and useful smoke evacuating device 40 is shown for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuating device 40 includes a proximal body portion 16, a distal body portion 72, and a telescoping portion 74 having a distal suction tip 76. A sealing barb 88 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 72 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16. As best seen in FIGS. 64 and 65, a stop flange 96 is provided at the proximal end of the tube 74 for interaction with a stop flange 94 at the distal end of the distal body portion 72.

[0028] The smoke venting device 40 includes a distal attachment feature in the form of a bendable or flexible clip structure having a pair of spaced apart, deflectable arms 78 and 78' with adapted (e.g., soft rubber) contact plates 82 and 82', respectively, for securing the smoke venting device 40 to the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10 (see FIG. 54). In addition, the smoke venting device 40 includes a proximal attachment feature in the form of a relatively rigid cable locking clip 84 having an inner profile portion 86 adapted and configured to snap onto the soft insulation of the cable 4 extending from the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10 (see FIG. 55).

[0029] 73-89, another novel and useful smoke evacuating device 50 is shown for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuating device 50 includes a proximal body portion 16, a distal body portion 102, and a telescoping portion 104 having a distal suction tip 106. As shown in FIG. 85, a sealing barb 118 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 102 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16. As shown in FIG. 86, a stop flange is provided at the proximal end of the tube 104 for interacting with a stop flange at the distal end of the distal body portion 102.

[0030] The smoke evacuating device 50 further includes a distal attachment feature in the form of a bendable clip structure including a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms 108 and 108' having adapted (e.g., soft rubber) contact plates 114 and 114', respectively, for securing the device to the distal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, as shown in Figures 81 and 88. In addition, the smoke evacuating device 50 includes a proximal attachment feature in the form of a bendable clip structure including a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms 112 and 112' also having adapted (e.g., soft rubber) contact plates 116 and 116', respectively, for securing the device to the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, as shown in Figures 82 and 89.

[0031] 90 through 117, there is shown another novel and useful smoke evacuation device 70 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuation device 70 includes a proximal body portion 16 and a distal body portion 132 having a distal suction tip. As shown in FIG. 116, a sealing barb 168 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 122 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16.

[0032] In this embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment feature is in the form of a mounting block 60 that includes a rectangular housing 134 having a rear cover 136. A rectangular engagement ring 138 resides within the housing 134, which includes an adapted inner plate 146 for compressive engagement with the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, as best seen in FIG. 101. The engagement ring 138 is biased by a coiled compression spring 144 seated within a recess 156 in its upper surface.

[0033] A passageway extends through the housing 134 for receiving the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. The passageway is defined by a port 148 in the rear cover 136 and a corresponding aligned port 152 in the front wall of the housing 134. As best seen in FIG. 107 , a push button 158 is formed on the bottom surface of the engagement ring 138 for moving the engagement ring against the bias of the coil spring 144 to release the surgical instrument 10 therefrom. The push button 158 extends through an aperture 154 formed in the bottom surface of the housing 134 and defined in part by a protrusion 164 on the rear cover 136 (see FIG. 112 ).

[0034] As best seen in FIGS. 103-106 , a pair of rails 142 and 142′ are provided on opposing side walls of housing 134. Rails 142 and 142′ are adapted and configured for selective, sliding cooperative engagement with an elongated track 166 extending along the length of distal body portion 132, as best seen in FIGS. 115-117 . In use, regardless of the side of mounting block 60 on which smoke evacuation device 70 is supported, it can be slidably extended and retracted along track 166 relative to mounting block 60 for optimal positioning to allow for improved suction at the smoke generation site while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when within tight surgical pockets and the ability to accommodate the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector (6 and 6′), as shown, for example, in FIGS. 94 and 95 .

[0035] 118 through 145, there is shown another novel and useful smoke evacuation device 80 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuation device 80 includes a proximal body portion 16 and a distal body portion 186 having a distal suction tip. A sealing barb 208 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 186 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16 (see FIG. 141).

[0036] In this embodiment of the invention, the distal attachment feature is also in the form of a mounting block 90 that includes a rectangular housing 182 having a rear cover 188. A rectangular engagement ring 192 resides within the housing 182 and includes an adapted inner plate 196 for compressive engagement with the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, as best seen in FIG. 130. The engagement ring 192 is biased by a coiled compression spring 194 seated within a recess in its upper surface.

[0037] A passageway extends through the housing 182 for receiving the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. The passageway is defined by a port 204 in the rear cover 188 and a corresponding aligned port 206 in the front wall of the housing 182. A push button 192 is formed on the bottom surface of the engagement ring 192 for moving the engagement ring against the bias of the coil spring 194. A push button 158 for releasing the surgical instrument 10 extends through an aperture formed in the bottom surface of the housing 182 and partially defined by a protrusion on the rear cover 188 (see FIG. 132 ).

[0038] A pair of rails 202 and 202' are provided on opposing side walls of housing 182, as best seen in FIGS. 133-138, for selective cooperative sliding engagement with an elongated track 214 extending along the length of distal body portion 186, as best seen in FIGS. 142-145. In this embodiment of the invention, pinion gears 184 and 184' are mounted on respective side axles 198 extending from opposing side walls of housing 182. Pinion gears 184 and 184' cooperate with an elongated gear rack 212 formed along the length of distal body portion 186, as best seen in FIG. 124.

[0039] In use, regardless of the side of the mounting block 90 on which the smoke evacuation device 80 is supported, the smoke evacuation device 80 can be slidably extended and retracted relative to the mounting block 90 along the track 166 through rotation of the pinion gears 184, 184′ for optimal positioning to allow for improved suction at the site of smoke generation, while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when within tight surgical pockets and the ability to accommodate the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector (6 and 6′), as shown in FIGURES 122 and 123. At such time, friction between the rails 202, 202′ and the track 214 prevents accidental displacement of the distal body portion 186.

[0040] 146-174, another novel and useful smoke evacuation device 100 is shown for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuation device 100 includes a proximal body portion 16, a distal body portion 242, and a telescoping portion 244 having a distal suction tip assembly 246, as best seen in FIGS. 163-164. The suction tip assembly 246 is described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 169-174. As best seen in FIG. 165, a sealing barb 254 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 242 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16, and stop flanges are provided at the proximal end of the telescoping portion 244 and the distal end of the distal body portion 242.

[0041] 165-168 , the smoke evacuating device 100 includes a distal attachment feature in the form of a “C” shaped clamp 248 located adjacent the distal end of the distal body portion 242 for clamping to the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, and another “C” shaped clamp 252 located adjacent the proximal end of the distal body portion 242 for clamping to the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. The “C” shaped clamps 248 and 252 are sufficiently flexible to allow a user to snap the smoke evacuating device 100 into place. The clamps 248 and 252 are also adapted and configured to allow the smoke evacuating device 100 to be secured to the left or right side of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, or even the underside of the surgical instrument 10 as shown in FIG. 148 .

[0042] 169 to 174 , the suction tip assembly 246 of the smoke evacuation device 100 includes a tip body 256 defining an internal chamber 257 and a tip cover 258 for enclosing the chamber 257. An aperture 259 is provided at one end of the tip assembly 246 for receiving and surrounding the end effector 6. The aperture 259 also defines an annular inlet 261 to the internal chamber 257. The body 256 further defines an outlet 263 for the internal chamber 257 that communicates with the distal end of the telescoping portion 244. Thus, smoke drawn into the inlet 261 passes through the internal chamber 257 to the outlet 263 and into the telescoping portion 244.

[0043] In use, the proximal portion 16 of the smoke evacuation device 100 remains fixed relative to the body 2 of the instrument 10, but the telescoping portion 244 can be adjusted distally or proximally for optimal positioning to allow for improved suction through the nozzle assembly 246 at the site of smoke generation while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when within tight surgical pockets and the ability to adapt to the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector (6, 6', and 6''), as shown in Figures 149 to 151.

[0044] 175-206, there is shown another novel and useful smoke evacuating device 110 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuating device 110 includes a proximal body portion 16 and a distal body portion 278. As shown in FIG. 194, a sealing barb 288 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 278 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16.

[0045] Smoke evacuation device 110 differs from the other smoke evacuation devices described herein in that it includes a single attachment feature in the form of a "C" shaped clamp 282 located adjacent the proximal end of distal body portion 278 for clamping to the proximal end of body 2 of surgical instrument 10. Instead of a distal attachment feature provided in each of the other devices described herein, smoke evacuation device 110 includes a distal alignment feature that also functions as a telescoping nozzle assembly, as described in more detail below.

[0046] The distal alignment feature includes an outer body portion 272 extending from and in fluid communication with an inner side of the distal body portion 278, as best seen in FIGS. 196-200. The outer body portion 272 includes a conical receiving sleeve 292 for receiving the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, as best seen in FIGS. 184-187. The outer body portion 272 further includes an inner telescoping body portion 274 slidably associated therewith to telescopically extend and retract relative to the distal end of the outer body portion to allow for improved suction at the smoke generation site and the ability to accommodate the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector (6, 6', and 6''), as shown in FIGS. 179-181.

[0047] Inner body portion 274 further includes an inner sleeve 296 defining an annular suction channel 295 extending from the distal end of the inner body portion to stop flange 294. As best seen in FIG. 202 , stop flange 294 includes a plurality of arcuate ports 298 that facilitate fluid communication between annular suction channel 295 and the interior of outer body portion 272, which is in fluid communication with distal body portion 278. An inner cover 284 is associated with the distal end of conical receiving sleeve 292, and an outer cover 286 is associated with the distal end of outer body portion 272 to enclose the interior of outer body portion 272.

[0048] 207-230 , another novel and useful smoke evacuation device 120 is shown for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuation device 120 includes a proximal body portion 16, a distal body portion 312, and a telescoping portion 314 having a distal suction tip 316. In use, the telescoping portion 314 can be easily extended and retracted relative to the electrocautery blade / end effector 6 to allow for improved suction at the site of smoke generation while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when in tight surgical pockets, as well as the ability to adapt the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector, for example, as shown in FIGS. 210-212 , for the three end effectors 6, 6′, and 6″.

[0049] As best seen in FIG. 226, a sealing barb 324 is provided at the proximal end of distal body portion 312 for engagement within the distal end of proximal body portion 16, and stop flanges are provided at the proximal end of telescoping portion 324 and the distal end of distal body portion 242.

[0050] 216-219, the smoke evacuating device 120 includes a distal attachment feature in the form of a rigid clip structure 332 supported adjacent the distal end of a distal body portion 312 adapted and configured to engage a base of the extending end effector 6 at the distal end of the surgical instrument 10, and a proximal attachment feature in the form of a rigid clip structure 318 supported adjacent the proximal end of the distal body portion 312 adapted and configured to snap onto the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. Clips 318 and 312 are adapted and configured to allow the smoke evacuating device 120 to be secured to either the left or right side of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10.

[0051] As best seen in FIG. 215 , the length of the distal clip structure 322 is shorter than the length of the proximal clip structure 318. As a result, a clearance distance "D" is established between the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10 and the smoke evacuating device 120 to provide better ergonomics for a user holding the instrument. This allows the surgeon to hold the electrocautery device 10 without interference from the smoke evacuating device 120.

[0052] 231 through 250, there is shown another novel and useful smoke evacuating device 130 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 having an elongated body 2. In this embodiment of the invention, the smoke evacuating device 130 includes a proximal body portion 16, a distal body portion 352, and a telescoping portion 354 having a distal suction tip 356 (see FIGS. 249 and 250). As best seen in FIG. 248, a sealing barb 364 is provided at the proximal end of the distal body portion 352 for engagement within the distal end of the proximal body portion 16 (see FIG. 247), and stop flanges are provided at the proximal end of the telescoping portion 244 and the distal end of the distal body portion 242.

[0053] The smoke evacuating device 100 includes a distal attachment feature in the form of a "C" shaped clamp 358 located adjacent the distal end of the distal body portion 352 for clamping to the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. As best seen in FIGS. 246 and 247 , the clamp 358 has a tapered configuration for adapting to the profile of the distal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. The smoke evacuating device 100 further includes a proximal attachment feature in the form of another "C" shaped clamp 362 located adjacent the proximal end of the distal body portion 352 for clamping to the proximal end of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. The clamp 362 has a semi-cylindrical configuration for adapting to the profile of the proximal end portion of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10. The clamps 358 and 362 are adapted and configured to allow the smoke evacuating device 130 to be selectively secured to the left or right side of the body 2 of the surgical instrument 10, as shown in FIGS. 232 and 233 .

[0054] 239, distal body portion 352 has an offset curved shaped mid-section sized and configured to establish a distance "D" between the body 2 of surgical instrument 10 and smoke evacuation device 130 to provide better ergonomics for the user holding the instrument. In use, telescoping portion 354 can easily extend and retract relative to the electrocautery blade / end effector 6 to allow for improved suction at the site of smoke generation while providing flexibility to avoid anatomical structures when within tight surgical pockets and the ability to adapt to the length of the electrocautery blade / end effector.

[0055] While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand that changes or modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The inventions described in the original claims of this application are set forth below. [1] 1. A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld surgical instrument, comprising: a) an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site; b) distal attachment means for attaching the distal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; A smoke exhaust device comprising: [2] The smoke evacuation device according to [1], wherein the distal attachment means comprises a strap of adhesive material, a hook and loop type fastener strap, or a cable tie strap. [3] 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 1, wherein the distal attachment means comprises a spring-loaded compression clamp having an accommodating contact surface. [4] 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 1, wherein the distal attachment means comprises a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having accommodating contact surfaces. [5] The smoke evacuation device according to [1], wherein the distal attachment means comprises a flexible snap-on curved compression clasp. [6] [1] The smoke evacuation device described in [1], wherein the distal attachment means includes a mounting block adapted and configured for spring-loaded compressive engagement with the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, the mounting block including rails on its side walls for slidably engaging with elongated tracks extending along the tubular body. [7] [6] The smoke evacuation device of [6], wherein a pinion gear is included in the side wall of the mounting block for cooperating with a gear rack provided adjacent to the elongated track to advance or retract the tubular body relative to the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument. [8] [1] The smoke evacuation device described in [1], wherein the distal attachment means is an alignment feature including a mounting sleeve adapted and configured to surround engagement at the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, the mounting sleeve including an outer body portion and an inner body portion mounted to extend from and retract into the outer body portion to accommodate end effectors of different lengths. [9] [8] The smoke exhaust device according to [8], wherein an annular smoke exhaust passage is formed between the outer body portion and the inner body portion of the mounting sleeve.

[10] The smoke evacuation device of [1], wherein the distal attachment means includes a clip for engaging with an end effector extending from the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[11] 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 1, further comprising a proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent to the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[12]

[11] The smoke evacuation device according to

[11] , wherein the proximal attachment means includes a clip for engaging with a power cord extending from the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[13]

[10] A smoke evacuation device as described in

[10] , wherein the proximal attachment means comprises a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having accommodating contact surfaces.

[14]

[10] The smoke evacuation device according to

[10] , wherein the proximal attachment means comprises a flexible snap-on curved compression clasp.

[15] 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 1, wherein the tubular body includes a telescopic tube adapted and configured to extend from the distal end of the tubular body and retract therein.

[16]

[15] A smoke evacuation device as described in

[15] , wherein the telescopic tube and the tubular body are threadably associated with each other.

[17]

[15] A smoke evacuation device as described in

[15] , wherein the proximal end of the telescopic tube and the distal end of the tubular body are sealingly associated with each other.

[18] [1] The smoke evacuation device described in [1], wherein the tubular body has an offset section between the opposing proximal and distal end portions thereof to provide a predetermined ergonomic distance between the tubular body and the handheld surgical instrument.

[19]

[15] The smoke evacuation device according to

[15] , wherein a nozzle tip is operably associated with the distal end of the telescopic tube.

[20] The smoke exhaust device according to

[19] , wherein the nozzle tip has a tapered cone structure.

[21]

[19] The smoke evacuation device described in

[19] , wherein the nozzle tip has an intake portion that surrounds an end effector extending from the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[22] The smoke evacuation device of [1], wherein the distal attachment means is adapted and configured to maintain a predetermined ergonomic distance between the tubular body and the handheld surgical instrument.

[23] 1. A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a) an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site by the handheld electrosurgical instrument; b) distal attachment means for attaching the distal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; c) proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; A smoke exhaust device comprising:

[24]

[23] The smoke evacuation device of

[23] , wherein the tubular body includes at least one telescopic tube adapted and configured to extend from and retract into the distal end of the tubular body to enable improved suction at the surgical site where smoke is generated.

[25]

[23] The smoke evacuation device according to

[23] , wherein the distal and proximal attachment means are adapted and configured to maintain a predetermined ergonomic distance between the tubular body and the handheld surgical instrument.

[26] 1. A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld surgical instrument, comprising: a) an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site; b) proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; A smoke exhaust device comprising:

[27]

[26] The smoke evacuation device of

[26] , further comprising a distal alignment feature including a mounting sleeve adapted and configured to surround engagement at the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

[28]

[27] The smoke evacuation device described in

[27] , wherein the mounting sleeve includes an outer body portion and an inner body portion, the inner body portion being mounted to extend from and retract into the outer body portion to accommodate end effectors of different lengths.

[29]

[28] The smoke evacuation device according to

[28] , wherein an annular smoke evacuation passage is formed between the outer body portion and the inner body portion of the mounting sleeve.

[30] 26. The smoke evacuation device according to

[26] , wherein the proximal attachment means comprises a flexible compression clasp.

Claims

1. 1. A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld surgical instrument, comprising: a) an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site; b) distal attachment means for attaching the distal end portion of the tubular body adjacent to the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; Equipped with the distal attachment means is an alignment feature including a mounting sleeve adapted and configured to surround engagement at the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, the mounting sleeve including an outer body portion and an inner body portion mounted to extend from and retract into the outer body portion to accommodate end effectors of different lengths; A smoke evacuation device, wherein an annular smoke evacuation passage is formed between the outer body portion and the inner body portion of the mounting sleeve.

2. 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 1, further comprising proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

3. 3. The smoke evacuation device of claim 2, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a clip for engaging a power cord extending from the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

4. 3. The smoke evacuation device of claim 2, wherein said proximal attachment means comprises a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having accommodating contact surfaces.

5. 3. The smoke evacuation device of claim 2, wherein said proximal attachment means comprises a flexible snap-on curved compression clasp.

6. 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 1, wherein the distal attachment means is adapted and configured to maintain a predetermined distance between the tubular body and the handheld surgical instrument.

7. 1. A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a) an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site by the handheld electrosurgical instrument; b) distal attachment means for attaching the distal end portion of the tubular body adjacent to the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; c) proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; Equipped with the distal attachment means is an alignment feature including a mounting sleeve adapted and configured to surround engagement at the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument, the mounting sleeve including an outer body portion and an inner body portion mounted to extend from and retract into the outer body portion to accommodate end effectors of different lengths; A smoke evacuation device, wherein an annular smoke evacuation passage is formed between the outer body portion and the inner body portion of the mounting sleeve.

8. 8. The smoke evacuation device of claim 7, wherein the distal and proximal attachment means are adapted and configured to maintain a predetermined distance between the tubular body and the handheld surgical instrument.

9. 1. A smoke evacuation device for use with a handheld surgical instrument, comprising: a) an elongated tubular body having opposed proximal and distal end portions, the proximal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to communicate with a suction source and the distal end portion of the tubular body adapted and configured to capture smoke generated at a surgical site; b) proximal attachment means for attaching the proximal end portion of the tubular body adjacent the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; c) a distal alignment feature including a mounting sleeve adapted and configured to surround engagement at the distal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument; Equipped with the mounting sleeve includes an outer body portion and an inner body portion, the inner body portion mounted to extend from and retract into the outer body portion to accommodate end effectors of different lengths; A smoke evacuation device, wherein an annular smoke evacuation passage is formed between the outer body portion and the inner body portion of the mounting sleeve.

10. 10. The smoke evacuation device of claim 9, wherein the proximal attachment means comprises a flexible compression clasp.

11. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 1, wherein the mounting sleeve has an annular suction channel within the wall of the inner body portion.

12. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 7, wherein the mounting sleeve has an annular suction channel within the wall of the inner body portion.

13. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 9, wherein the mounting sleeve has an annular suction channel within the wall of the inner body portion.

14. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 7, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a clip for engaging a power cord extending from the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

15. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 7, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having accommodating contact surfaces.

16. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 7, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a flexible snap-on curved compression clasp.

17. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 9, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a clip for engaging a power cord extending from the proximal end portion of the handheld surgical instrument.

18. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 9, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a pair of spaced apart deflectable arms having accommodating contact surfaces.

19. A smoke exhaust device as described in claim 9, wherein the proximal attachment means includes a flexible snap-on curved compression clasp.

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