Illumination device for handheld surgical instruments with smoke evacuation system

Abstract

An illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument is disclosed that includes an elongated housing having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an internal chamber that houses a battery-powered illumination assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the housing having a smoke exhaust conduit associated therewith for removing smoke generated at the surgical site, the smoke exhaust conduit adapted and configured to extend and retract relative to the distal end of the housing to accommodate end effectors of different lengths associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 16 / 918,449, filed July 1, 2020, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 16 / 519,744, filed July 23, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The subject invention is directed to surgical instruments and, more particularly, to a battery-powered illumination device for use with handheld electrosurgical instruments that include a smoke evacuation system. [Background technology]

[0003] In medical practice, illuminators are used to direct light to a specific area being manipulated or examined. For example, illuminators can be used with handheld electrosurgical devices, such as the BOVIE® pencil, which is typically used to cut tissue during surgical procedures.

[0004] While some devices known in the art include an integrated light source, these devices are generally expensive and relatively bulky. Cordless and corded lighting devices for surgical instruments are also known in the art, but these can add bulk and prevent users from manipulating the instrument accurately or in confined spaces. Other devices known in the art include an integrated smoke exhaust conduit, but these devices are generally expensive and present usability challenges due to the added bulk that impacts ergonomics.

[0005] Furthermore, many lighting devices, especially corded devices and overhead lights, require constant repositioning, rely on an assistant to hold or reposition them, and can disrupt the surgical field. Additionally, coded lighting devices, as well as light sources built into the equipment, can become hot and cause burns to the user and / or patient, and in some cases, can even cause fires.

[0006] Headlamps can be used as an alternative to lighting devices during surgical procedures. However, like lighting devices, headlamps are bulky, generally require cables to connect to a power source, require constant readjustment, and can pose a potential safety hazard. Furthermore, when worn on the surgeon's head, they are far from the surgical field, reducing their effectiveness, and they can cause fatigue and strain when worn for extended periods of time.

[0007] As is known, when handheld lighting devices, overhead lights, and / or headlamps are used during surgery, the surgeon's hands / instruments can block the light and cast undesirable shadows on the surgical site. These shadows require the user to periodically reposition the light source, and may even require the surgeon to move their head to try to angle the headlamp differently toward the surgical site.

[0008] A particularly useful battery-powered illumination device designed for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical device, particularly for use with a BOVIE® pencil, is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 9,851,060, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and which overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art illumination devices discussed above.

[0009] The use of handheld electrosurgical devices, such as the BOVIE® Pen, to cut tissue typically produces surgical smoke when 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.

[0010] 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 has led to the development and use of smoke evacuation systems during surgery. Smoke evacuators are essentially vacuum pumps with one or more filters designed to remove surgical smoke and aerosols from the surgical site and remove contaminants. Furthermore, they can return filtered air to the operating room.

[0011] In view of the growing need and desire for surgical evacuation systems in operating rooms, the inventors have determined that it would be advantageous to incorporate such a system directly into a battery-powered illumination device used with handheld electrosurgical instruments. The present disclosure presents several novel and useful embodiments of a battery-powered illumination device for use with electrosurgical instruments such as the BOVIE® Pencil that incorporates a smoke evacuation system. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention relates to a novel and useful lighting device for attachment to a handheld surgical instrument, preferably for removably attaching to a handheld electrosurgical instrument. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a lighting device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument including an elongated housing having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an interior chamber containing a battery-powered lighting assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the housing having at least one smoke exhaust passageway associated therewith extending from an inlet located adjacent, near, or proximal to the distal end of the housing to an outlet located adjacent, near, or proximal to the proximal end of the housing for removing smoke generated at the surgical site.

[0013] In one embodiment of the lighting device, the smoke exhaust passage is located within the lighting device housing, separated from the internal chamber by an inner wall of the housing. In another embodiment of the lighting device, the smoke exhaust passage is located outside the lighting device housing, separated from the internal chamber by an outer wall of the housing.

[0014] A connecting fitting is associated with the outlet of the smoke exhaust passage for connecting the smoke exhaust passage with a smoke exhaust pipe in communication with the suction source. Preferably, a filter element is disposed in at least one of the smoke exhaust passages or in the smoke exhaust pipe. It is envisioned that the smoke exhaust passage can have any cross-sectional configuration, including, for example, a rectangular, square, oval, or circular cross-sectional configuration.

[0015] In yet another embodiment of the lighting device, the associated smoke exhaust passage extends through a nozzle assembly removably connected to the exterior side wall of the lighting device housing. In such an embodiment, the nozzle assembly may be removably connected to the exterior wall of the housing by a snap-fit ​​connection mechanism including an engaging flange on the exterior wall of the housing and a pair of deflectable engaging protrusions on the nozzle assembly, or vice versa. Alternatively, the associated nozzle assembly may be removably connected to the exterior wall of the housing by a sliding tongue-and-groove connection mechanism including a groove portion on the exterior wall of the housing and a tongue portion on the nozzle assembly, or vice versa. In yet another embodiment, the nozzle assembly may be removably connected to the exterior wall of the housing by an adhesive strip.

[0016] Preferably, the associated nozzle assembly includes an inlet nozzle, a smoke exhaust conduit extending proximally from the inlet nozzle, and a barbed fitting at the proximal end of the smoke exhaust conduit. The inlet nozzle includes at least one inlet orifice adapted and configured to maximize smoke exhaust coverage and performance as it may be positioned near the ablation site where smoke is generated. In this regard, it is also contemplated that the inlet nozzle may be configured to telescope or otherwise extend distally so that it may be positioned in proximity to a smoke-producing source.

[0017] The filter element can be attached to at least one of the inlet nozzle, the barbed fitting, or the smoke exhaust tube. A fitting is operably associated with the smoke exhaust tube for securing the tube to the surgical instrument.

[0018] Preferably, the battery-powered lighting assembly includes a printed circuit board including at least one LED lighting component, at least one battery cell, and a switching mechanism. An activation button is associated with the housing for activating the switching mechanism. In an embodiment of the invention, at least one rotatable fan is disposed within the smoke exhaust passage and operably connected to the printed circuit board of the battery-powered lighting assembly. The fan may be configured to direct airflow from the smoke exhaust passage or to draw airflow into the smoke exhaust passage.

[0019] In an embodiment of the invention, the housing of the illumination device includes a clamping mechanism for selectively attaching the illumination device to a surgical instrument. The clamping mechanism includes a generally U-shaped clamp body having a pair of opposing parallel clamping arms, with an adjustable retention screw associated with one clamping arm and a compliant material plate disposed on the inner surface of the other clamping arm. The clamping mechanism is pivotally connected to the housing about a pivot axis extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated housing.

[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the interior chamber of the housing has a conical bore for receiving the distal end of a surgical instrument. In this embodiment, the battery-powered illumination assembly is adapted and configured to activate or otherwise turn on when the distal end of the surgical instrument is received within the conical bore. Conversely, the battery-powered illumination assembly is adapted and configured to deactivate or otherwise turn off when the distal end of the surgical instrument is removed from the conical bore.

[0021] The present invention is also directed to a kit for performing a surgical procedure that includes a packaging enclosure, a battery-powered lighting device contained within the packaging enclosure configured for attachment to a handheld surgical instrument, and a smoke extraction nozzle assembly contained within the packaging enclosure configured for attachment to the lighting device. The kit may further include a handheld surgical instrument within the packaging enclosure for performing the surgical procedure.

[0022] Preferably, the smoke exhaust nozzle assembly includes an inlet nozzle, a smoke exhaust tube extending proximally from the inlet nozzle, and a barbed connection fitting at the proximal end of the smoke exhaust tube, and a clamping mechanism associated with the tube for selectively attaching the tube to a surgical instrument.

[0023] The present invention is also directed to a method for performing a surgical procedure, comprising the steps of attaching an illumination device to a surgical instrument, the illumination device having an integrally or connectively associated smoke exhaust passageway, and connecting an outlet of the smoke exhaust passageway to a suction source, such as a smoke evacuator or suction device. The method may further comprise the steps of performing electrocautery using the surgical instrument and activating the suction source to perform evacuation of smoke through an inlet of the smoke exhaust passageway.

[0024] Preferably, the step of attaching the lighting device to the surgical instrument includes automatically activating a light source of the lighting device, and the method further includes the step of detaching the lighting device from the surgical instrument, thereby automatically deactivating the light source. Preferably, the step of connecting the outlet of the smoke exhaust passage to the suction source includes attaching a smoke exhaust tube to a first side of the lighting device, and the method further includes the steps of removing the smoke exhaust tube from the first side of the lighting device and reattaching the smoke exhaust tube to a second side of the lighting device.

[0025] The present invention is also directed to an illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument including an elongated housing having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an internal chamber that houses a battery-powered illumination assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the housing having a smoke exhaust conduit associated therewith for removing smoke generated at the surgical site, the smoke exhaust conduit adapted and configured to extend and retract relative to the distal end of the housing to accommodate end effectors of different lengths associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument, such as, for example, a cauterizing blade, loop or needle.

[0026] The smoke exhaust tube includes a proximal body portion for communicating with a suction source, a distal suction inlet for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site, and a distal body portion having a proximal connecting barb for providing a sealed connection with the distal end of the proximal body portion, more particularly for connecting to tubing associated with the suction source and providing a good seal.

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes elongated tracks adapted and configured to slidably cooperate with rails on the outer wall of the housing. Preferably, the housing has rails on opposite side walls thereof for cooperating with the elongated tracks of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube. Alternatively, the housing has elongated tracks on opposite side walls thereof for cooperating with rails of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[0028] Alternatively, the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube is adapted and configured to be selectively attached to the housing at locations along its length by an adhesive patch, band, or strap. Alternatively, hook and loop, cable tie, string, or other attachment mechanisms can be used. In another embodiment of the invention, the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes elongated ratchet racks adapted and configured to cooperate with deflectable pawls associated with an outer wall of the housing. Preferably, the housing has deflectable pawls on opposing side walls thereof for cooperating with the elongated ratchet racks of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[0029] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes an elongated gear rack adapted and configured to cooperate with at least one pinion gear associated with an outer wall of the housing. Preferably, the housing has pinion gears on opposing side walls thereof for cooperation with the elongated gear rack of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube. Alternatively, at least one pinion gear is associated with the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube adapted and configured to cooperate with the elongated gear rack of the housing.

[0030] In another embodiment of the invention, the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes a mounting flange for engaging a rail on an outer wall of the housing, the distal body portion including a telescoping inner tube that is telescoping relative to the distal body portion by axial rotation by a helical thread to provide a distal suction inlet. Preferably, the housing has pinion gears on opposite side walls thereof for cooperating with elongated gear racks on the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[0031] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes a mounting flange for engaging a rail on an outer wall of the housing, the distal body portion including a plurality of graduated telescopic inner tubular members telescopic relative to the distal body portion. Preferably, the housing has pinion gears on opposing side walls thereof for cooperating with elongated gear racks on the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[0032] The present invention is also directed to an illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument, including an elongated housing having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an internal chamber for housing a battery-powered illumination assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the internal chamber defining a conical bore extending from the proximal end of the housing for receiving the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument and having an associated smoke exhaust tube for removing smoke generated at the surgical site. Preferably, the smoke exhaust tube is configured to telescope relative to the distal end of the housing, and the illumination assembly is activated when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is received in the conical bore and deactivated when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is removed from the conical bore. It is envisioned, and well within the scope of the present disclosure, that the smoke exhaust tube assembly may include at least one filter element for filtering particles and debris drawn into the smoke exhaust tube from the surgical site.

[0033] The present invention is also directed to a method including attaching a smoke exhaust tube to a handheld electrosurgical instrument for removing smoke generated at a surgical site, and then adjusting the smoke exhaust tube relative to a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument to accommodate end effectors of different lengths installed on the electrosurgical instrument. The method further includes attaching an illumination device to the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument for illuminating the surgical site, the attaching step including attaching the smoke exhaust tube to the illumination device. The adjusting step includes extending the smoke exhaust tube distally relative to the distal end of the illumination device and retracting the smoke exhaust tube proximally relative to the distal end of the illumination device.

[0034] These and other features of the lighting device of the present invention will become 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]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting device with an internal smoke exhaust passageway that can be attached and that is separate from the surgical instrument. [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view of a lighting device having an internal smoke exhaust passage attached to the surgical instrument shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting device having an internal smoke exhaust passage attached to a surgical instrument with a smoke exhaust tube connected thereto. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a front view of a lighting device with an internal smoke exhaust passage attached to a surgical instrument. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a lighting device with an internal smoke exhaust passage attached to a surgical instrument. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 7 is a rear view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 6. [Figure 11] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 6, with parts separated for ease of explanation. [Figure 12] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting device with internal smoke exhaust passage taken along line AA in FIG. 7. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting device having an internal smoke exhaust passageway that includes an internal fan separate from the surgical instrument that may be attached. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the illumination device of FIG. 13 attached to a surgical instrument. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the illumination device and surgical instrument of FIG. 14 with a smoke exhaust tube connected thereto. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a front view of the illumination device and surgical instrument of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a rear view of the illumination device and surgical instrument of FIG. 15. [Figure 18] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a front view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 19 is a side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 19 is a rear view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the printed circuit board, LED, switch, and fan subassembly housed within the lighting device of FIG. 18. [Figure 24] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the lighting device of FIG. 18, with parts separated for ease of illustration. [Figure 25] 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting device taken along line BB in FIG. 19. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical lighting system having an attachable smoke evacuation subassembly separated from a surgical instrument. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the surgical lighting device shown in FIG. 26 with the smoke evacuation subassembly attached and engaged to the distal end of a surgical instrument. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 27 showing the left attachment. [Figure 29] FIG. 28 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 27 showing the right attachment. [Figure 30] FIG. 28 is a right side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 27. [Figure 31] FIG. 28 is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 27. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 31. [Figure 33] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 26. [Figure 34] FIG. 27 is a top view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 26. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 34. [Figure 36] 27 is a perspective view of a subassembly including a printed circuit board, a battery, a switch, and an LED housed in the lighting device shown in FIG. 26. FIG. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a front end view of the subassembly shown in FIG. 36. [Figure 38] FIG. 27 is a side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 26. [Figure 39] 39 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line EE of FIG. 38 showing a sliding mechanism for removably connecting the smoke evacuation subassembly to the lighting device. [Figure 40] FIG. 37 is a front end view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 36. [Figure 41] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the smoke ejection nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 26. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a front end view of the smoke exhaust nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 43] FIG. 42 is a side view of the smoke ejection nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 44] FIG. 43 is an enlarged, localized view of the connective tongue shown in FIG. 42. [Figure 45] FIG. 42 is a bottom view of the smoke exhaust nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 46] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another surgical lighting device having a removable attachable smoke evacuation subassembly separated from a surgical instrument. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the surgical lighting device shown in FIG. 46 with the smoke evacuation subassembly attached and engaged to the distal end of a surgical instrument. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 47 showing the left attachment. [Figure 49] FIG. 48 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 47 showing the right attachment. [Figure 50] FIG. 48 is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 47. [Figure 51] FIG. 48 is a right side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 47. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line GG of FIG. 51. [Figure 53] FIG. 47 is a right side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 46. [Figure 54] FIG. 47 is a top view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 46. [Figure 55] FIG. 47 is a front end view of the subassembly shown in FIG. 46. [Figure 56] FIG. 54 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line HH in FIG. 53. [Figure 57] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the smoke ejection nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 46. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a front end view of the smoke exhaust nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 57. [Figure 59] FIG. 58 is a rear end view of the smoke ejection nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 57. [Figure 60] FIG. 59 is an enlarged, localized view of the connective arm shown in FIG. 59. [Figure 61] FIG. 47 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 46, showing a smoke exhaust tube extending from the nozzle assembly including a clip for engaging the proximal end of a surgical instrument. [Figure 62] FIG. 62 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 61, showing the clip of the smoke vent tube engaged with the proximal end of the surgical instrument. [Figure 63] FIG. 63 is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 62. [Figure 64] FIG. 63 is a right side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 62. [Figure 65] FIG. 63 is a rear end view of the assembly shown in FIG. 62. [Figure 66] 63 is an exploded side view of the smoke exhaust passage shown in FIG. 62, including the nozzle assembly, smoke exhaust tube, engagement clip, and barbed connector. [Figure 67] FIG. 63 is an assembled side view of the smoke exhaust passage shown in FIG. 62. [Figure 68] 68 is a cross-sectional view of the barbed connector taken along line KK of FIG. 67, showing possible positions of the filter element. [Figure 69] FIG. 63 is a rear end view of the smoke exhaust passage shown in FIG. 62. [Figure 70] FIG. 63 is a front end view of the smoke exhaust passage shown in FIG. 62. [Figure 71] 47 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 46, showing the nozzle assembly including an adhesive strip for securing the smoke exhaust passageway to the lighting device, which is shown separated from the surgical instrument. [Figure 72]FIG. 72 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 71, showing the illumination device disposed at the distal end of the surgical instrument and the nozzle assembly of the smoke exhaust passage attached to the illumination device by an adhesive strip. [Figure 73] FIG. 73 is a front end view of the assembly shown in FIG. 72 with the adhesive strip in an unsecured state. [Figure 74] FIG. 73 is a front end view of the assembly shown in FIG. 72 with the adhesive strip in a secured position. [Figure 75] FIG. 73 is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 72 with the adhesive strip in a secured position. [Figure 76] FIG. 73 is a right side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 72 with the adhesive strip in a secured position. [Figure 77] FIG. 73 is a bottom view of the assembly shown in FIG. 72 with the adhesive strip in a secured position. [Figure 78] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting device with an external smoke exhaust passageway that can be attached and that is separate from a surgical instrument. [Figure 79] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of a lighting device having an external smoke exhaust passage attached to the tip of the surgical instrument shown in FIG. 78. [Figure 80] FIG. 80 is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 79. [Figure 81] FIG. 80 is a right side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 79. [Figure 82] FIG. 80 is a front end view of the assembly shown in FIG. 79. [Figure 83] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 79 with the smoke exhaust pipe disconnected from the external smoke exhaust path. [Figure 84] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 79, in which a smoke exhaust pipe is connected to the external smoke exhaust path. [Figure 85] FIG. 85 is a front end view of the lighting device shown in FIG. 84. [Figure 86] FIG. 86 is a cross-sectional view taken along line LL in FIG. 85. [Figure 87] FIG. 1 is a front end view of a tubular smoke exhaust inlet nozzle. [Figure 88]FIG. 88 is a side view of the inlet nozzle shown in FIG. 87. [Figure 89] FIG. 88 is a cross-sectional view taken along line MM in FIG. 87. [Figure 90] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a multi-orifice smoke evacuation inlet nozzle configured to distribute suction over a distance to better draw surgical smoke to cover a larger area of ​​the surgical field. [Figure 91] FIG. 91 is an exploded perspective view of the inlet nozzle shown in FIG. 90. [Figure 92] FIG. 91 is a front end view of the inlet nozzle shown in FIG. 90. [Figure 93] FIG. 91 is a side end view of the inlet nozzle shown in FIG. 90. [Figure 94] FIG. 62 is an exploded perspective view of a kit having a packaging enclosure configured to hold the lighting device and smoke exhaust assembly shown in FIG. 61. [Figure 95] FIG. 95 is a perspective view of the kit shown in FIG. 94, in which the lighting device and smoke exhaust assembly are packaged within an enclosure. [Figure 96] FIG. 95 is a top perspective view of the packaging enclosure shown in FIG. 94. [Figure 97] FIG. 95 is a bottom perspective view of the packaging enclosure shown in FIG. 94. [Figure 98] FIG. 62 is an exploded perspective view of a kit having a lighting device, a smoke exhaust assembly, and a packaging enclosure configured to hold a surgical instrument shown in FIG. 61, the surgical instrument having connecting wires (those skilled in the art will readily understand that the wires have been omitted in previous figures for ease of illustration). [Figure 99] FIG. 99 is a perspective view of the kit shown in FIG. 98, in which the lighting device, smoke exhaust assembly, and surgical instrument are packaged within an enclosure. [Figure 100] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another illumination device separated from a surgical instrument to which it may be attached, including multiple external smoke exhaust passages. [Figure 101] 101 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 100, but showing the illumination device attached to the distal end of the surgical instrument. [Figure 102]FIG. 102 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 101 with a smoke exhaust pipe connected to the smoke exhaust passage on the right side of the lighting device. [Figure 103] FIG. 102 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 101 with a smoke exhaust pipe connected to the smoke exhaust passage on the left side of the lighting device. [Figure 104] FIG. 103 is a top view of the assembly shown in FIG. 102. [Figure 105] FIG. 101 is a front end view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 106] FIG. 101 is a side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 107] 107 is a cross-sectional view taken along line NN in FIG. 106. [Figure 108] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illumination device mounted on the distal end of a surgical instrument, the illumination device having multiple separate mounting locations for mounting smoke exhaust passages, with the inlet nozzle of the smoke exhaust passage mounted at the bottom of the mounting locations. [Figure 109] FIG. 109 is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 108. [Figure 110] FIG. 109 is a front end view of the assembly shown in FIG. 108. [Figure 111] 109 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 108, in which the inlet nozzles of the two separate smoke exhaust passages are attached to the lighting device in two different positions. [Figure 112] FIG. 112 is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 113] FIG. 112 is a front end view of the assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 114] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical lighting device attached to a surgical instrument and shown with a smoke exhaust tube separated from the lighting device, the smoke exhaust tube configured to slide back and forth relative to the lighting device along a rail. [Figure 115] FIG. 115 is a perspective view showing the sliding smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 114 attached to the lighting devices on both sides of the housing. [Figure 116] FIG. 115 is a perspective view showing the sliding smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 114 attached to the lighting devices on both sides of the housing. [Figure 117]10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a sliding smoke evacuation tube positioned in different positions relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 118] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a sliding smoke evacuation tube positioned in different positions relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 119] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a sliding smoke evacuation tube positioned in different positions relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 120] FIG. 1 is a front view of a surgical instrument, a lighting device, and a sliding smoke exhaust tube. [Figure 121] FIG. 1 is a partial top view of a surgical instrument, a lighting device, and a sliding smoke evacuation tube. [Figure 122] 122 is a cross-sectional view taken along line NN in FIG. 121. [Figure 123] FIG. 115 is a perspective view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 124] 124 to 127 are a top view, a left side view, a front view, and a right side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 125] 124 to 127 are a top view, a left side view, a front view, and a right side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 126] 124 to 127 are a top view, a left side view, a front view, and a right side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 127] 124 to 127 are a top view, a left side view, a front view, and a right side view of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 128] 127 is an enlarged local view of region P obtained from FIG. 126. [Figure 129] 115 is a perspective view of the distal portion of the sliding smoke evacuation tube shown in FIG. 114, including the suction inlet. [Figure 130] FIG. 1 is a front view of the suction inlet of the smoke evacuation pipe. [Figure 131] 131 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 130. [Figure 132] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another smoke evacuation pipe of the present invention separated from a lighting device. [Figure 133] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a smoke exhaust tube attached to a lighting device housing by an adhesive strap. [Figure 134] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a smoke exhaust tube attached to a lighting device housing by an adhesive strap. [Figure 135] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a smoke exhaust tube attached to a lighting device housing by an adhesive strap. [Figure 136] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a smoke evacuation tube attached to a lighting device and positioned in different positions relative to the lighting device housing to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 137] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a smoke evacuation tube attached to a lighting device and positioned in different positions relative to the lighting device housing to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 138] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a smoke evacuation tube attached to a lighting device and positioned in different positions relative to the lighting device housing to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 139] FIG. 10 is a partial top view showing the smoke exhaust tube attached with a strap to the lighting device. [Figure 140] FIG. 10 is a partial bottom view showing the smoke exhaust tube strapped to the lighting device. [Figure 141] FIG. 1 is a front view of a surgical instrument, a lighting device, and a smoke evacuation tube with strap. [Figure 142] 133 is a perspective view of the distal portion of the strapped smoke evacuation tube shown in FIG. 132, including the suction inlet. [Figure 143] FIG. 143 is a front view of the suction inlet of the smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 142. [Figure 144] FIG. 144 is a cross-sectional view taken along line SS in FIG. 143. [Figure 145]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical lighting device attached to a surgical instrument and shown with a smoke exhaust tube separated from the lighting device, the smoke exhaust tube configured to gradually slide back and forth relative to the lighting device along a ratchet rack that interacts with a pawl associated with the lighting device housing. [Figure 146] FIG. 146 is a perspective view showing the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 145 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 147] FIG. 146 is a perspective view showing the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 145 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 148] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and smoke evacuation tubes incrementally positioned at different locations relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 149] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and smoke evacuation tubes incrementally positioned at different locations relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 150] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and smoke evacuation tubes incrementally positioned at different locations relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 151] FIG. 10 is a partial top view showing the smoke exhaust pipe attached to the lighting device with the locking pawl engaged in the toothed rack. [Figure 152] FIG. 10 is a partial bottom view showing a smoke exhaust pipe attached to a lighting device. [Figure 153] FIG. 152 is a front view of the surgical instrument, lighting device, and smoke exhaust tube shown in FIG. 151. [Fig. 154] 152 is an enlarged local view of region U. [Figure 155] 152 is a cross-sectional view taken along line TT in FIG. 151. [Figure 156] 156-158 are front, bottom, and side views of the lighting assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 157]156-158 are front, bottom, and side views of the lighting assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 158] 156-158 are front, bottom, and side views of the lighting assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 159] This is an enlarged local view of region V obtained from Figure 156. [Figure 160] This is an enlarged local view of the area W obtained from FIG. 157. [Figure 161] FIG. 146 is a perspective view of the distal portion of the smoke evacuation tube shown in FIG. 145. [Figure 162] 162 and 163 are front and side views of the suction inlet of the smoke evacuation pipe shown in FIG. [Figure 163] 162 and 163 are front and side views of the suction inlet of the smoke evacuation pipe shown in FIG. [Fig. 164] This is an enlarged local view of area Y obtained from FIG. 162. [Figure 165] 163 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 162. [Figure 166] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical lighting device attached to a surgical instrument and shown with a smoke exhaust tube separated from the lighting device, the smoke exhaust tube configured to gradually translate back and forth relative to the lighting device along a gear rack that interacts with a pinion gear associated with the lighting device housing. [Figure 167] FIG. 167 is a perspective view showing the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 166 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 168] FIG. 167 is a perspective view showing the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 166 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 169] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and smoke evacuation tubes incrementally positioned at different locations relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 170] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and smoke evacuation tubes incrementally positioned at different locations relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 171] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and smoke evacuation tubes incrementally positioned at different locations relative to the housing of the illumination device to complement the different electrodes. [Fig. 172] FIG. 167 is a front view of the surgical instruments, lighting system, and smoke exhaust tube shown in FIG. 166. [Figure 173] This is an enlarged local view of area Z obtained from FIG. 172. [Fig. 174] FIG. 10 is a partial side view showing a smoke exhaust pipe attached to a lighting device with a gear rack and pinion co-engaged; [Figure 175] FIG. 10 is a partial top view showing a smoke exhaust pipe mounted on a lighting device with a gear rack and pinion co-engaged; [Figure 176] 176 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA-AA in FIG. 175. [Figure 177] FIG. 167 is a perspective view of the distal portion of the smoke evacuation tube shown in FIG. 166; [Figure 178] 162 and 163 are front and side views of the suction inlet of the smoke evacuation pipe shown in FIG. [Figure 179] 162 and 163 are front and side views of the suction inlet of the smoke evacuation pipe shown in FIG. [Figure 180] FIG. 178 is a bottom view of the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 177. [Figure 181] FIG. 179 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AB-AB in FIG. 178. [Figure 182] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical lighting device shown with a smoke exhaust tube attached to a surgical instrument and separated from the lighting device, the smoke exhaust tube including a telescoping distal portion that moves relative to the tube by means of a screw thread. [Figure 183] FIG. 183 is a perspective view showing the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 182 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 184] FIG. 183 is a perspective view showing the smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 182 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 185]10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a retractable smoke evacuation tube positioned in different positions relative to the housing of the lighting device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 186] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a retractable smoke evacuation tube positioned in different positions relative to the housing of the lighting device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 187] 10A-10C are perspective views showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths and a retractable smoke evacuation tube positioned in different positions relative to the housing of the lighting device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 188] FIG. 183 is a front view of the surgical instrument, lighting device, and retractable smoke exhaust tube shown in FIG. 182. [Figure 189] FIG. 10 is a partial side view showing a telescoping smoke exhaust pipe attached to a lighting device. [Figure 190] FIG. 10 is a partial top view showing the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe attached to the lighting device. [Figure 191] 191 and 192 are front views of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 192] 191 and 192 are front views of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 193] FIG. 183 is an exploded perspective view of the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 182. [Figure 194] FIG. 183 is a perspective view of the retractable smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 182 when assembled. [Figure 195] 195 and 196 are front and side views of the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. [Figure 196] 195 and 196 are front and side views of the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. [Figure 197] 197 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AC-AC in FIG. 196. [Figure 198] This is an enlarged local view of area AD obtained from FIG. 197. [Figure 199] FIG. 194 is a perspective view of the telescopic portion of the smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 193. [Figure 200]FIG. 199 is a front view of the suction inlet of the tube shown in FIG. [Figure 201] 194 is a perspective view of the distal body portion of the telescoping smoke evacuation tube shown in FIG. 193; FIG. [Figure 202] FIG. 202 is a front view of the distal body portion of the telescoping smoke evacuation tube shown in FIG. 201. [Figure 203] 203 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AE-AE in FIG. 202. [Figure 204] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical lighting device shown with a smoke exhaust tube attached to a surgical instrument and separated from the lighting device, the smoke exhaust tube including multiple telescopic sections that are extendable and retractable. [Figure 205] FIG. 205 is a perspective view showing the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 204 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 206] FIG. 205 is a perspective view showing the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe of FIG. 204 attached to a lighting device on both sides of the housing. [Figure 207] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths, and a retractable smoke evacuation tube extending to different locations relative to the housing of the lighting device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 208] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths, and a retractable smoke evacuation tube extending to different locations relative to the housing of the lighting device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 209] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a surgical instrument having electrodes of different types and lengths, and a retractable smoke evacuation tube extending to different locations relative to the housing of the lighting device to complement the different electrodes. [Figure 210] FIG. 205 is a front view of the surgical instrument, lighting device, and retractable smoke exhaust tube shown in FIG. 204. [Figure 211] FIG. 10 is a partial top view showing the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe attached to the lighting device. [Figure 212] 212 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 211 taken along the line AF-AF. [Figure 213] 213 and 214 are front views of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 214] 213 and 214 are front views of the lighting device shown in FIG. [Figure 215] FIG. 205 is an exploded perspective view of the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 204. [Figure 216] FIG. 205 is a perspective view of the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 204. [Figure 217] FIG. 217 is a front plan view of the telescopic smoke exhaust pipe shown in FIG. 216. [Figure 218] 218 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AG-AG in FIG. 217. [Figure 219] This is an enlarged local view of the area AE obtained from Figure 218. [Figure 220] FIG. 217 is a side view of the telescoping smoke vent pipe shown in FIG. 216 in a fully extended position. [Figure 221] 221 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AJ-AJ in FIG. 220. [Figure 222] This is an enlarged local view of area AK in Figure 221. [Figure 223] This is an enlarged local view of area AL in FIG. 221. [Figure 224] This is an enlarged local view of area AM in Figure 221. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] 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.

[0037] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify like structural elements of various embodiments of the present invention, in Figure 1 there is shown an illumination device 20 having an internal smoke exhaust passageway 8. The illumination device 20 is adapted and configured to be attached to a surgical instrument 10, preferably at its distal end, as shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 3, an elongated smoke exhaust tube 30 connects the proximal end of the internal smoke exhaust passageway 8 of the illumination device 20 to a suction source such as a smoke evacuator or pump (not shown).

[0038] 4-12, illumination device 20 has a generally rectangular housing with opposing proximal and distal ends defined by left and right housing components 2 and 2'. As best shown in FIG. 12, the housing of illumination device 20 defines an interior chamber that houses a battery-powered light assembly for illuminating a surgical site. The light assembly includes a printed circuit board 28 having at least one or two integrated or embedded LED light components 32, a mechanical switching mechanism 26, and a battery cell 24. A concave lens 6 is disposed at the distal end of the housing to direct light source 32.

[0039] A push button actuator 4 is associated with the housing portion 2 for manually actuating a switching mechanism 26 that controls the battery-powered light assembly. The housing defined by the left and right housing components 2 and 2' includes an internal smoke exhaust passageway 8 defined by left and right passageway portions 8 and 8', as best seen in FIG. 11 . The smoke exhaust passageway 8 is separated from the housing's internal chamber by an interior wall 5. The smoke exhaust passageway 8 extends from an inlet located adjacent the distal end of the housing to an outlet or connecting fitting 18, 18' located adjacent the proximal end of the housing. The connecting fitting 18 enables an elongated smoke exhaust tube 30 to connect the smoke exhaust passageway 8 to a suction source, such as a smoke evacuator (not shown).

[0040] 6-10, the illumination device 20 includes a clamping mechanism 12 for selectively attaching the illumination device to a surgical instrument, as seen in FIG. 2. The clamping mechanism 12 includes a generally U-shaped clamp body having a pair of opposing, parallel clamping arms 12' and 12''. An adjustable retention screw 16 is associated with the clamping arm 12', the inner surface of which has a compliant material plate 14 thereon for tightly engaging the geometry of the surgical instrument 10. The clamping mechanism 12 is pivotally connected to the housings 2, 2' about a pivot axis defined by a pin 22 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated housing 2 to adjust the angle of the illumination device 20 light relative to the distal end of the surgical instrument 10 so as to intersect with the distal tip of the instrument. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that other mechanical clamping mechanisms, such as, for example, a spring-loaded clamp, can be used to attach the illumination device to a surgical instrument. Alternatively, other types of attachment means, such as, for example, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesive tape, etc., can be used.

[0041] It is contemplated that a filter element may be disposed within the smoke exhaust passageway 8 or within the smoke exhaust tube 30 to filter debris and / or contaminants from the air passing from the surgical site. It is also contemplated that the internal smoke exhaust passageway 8 may have a rectangular cross-sectional configuration as shown in FIG. 4, or that the internal smoke exhaust passageway may have a square cross-sectional configuration, an oval cross-sectional configuration, a circular cross-sectional configuration, or any other known and / or easily manufactured shaped cross-sectional configuration.

[0042] 13 and 14, there is shown another embodiment of a lighting device, generally designated 40, having an external smoke exhaust passageway 15. The external smoke exhaust passageway 15 is located outside the main housing 52, 52' of the lighting device 40 and is separated from the internal chamber by the outer wall of the housing. As shown in FIG. 15, an elongated smoke exhaust tube 50 connects a fitting 56 at the proximal end of the external smoke exhaust passageway 15 of the lighting device 40 to a suction source such as a pump or smoke evacuator (not shown).

[0043] 18-25, illumination device 40 includes an adjustable clamping mechanism 12 substantially identical to clamping mechanism 12 of illumination device 20 to facilitate selective attachment of illumination device 40 to the distal end of surgical instrument 10. Illumination device 40 also includes a battery-powered illumination assembly having a printed circuit board 58 with an embedded LED light source 32, a battery cell 24, and a switch 26 controlled by activation button 4. Lens 6 is disposed in a retention slot in the distal end of housing 52, 52' adjacent to LED light source 32.

[0044] The lighting device 40 also includes an internal rotating fan 54 located near the distal entrance of the external smoke exhaust passage 15. The fan 54 may be configured to direct airflow from the smoke exhaust passage 15 or to draw airflow into the smoke exhaust passage 15. The fan 54 is electrically connected to a printed circuit board 58 and is powered by the lighting assembly's battery 24 housed within the two-part rectangular housing 52, 52' of the lighting device 40.

[0045] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that multiple fans or microfans may be disposed within the external smoke exhaust passage 15 of the lighting device 40. It should also be understood that one or more fans may similarly be disposed within the internal smoke exhaust passage 8 of the lighting device 20 described above.

[0046] 25, the filter element 62 is positioned near the proximal end of the external smoke exhaust passageway 15 of the lighting device 40. The filter element 62 may comprise carbon or activated carbon, may be a single layer or a multi-layer composite, and may include mesh, paper, or other filter layers that may be hydrophobic.

[0047] 26-45, there is shown another surgical lighting device, designated by the reference numeral 510, for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 in cooperation with a removable smoke exhaust assembly 520. As will be described in more detail below, the lighting device 510 includes sliding engagement structures 512, 512' for facilitating attachment of the smoke exhaust assembly 520 to the right wall of the lighting device 510, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, and to the left wall of the lighting device 510, as shown in FIG. 29.

[0048] The smoke exhaust assembly 520 includes an inlet nozzle 506 defining a smoke exhaust passageway disposed adjacent the distal end of the lighting device 510. An elongated smoke exhaust conduit 508 extends from a proximal outlet 516 of the inlet nozzle 506 for communication with a smoke evacuator or pump. As best seen in FIG. 32 , a sliding connector 514 extends from a bottom surface of the inlet nozzle 506 for engaging one of interface connectors 512 and 512′ located on the left and right sidewalls of the lighting device 510 (see also FIG. 40 ). As shown, for example, in FIGS. 38 through 45 , the sliding connector 514 includes a slotted tongue 522 for interacting with a groove 518 formed in the sliding connectors 512 and 512′.

[0049] 33-37 , the illumination device 510 includes a generally conical housing 504 having a substantially flat upper surface 505 to allow an unobstructed line of sight for a surgeon utilizing the surgical instrument 10. The housing 504 has an internal cavity that supports an illumination assembly, which includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced, embedded LED light sources 548, a battery cell 544, and a printed circuit board 546 having a switching mechanism 562. A lens 540 is disposed at the distal end of the housing 504 adjacent or near the LED light sources 548. An engagement collar 552 having a cooperating spring 554 is operably associated with the housing 504 of the illumination device 510 to engage the distal end of the surgical instrument 10 when the surgical instrument 10 is received within the internal cavity 556 of the illumination device 510.

[0050] In use, when the distal end of electrosurgical instrument 10 is inserted into conical alignment sleeve 556 within the interior cavity of illumination device 510, the distal end of instrument 10 bends downward to contact the foot of a flexible cantilever that contacts switching mechanism 562, illuminating the LED light source. At such point, the distal end of the instrument is mechanically retained by spring-loaded engagement collar 552. As a result, a surgeon using instrument 10 can incise tissue while illumination device 510 and its smoke exhaust assemblies 520 mounted on either side thereof illuminate and remove smoke from the surgical site.

[0051] 46-60, there is shown yet another surgical lighting device, designated generally by the reference numeral 530, for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 in cooperation with a removable smoke exhaust assembly 550. As will be described in more detail below, the housing 532 of the lighting device 530 includes snap-fit ​​engagement structures 528, 528′ to facilitate attachment of the smoke exhaust assembly 550 to the right wall of the housing 532, as shown in FIG. 48, or the left wall of the housing 532, as shown in FIG. 49.

[0052] The smoke exhaust assembly 550 includes an inlet nozzle 524 defining a smoke exhaust passageway disposed adjacent the distal end of a housing 532. An elongated smoke exhaust conduit 508 extends from a proximal outlet 526 of the inlet nozzle 524 for communication with a smoke evacuator or pump. As best seen in FIG. 52 , a snap-fit ​​connector 536 extends from a bottom surface of the inlet nozzle 524 for engaging snap-fit ​​connectors 528 and 528′ on the left and right side walls of the housing 532 of the lighting device 530. As shown, for example, in FIGS. 53 through 60 , the snap-fit ​​connector 536 includes a pair of deflectable legs 536′ and 536″ for interlocking with or otherwise engaging complementary grooves 534, 534′ of the sliding connectors 528, 528′.

[0053] 61-70, there is shown another embodiment of a detachable smoke exhaust assembly, generally designated by the reference numeral 560, for use with a lighting device 510. The smoke exhaust assembly 560 includes an inlet nozzle 506 and an elongated smoke exhaust tube 566. The inlet nozzle 506 is adapted and configured to attach to the housing 504 of the lighting device 510, as described in detail above.

[0054] A retaining clip 568 is operably positioned along the length of the tube 566, as shown in Figures 69 and 70, to selectively engage the proximal end of the surgical instrument 10 for use with the surgical instrument 10 (see Figure 65). The retaining clip 568 includes a pair of barbed retaining legs 568' and 568'' that serve to hold the tube 566 in a fixed position so as not to interfere with the performance of the surgical procedure.

[0055] A barbed connector fitting 564 is operably disposed at the proximal end of the smoke evacuator tube 566 for communication with a smoke evacuator or pump. Other types of connectors or fittings may also be utilized. As best seen in FIG. 68 , a filter element 572 is disposed with a central passageway in the connector fitting 564 for filtering smoke-laden air passing under suction by the smoke evacuator or pump. The filter element 572 may be formed from carbon, activated charcoal, or a similar filtration medium.

[0056] 71-77, another embodiment of a removable smoke exhaust assembly 580 is shown for use with an illumination device 570 used with a handheld surgical instrument 10. The smoke exhaust assembly 580 includes an inlet nozzle 576, an elongated smoke exhaust tube 582, and an adhesive strip 578. The adhesive strip 578 extends at least partially around the periphery of the housing 574 of the illumination device 570 and is sized and configured to securely secure the nozzle 576 thereto.

[0057] 78-86, another embodiment of an illumination device 590 is shown having an external smoke exhaust passageway 588 formed integrally with the housing 584 of the illumination device 590 for use with a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10. The smoke exhaust passageway 588 can have any type of cross-sectional configuration, but as shown here has a generally oval cross-sectional configuration and extends from an inlet adjacent the distal end of the housing 584 to an outlet 592 adjacent to or near the proximal end of the housing 584. A smoke exhaust conduit 586 connects with the outlet 592 to allow communication with a smoke evacuator or pump, as best shown in FIG.

[0058] As best seen in FIG. 86 , the illumination device 590 has an internal cavity with a conical alignment sleeve 556 and an illumination assembly including a printed circuit board 546 having a plurality of embedded LED light sources 548, a battery cell (not shown), and a switching mechanism 562. A lens 540 is disposed at the distal end of the housing 584, and a spacer 542 is disposed between the lens 540 and the light sources 548 on the printed circuit board 546. An engagement collar 552 having a cooperating spring 554 is operably associated with the internal cavity 556 of the illumination device 590 to engage the distal end of the surgical instrument 10 when received within the internal cavity 556 of the illumination device 590.

[0059] In use, when the distal end of electrosurgical instrument 10 is inserted into sleeve 556 within the internal cavity of illumination device 590, the distal end of instrument 10 contacts the flexible member and pushes it downward to engage switching mechanism 562 and illuminate LED light source 548. At such time, the distal end of instrument 10 is mechanically retained by spring-loaded engagement collar 552. As a result, a surgeon using electrosurgical instrument 10 can use illumination device 590 and its external smoke exhaust passageway 588, integrally formed with housing 584, to illuminate and remove smoke from the surgical site while cutting tissue.

[0060] 87-89, there is shown a cylindrical or tubular smoke evacuation inlet nozzle 602 having a distal inlet portion 602 and a proximal outlet portion 606 sized and configured to communicate with the smoke evacuation tube 586. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the inlet nozzle 602 can be used as an alternative nozzle mechanism for any of the smoke evacuation assemblies described and illustrated herein.

[0061] 90-93, there is shown another smoke evacuation inlet nozzle 605 including a rear body portion 608 configured to communicate with the smoke evacuation conduit 586 and a multi-orifice front body portion 612 configured to distribute suction over a distance to better draw surgical smoke to cover a larger area of ​​the surgical field. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the multi-orifice nozzle-like nozzle 605 shown in FIG. 90 can be used as an alternative nozzle mechanism for any of the smoke evacuation assemblies described and illustrated herein.

[0062] 94-97, there is shown a kit for performing a surgical procedure with a handheld surgical instrument including a packaging enclosure 610 configured to hold the battery-powered lighting device 510 shown in Figures 61 and 62 and a removable smoke exhaust assembly 560. The smoke exhaust assembly 560 includes the nozzle inlet 506, an elongated tube 566 having a proximal connector 564, and a clip 568 for attachment to the proximal end of the handheld surgical instrument.

[0063] 98-99, another kit for performing a surgical procedure is shown that includes a packaging enclosure 620 configured to hold a battery-powered illumination device 510, a smoke evacuation assembly 560 for attachment to the illumination device 510, and a handheld electrocautery device 100 (such as a BOVIE® pencil) to which the illumination device 510 is attached to illuminate the surgical site without unduly obstructing the surgeon's line of sight. The kit allows the surgeon to perform an electrocautery procedure and evacuate the smoke while illuminating the surgical site.

[0064] 100-107, there is shown yet another embodiment of an illumination device having an integral smoke exhaust assembly, generally designated by reference numeral 710, which is also designed for use with handheld electrosurgical instrument 10. Illumination device 710 includes a generally conical housing 702 including integral left and right smoke exhaust passages 706' and 706" respectively. Each smoke exhaust passage has an inlet 708' and 708" adjacent to or near the distal end of housing 702 for drawing smoke, and an outlet barb 704' and 704" adjacent to or near the proximal end of housing 702 for communicating with a smoke exhaust conduit 720.

[0065] As best seen in FIG. 107 , the illumination device 710 has an internal cavity with a conical alignment sleeve 556 and an illumination assembly including a printed circuit board 546 with one or more embedded LED light sources and one or more battery cells 544. A lens 540 is disposed at the distal end of the housing 702. In use, performing a surgical procedure with the illumination device 710 includes attaching the illumination device 710 to the distal end of the surgical instrument 10, activating the LED light source, and then connecting the outlet 704 of one of the smoke exhaust passages 706′ or 706″ to a suction source via a smoke exhaust conduit 720. If necessary, to prevent obstruction of the surgical site by the smoke exhaust conduit 720 during the procedure, the method further includes the steps of removing the smoke exhaust conduit 720 from one of the smoke exhaust passages 706' or 706" and reattaching the smoke exhaust conduit 720 to the other smoke exhaust passage 706' or 706", as shown in Figures 102 and 103.

[0066] 108-113, there is shown an illumination device 730 for use with a handheld surgical instrument 10 having three separate mounting locations (it is envisioned that there may be more than three mounting locations) for engaging an inlet nozzle 506 of a detachable smoke exhaust assembly having an elongated smoke exhaust tube 508 for communication with a smoke evacuator or pump (not shown). More specifically, as best seen in FIG. 110, the generally conical housing 732 of the illumination device 730 includes a first mounting flange 512 on the right side of the housing 732, a second mounting flange 512′ on the left side of the housing 732, and a third mounting flange 512″ on the bottom of the housing 732.

[0067] It is envisioned that the smoke exhaust assembly inlet nozzle 506 may be mounted in any of three or more positions. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 111-113, multiple smoke exhaust assembly inlet nozzles 506 may be mounted on the housing 732 of the lighting device 730 to increase the smoke exhaust effectiveness of the system.

[0068] 114-131, there is shown an assembly 1100 including an illumination device 1120 for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 to illuminate a surgical site and an associated smoke exhaust conduit 1110 for removing smoke generated at the surgical site. The illumination device 1120 includes an elongated housing 1102 having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an internal chamber containing a battery-powered illumination assembly for illuminating the surgical site. The smoke exhaust conduit 1110 is adapted and configured to extend and retract relative to the distal end of the housing 1102 to accommodate cauterization blades of different lengths or other types of end effectors associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 (i.e., cauterization blades 10A, 10B, 10C), as shown in FIGS.

[0069] The smoke exhaust conduit 1110 includes a proximal body portion 1108 for communicating with a suction source, a distal body portion 1106 having a distal suction inlet for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site, and a proximal connecting barb 1116 for cooperating with the distal end of the proximal body portion 1108. The distal body portion 1106 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1110 includes an elongated track 1118 adapted and configured to slidably cooperate with rails 1114 on the outer wall of the housing 1102.

[0070] The smoke exhaust conduit 1110 can be slidably advanced, moved or adjusted by hand by a user and will stay in a desired position using friction. Preferably, the housing 1102 has rails 1114 on opposite side walls thereof for cooperating with elongated tracks 1118 on the distal body portion 1106 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1110 so that the smoke exhaust conduit 1110 can be associated with either the right or left side of the housing 1102, as shown in Figures 115 and 116.

[0071] 132-144, there is shown an assembly 1200 including a distal body portion 1206 of a smoke exhaust conduit 1220 adapted and configured to be selectively attached to a housing 1204 of an illumination device 1210 at locations along its length by an adhesive band or strap 1202. The distal body portion 1206 has a distal suction inlet 1214 for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site and a proximal connecting barb 1212 for cooperating with the distal end of the proximal body portion 1208 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1220, more particularly for connecting to tubing associated with a suction source and providing a good seal.

[0072] The strap 1202 can be configured as a hook-and-loop fastener, a cable tie, or the like. As shown in FIGS. 136 through 139 , a user can position the smoke exhaust tube 1220 at an appropriate distance and secure the strap 1202 or apply adhesive to accommodate different lengths of cautery blades or other types of end effectors associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 (i.e., cautery blades 10A, 10B, 10C). The user can then remove the strap 1202 or break the adhesive, adjust the position of the tube assembly 1220, and reattach it to the housing 1204 of the illumination device 1210.

[0073] 145-165 , there is shown an assembly 1300 in which a distal body portion 1304 of a smoke exhaust tube 1320 includes an elongated ratchet rack 1312 adapted and configured to cooperate with a deflectable pawl 1308 or teeth associated with an outer wall of a housing 1302 of a lighting device 1310. More specifically, the ratchet rack 1314 includes a plurality of teeth, and the deflectable pawl 1308 has rigid locking teeth 1316 for interacting with the teeth of the rack 1314 when the distal body portion 1304 moves relative to the housing 1302 of the lighting device 1310.

[0074] The pawl 1308 acts like a spring to pinch the distal body portion 1304 of the smoke vent tube 1320 against the housing 1302 of the lighting device 1310. A user can flex the pawl 1308 outward to position, move or adjust the position of the smoke vent tube 1320 and then release the pawl 1308 so that it returns down and the teeth 1316 can pinch into specific grooves between the teeth of the ratchet rack 1314 of the distal body portion 1304, holding it in place. The housing 1302 of the lighting device 1310 also adds side rails 1312 to contribute to stability.

[0075] Preferably, the housing 1302 of the illumination device 1310 has deflectable pawls 1308 on opposing side walls thereof for cooperating with elongated ratchet racks 1314 on the distal body portion 1304 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1320, such that the smoke exhaust conduit 1320 can be associated with either the right or left side of the housing 1302, as shown in FIGS. 146 and 147. In use, the smoke exhaust conduit 1320 can be telescopic relative to the distal end of the housing 1302 of the illumination device 1310 to accommodate cauterization blades of different lengths or other types of end effectors associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 (i.e., cauterization blades 10A, 10B, 10C), as shown in FIGS.

[0076] As best seen in FIGS. 161-165, the distal body portion 1304 has a distal suction inlet 1322 for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site and a proximal connecting barb 1318 for cooperating with the distal end of the proximal body portion 1306 of the smoke exhaust tube 1320, more particularly for connecting to a tube associated with a suction source and providing a good seal.

[0077] 166-181 , there is shown an assembly 1400 in which a distal body portion 1406 of a smoke exhaust conduit 1420 includes an elongated gear rack 1414 adapted and configured to cooperate with a rotatable pinion gear 1404 or teeth associated with the outer wall of a housing 1402 of a lighting device 1410. More particularly, the gear rack 1414 extends along a support track 1412 that protrudes from the outer wall of the housing 1402, and the pinion gear 1404 is supported for rotation on an axle 1416 that extends from the outer wall of the housing 1404. Preferably, the housing 1402 has pinion gears 1404 on opposite side walls thereof to cooperate with the elongated gear rack 1414 of the distal body portion 1406 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1420 so that the smoke exhaust conduit 1420 can be associated with either the right or left side of the housing 1402, as shown in FIGS.

[0078] As best seen in Figures 177-181, the distal body portion 1406 has a distal suction inlet for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site and a proximal connecting barb 1418 for cooperating with the distal end of the proximal body portion 1408 of a smoke exhaust tube 1420, more particularly for connecting to a tube associated with a suction source and providing a good seal. As best seen in Figure 178, the gear rack 1414 is formed as an I-beam structure 1422 for engaging the support rail 1412.

[0079] In use, a user can rotate the pinion gear 1404 to advance the smoke exhaust conduit 1420 distally or rotate it in the opposite direction to retract it proximally. The smoke exhaust conduit 1420 can be telescopic relative to the distal end of the housing 1402 of the illumination device 1410 to accommodate different lengths of cautery blades or other types of end effectors associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 (i.e., cautery blades 10A, 10B, 10C), as shown in FIGS.

[0080] It is envisioned that the smoke exhaust pipe assembly may utilize two pinion gears instead of a single gear and support rail. It is also envisioned that the smoke exhaust pipe assembly may utilize a friction wheel and linear friction surface instead of a pinion gear and linear gear rack.

[0081] 182-203, an assembly 1500 is shown in which a distal body portion 1504 of a smoke evacuation tube 1520 includes a telescoping inner tube 1506 that is telescoping relative to the distal body portion 1504 by axial rotation via a helical thread to provide a suction inlet. More specifically, as best seen in FIGS. 197 and 198, the internal bore of the distal body portion 1504 includes an inwardly projecting boss 1516 for cooperation with a helical groove 1522 formed in the inner tube 1506.

[0082] The outer surface of the distal body portion 1504 is provided with a mounting flange 1514 for engaging a rail 1512 on the outer wall of the housing 1502 of the lighting device 1510. Preferably, the housing 1502 has rails 1512 on opposite side walls thereof for engaging the mounting flange 1514 on the distal body portion 1504 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1520, so that the smoke exhaust conduit 1520 can be associated with either the right or left side of the housing 1502, as shown in FIGS.

[0083] In use, a user can rotate the inner tube 1506 relative to the distal body portion 1505 to advance the inner tube 1506 distally or rotate it in the opposite direction to retract the inner tube 1506 proximally. The inner tube 1506 can be telescopic relative to the distal end of the housing 1502 of the illumination device 1510 to accommodate different lengths of cauterizing blades associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 (i.e., cauterizing blades 10A, 10B, 10C), as shown in FIGS.

[0084] As best seen in Figures 201-203, the distal body portion 1504 has a proximal connecting barb 1418 for cooperating with the distal end of the proximal body portion 1508 of the smoke evacuation tube 1520, more specifically for connecting to a tube associated with a suction source to provide a good seal.

[0085] Referring to Figures 204-224, an assembly 1600 is shown in which a distal body portion 1606 of a smoke exhaust tube 1620 is extendable relative to the distal body portion 1606 and includes multiple graduated extendable inner tubular members (1608 and 1612) that provide a distal suction inlet.

[0086] The outer surface of the distal body portion 1606 is provided with a mounting flange 1618 for engaging with a rail 1616 on the outer wall of the housing 1602 of the lighting device 1610. Preferably, the housing 1602 has rails 1616 on opposing side walls thereof for engaging with the mounting flanges 1618 on the distal body portion 1606 of the smoke exhaust conduit 1620, so that the smoke exhaust conduit 1620 can be associated with either the right or left side of the housing 1602, as shown in FIGS.

[0087] In use, a user can advance the incrementally extending and retracting inner tubular members 1608 and 1612 distally or proximally relative to the distal end of the housing 1602 of the illumination device 1610 to accommodate different length cauterization blades associated with the handheld electrosurgical instrument 10 (i.e., cauterization blades 10A, 10B, 10C), as shown in Figures 207-209.

[0088] 212 and 215-224, the distal body portion 1606 has a proximal connection barb 1632 for cooperating with the distal end of the proximal body portion 1614 of the smoke evacuation conduit 1620, more specifically for connecting to a conduit associated with a suction source to provide a good seal. The proximal end of the inner tubular member 1612 also has an internal stop flange 1624 for cooperating with an external stop flange 1626 on the distal end of the inner tubular member 1608 (see FIG. 223), and the proximal end of the inner tubular member 1608 has an internal stop flange 1622 for cooperating with an external stop flange 1628 on the distal end of the distal body portion 1606 (see FIG. 224). The distal end of the inner tubular member 1612 includes a distal suction inlet 1604, best seen in FIG. 222.

[0089] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present disclosure provides a smoke evacuation solution for multiple cautery blade or end effector tip lengths. Thus, if a surgeon changes from a 2-inch to a 4-inch or 6-inch cautery blade, loop, or needle, the length of the smoke evacuation tube assembly can easily be adjusted to accommodate the end effector length. As a result, smoke can be evacuated closest to the ablation site before more widespread smoke dispersion. Furthermore, if significant smoke dispersion occurs, lighting that would otherwise be helpful during surgery can obstruct visualization by illuminating the smoke cloud, creating associated visualization challenges.

[0090] The smoke exhaust tube assembly disclosed herein also provides the surgeon with a clear line of sight. At certain angles, the surgeon may need to retract the smoke exhaust tip proximally if it obstructs their view of the blade tip, including, for example, while performing a surgical incision in a tight space or narrow access. With a smoke exhaust element offset from the active cauterizing blade as disclosed herein, not only does visualization of the incision site improve due to reduced physical obstruction, but cauterizing smoke is drawn away from the active site into the exhaust mechanism. Furthermore, improved illumination under these conditions improves visualization of the cauterizing activity. It is also envisioned that the smoke exhaust tube assembly may be made from a clear plastic material to improve visualization.

[0091] The smoke evacuator assembly disclosed herein also provides improved surgical access. When operating within a narrow cavity, the surgeon may only have enough space to access the tip and may need to retract the smoke evacuator to allow the device to become small enough to fit into the cavity. Having the flexibility to move the position of the smoke evacuator tip allows the surgeon flexibility in different spaces.

[0092] The smoke evacuation pipe assemblies disclosed herein may have a cylindrical or rounded cross-sectional configuration, as shown, however, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the cross-sectional shape of the smoke evacuation pipe assembly and / or its components may be any other non-cylindrical shape as dictated by the design, including oval, square, polygonal, etc.

[0093] 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 may 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] An illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument, comprising: 1. An illumination device comprising: an elongated housing having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an internal chamber containing an illumination assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the elongated housing having an associated smoke exhaust conduit for removing smoke generated at the surgical site, the smoke exhaust conduit configured to extend and retract relative to the distal end of the housing. [2] The lighting device described in [1], wherein the smoke exhaust tube includes a proximal body portion for communicating with a suction source and a distal body portion having a distal suction inlet and a proximal connecting barb for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site. [3] The lighting device of [2], wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes an elongated track adapted and configured to slidably cooperate with a complementary structure on the outer wall of the housing. [4] The lighting device of [3], wherein the housing has structure on opposing side walls for cooperating with the elongated track of the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe. [5] The lighting device of [2], wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe is adapted and configured to be selectively attached to the housing at positions along its length by adhesive or fasteners. [6] The lighting device of [2], wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes an elongated ratchet rack configured to cooperate with a deflectable pawl associated with an outer wall of the housing. [7] The lighting device of [6], wherein the housing has deflectable pawls on opposing side walls thereof for cooperating with the elongated ratchet racks on the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust tube. [8] The lighting device described in [2], wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes an elongated gear rack configured to cooperate with at least one pinion gear associated with the outer wall of the housing. [9] The lighting device of [8], wherein the housing has at least one pinion gear on an opposing side wall thereof for cooperating with the elongated gear rack of the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe.

[10] The lighting device described in [2], wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes a mounting flange for engaging with a structure of the outer wall of the housing, and the distal body portion includes an expandable inner tube that is expandable and contractible relative to the distal body portion by axial rotation due to a helical thread.

[11] The lighting device of

[10] , wherein the housing has structure on opposing side walls for engaging the mounting flange of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[12] The lighting device described in [2], wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes a mounting flange for engaging with a structure of the outer wall of the housing, and the distal body portion includes a plurality of graduated elastic inner tube members that are expandable and contractible relative to the distal body portion.

[13] The lighting device of

[12] , wherein the housing has structure on opposing side walls for engaging the mounting flange of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[14] The lighting device of [1], wherein the lighting assembly includes a printed circuit board having at least one LED lighting component, at least one battery cell, and a switch for operating the lighting assembly.

[15] The lighting device described in

[14] , wherein the internal chamber of the housing has a conical bore extending from the proximal end of the housing for receiving the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument.

[16] The lighting device described in

[15] , wherein the switch is configured to activate the lighting assembly when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is received in the conical bore and to deactivate the lighting assembly when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is removed from the conical bore.

[17] The lighting device of [1], further comprising at least one filter element operably associated with the smoke exhaust pipe.

[18] An illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument, comprising: 1. A lighting device comprising: an elongated housing having opposed proximal and distal ends and defining an internal chamber containing a battery-powered lighting assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the internal chamber defining a conical bore extending from the proximal end of the housing for receiving a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, the elongated housing having an associated smoke exhaust tube for removing smoke generated at the surgical site, the smoke exhaust tube configured to extend and retract relative to the distal end of the housing.

[19] The lighting device described in

[18] , wherein the lighting assembly is activated when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is received in the conical bore and is not activated when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is removed from the conical bore.

[20] The lighting device of

[18] , wherein the lighting assembly includes a printed circuit board including at least one LED lighting component, at least one battery cell, and a switch for operating the lighting assembly.

[21] The lighting device described in

[18] , wherein the smoke exhaust tube includes a proximal body portion for communicating with a suction source and a distal body portion having a distal suction inlet and a proximal connecting barb for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site.

[22] The lighting device of

[21] , wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes an elongated track configured to slidably cooperate with a rail on an outer wall of the housing.

[23] The lighting device of

[22] , wherein the housing has structure on opposing side walls for cooperating with the elongated track of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[24] The lighting device of

[21] , wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe is adapted and configured to be selectively attached to the housing at positions along its length by adhesive or fasteners.

[25] The lighting device of

[21] , wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes an elongated ratchet rack configured to cooperate with a deflectable pawl associated with an outer wall of the housing.

[26] The lighting device of

[25] , wherein the housing has deflectable pawls on opposing side walls thereof for cooperating with the elongated ratchet racks on the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[27] The lighting device of

[21] , wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes an elongated gear rack configured to cooperate with at least one pinion gear associated with the outer wall of the housing.

[28] The lighting device of

[27] , wherein the housing has at least one pinion gear on an opposing side wall thereof for cooperating with the elongated gear rack on the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe.

[29] The lighting device described in

[21] , wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes a mounting flange for engaging with a structure of the outer wall of the housing, and the distal body portion includes a telescopic inner tube that is telescopic relative to the distal body portion by axial rotation via a helical thread to provide the suction inlet.

[30] The lighting device of

[29] , wherein the housing has structure on opposing side walls for engaging the mounting flange of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[31] The lighting device described in

[21] , wherein the distal body portion of the smoke exhaust pipe includes a mounting flange for engaging with a structure of the outer wall of the housing, and the distal body portion includes a plurality of graduated elastic inner tubular members that are expandable and contractible relative to the distal body portion to provide the suction inlet.

[32] The lighting device of

[31] , wherein the housing has structure on opposing side walls for engaging the mounting flange of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

[33] The lighting device according to

[18] , further comprising at least one filter element operably associated with the smoke exhaust pipe.

[34] A method comprising: a) attaching a smoke exhaust tube to a handheld electrosurgical instrument to remove smoke generated at a surgical site; and b) adjusting the smoke exhaust tube relative to the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument to accommodate end effectors of different lengths installed on the electrosurgical instrument; A method comprising:

[35] The method of

[34] , further comprising the step of attaching an illumination device to a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument to illuminate the surgical site, wherein the step of attaching the smoke exhaust tube includes attaching the smoke exhaust tube to the illumination device.

[36] The method of

[35] , wherein the step of adjusting the smoke exhaust pipe includes extending the smoke exhaust pipe distally relative to a distal end of the lighting device.

[37] The method of

[35] , wherein the step of adjusting the smoke exhaust pipe includes retracting the smoke exhaust pipe proximally relative to the distal end of the lighting device.

Claims

1. 1. An illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a lighting assembly; an elongated housing having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the elongated housing defining an interior chamber containing the illumination assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the elongated housing having a smoke exhaust conduit for removing smoke generated at the surgical site, the smoke exhaust conduit configured to telescope relative to the distal end of the housing; the smoke exhaust tube includes a proximal body portion for communicating with a suction source, and a distal body portion having a distal suction inlet and a proximal connecting barb for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site; The distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes an elongated ratchet rack configured to cooperate with a deflectable pawl on an outer wall of the housing.

2. the housing having a first deflectable pawl on a first side of the housing and a second deflectable pawl on a second side of the housing opposite the first side for cooperating with the elongated ratchet rack of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube; 2. The lighting device of claim 1, wherein the first deflectable claw or the second deflectable claw is the deflectable claw of claim 1. 。

3. 10. The lighting device of claim 1, wherein the lighting assembly includes a printed circuit board having at least one LED lighting component, at least one battery cell, and a switch for activating the lighting assembly.

4. The illumination device of claim 3 , wherein the interior chamber of the housing has a conical bore extending from the proximal end of the housing for receiving a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument.

5. 5. The lighting device of claim 4, wherein the switch is configured to activate the lighting assembly when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is received in the conical bore and to deactivate the lighting assembly when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is removed from the conical bore.

6. 10. The lighting device of claim 1, further comprising at least one filter element operatively associated therewith for filtering air passing through said smoke exhaust conduit.

7. 1. An illumination device for attachment to a handheld electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a battery-powered lighting assembly; an elongated housing having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end, the elongated housing defining an internal chamber for containing the battery-powered illumination assembly for illuminating a surgical site, the internal chamber defining a conical bore extending from the proximal end of the housing for receiving a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, the elongated housing having a smoke exhaust tube for removing smoke generated at the surgical site, the smoke exhaust tube configured to telescope relative to the distal end of the housing; the smoke exhaust tube includes a proximal body portion for communicating with a suction source, and a distal body portion having a distal suction inlet and a proximal connecting barb for receiving smoke generated at the surgical site; the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube includes an elongated gear rack configured to cooperate with at least one pinion gear supported on an outer wall of the housing; Lighting equipment.

8. 8. The lighting device of claim 7, wherein the battery-powered lighting assembly is activated when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is received in the conical bore and is deactivated when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument is removed from the conical bore.

9. 8. The lighting device of claim 7, wherein the battery-powered lighting assembly includes a printed circuit board including at least one LED lighting component, at least one battery cell, and a switch for operating the battery-powered lighting assembly.

10. 8. The lighting device of claim 7, wherein the housing has at least one pinion gear on a side wall facing the elongated gear rack for cooperating with the elongated gear rack of the distal body portion of the smoke evacuation tube.

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