Surgical procedure automation via modular energy systems

Abstract

Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and devices for surgical proceduralization via a modular energy system. In various aspects, the systems, methods, and devices include an energy module, a header module communicatively coupled to the energy module, and a display screen capable of rendering a graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI may be configured to display a number of steps corresponding to actions performed by a user while operating the modular energy system. In some aspects, the displayed steps are steps of a predefined procedure checklist corresponding to a mental model followed by a user while performing a surgical procedure. In some aspects, the displayed steps are steps of an output verification process.

Description

Background Art

[0003] , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to various surgical systems, including modular electro-surgical and / or ultrasonic surgical systems. Due to the number of various devices required to complete each surgical procedure, the operating room (OR) is a complex tangle of cords, devices, and people, so the OR requires a rationalized capital solution. This is the reality of ORs in every market around the world. Since most capital equipment performs one task or job, each type of capital equipment requires its own unique technology or method of use and has its own unique user interface, capital equipment is the main culprit in creating clumps within the OR.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0002] Therefore, there is an unmet consumer need to integrate capital equipment and other surgical technologies in order to improve the efficiency of surgical staff during surgical procedures by reducing the installation area of equipment in the OR, rationalizing the interfaces of the equipment, and reducing the number of devices that the surgical staff needs to operate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] In various embodiments, a modular energy system for use in a surgical environment is disclosed. The system comprises an energy module configured to generate at least one energy modality for driving connected electrosurgical and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments; a header module communicatively coupled to the energy module and having a display screen capable of rendering a GUI; and a storage device configured to record event data relating to the operation of the energy module, wherein the modular energy system can detect which events in the event data are related to a surgical procedure based on the detection of a predetermined set of events, and the event data is organized into an event log based on the detection of events related to the surgical procedure.

[0005] In various embodiments, an output verification key device is disclosed. The device comprises a first side comprising a neutral electrode plug connected to the neutral electrode port of an energy module and an advanced energy plug connected to the advanced energy port of an energy module; a second side comprising a neutral key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the neutral electrode port; a unipolar key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the unipolar energy modality of the advanced energy port; a bipolar key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the bipolar energy modality of the advanced energy port; and an ultrasonic key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the ultrasonic energy modality of the advanced energy port. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] The various embodiments described herein with respect to both configuration and operation methods, along with their other further purposes and advantages, can be best understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1]This is a block diagram of a computer-implemented interactive surgical system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] A surgical system used to perform surgical procedures in an operating room, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 3] A visualization system, a robotic system, and a surgical hub paired with an intelligent instrument, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] A surgical system comprising a generator and various surgical instruments usable with the generator, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a diagram of a situational awareness surgical system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a diagram of various modules and other components that can be combined to customize a modular energy system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] A configuration of a first exemplary modular energy system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, includes a header module and a display screen representing a graphical user interface (GUI) for relaying information about modules connected to the header module. [Figure 7B] A modular energy system, as shown in Figure 7A, mounted on a cart, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 8A] A second exemplary modular energy system configuration, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, includes a header module connected together and mounted on a cart, a display screen, an energy module, and an expansion energy module. [Figure 8B] A third exemplary modular energy system configuration, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, is similar to the second configuration shown in Figure 7A, except that the header module lacks a display screen. [Figure 9]A fourth exemplary modular energy system configuration, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, includes a header module connected together and mounted on a cart, a display screen, an energy module, an expansion energy module, and a technology module. [Figure 10] A fifth exemplary modular energy system configuration, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, includes a header module connected together and mounted on a cart, a display screen, an energy module, an expansion energy module, a technology module, and a visualization module. [Figure 11] This is a diagram of a modular energy system including a transmissibly connectable surgical platform, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of a header module of a modular energy system including a user interface, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This is a block diagram of a standalone hub configuration of a modular energy system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram of a hub configuration of a modular energy system integrated with a surgical control system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram of a modular energy system stack showing a power backplane, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram of a modular energy system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] A flowchart of a process for organizing data collected during a surgical procedure, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 18] An exemplary modular energy system, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure, that displays the current step of a predetermined checklist. [Figure 19]An exemplary modular energy system is shown according to at least one aspect of this disclosure, which displays all steps of a predetermined checklist. [Figure 20] An exemplary modular energy system configured for voice activation is shown according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 21] An exemplary display screen configured for voice activation, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] An exemplary display screen for a modular energy system that displays usage pattern data related to a specific surgical procedure, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] An exemplary display screen for a modular energy system that displays exemplary user profile usage pattern data across multiple surgical procedures, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] An exemplary display screen for a modular energy system showing the cross-sectional time of an exemplary surgical procedure, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] An exemplary display screen for a modular energy system, showing various usage patterns of exemplary surgical procedures, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] A set of exemplary graphical user interface screens illustrating a general architecture of a modular energy system event log according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] An exemplary graphical user interface event log main screen of a modular energy system event log according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] An exemplary graphical user interface event log detail modal, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure, which displays information related to the bipolar energy modality. [Figure 29]An exemplary graphical user interface event log detail modal in which information related to a single-pole one energy modality is displayed according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 30] An exemplary graphical user interface event log detail modal in which information related to a high energy modality is displayed according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] An exemplary graphical user interface event log detail modal in which error state information related to a high energy modality is displayed via a pop-up window according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 32] A flowchart regarding an inductive output verification process according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 33] An exemplary graphical user interface main screen of a modular energy system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] An exemplary graphical user interface utility menu screen of a modular energy system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 35] An exemplary graphical user interface system settings screen of a modular energy system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 36] A perspective view of a graphical user interface of a modular energy system that displays the system settings screen of FIG. 35 according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 37] An exemplary graphical user interface screen for entering output verification according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 38] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 39]An exemplary graphical user interface bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 40] This is a perspective view of a graphical user interface for a modular energy system displaying the bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen shown in Figure 39, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 41] An exemplary graphical user interface bipolar setting resistor screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 42] A perspective view of a user adjusting the resistance level of an ESU analyzer, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 43] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first bipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 44] An exemplary graphical user interface first bipolar mode test screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 45] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first bipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 46] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first bipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 47] An exemplary graphical user interface utility second bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 48] An exemplary graphical user interface final bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 49] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification mode main screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 50] An exemplary graphical user interface single-pole 1ESU analyzer connection screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 51] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first single-pole single-setting resistor screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 52] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first single-pole single-setting resistor screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 53] An exemplary graphical user interface second unipolar 1 test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 54] An exemplary graphical user interface second unipolar 1 test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 55] An exemplary graphical user interface final unipolar 1 test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 56] An exemplary graphical user interface single-pole 2ESU analyzer connection screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 57] An exemplary graphical user interface final unipolar 2 test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 58] An exemplary graphical user interface for an advanced energy monopole ESU analyzer connection screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 59] An exemplary graphical user interface for a final high-energy unipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 60] An exemplary graphical user interface for an advanced energy: ultrasonic ESU analyzer connection screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 61] An exemplary graphical user interface for a final high energy: ultrasonic test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 62]An exemplary graphical user interface for an advanced energy: bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 63] An exemplary graphical user interface final forward energy: bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 64] An exemplary graphical user verification key connection screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 65] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification mode main screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 66] An exemplary graphical user interface main screen for a modular energy system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 67] An exemplary graphical user interface utility menu screen for a modular energy system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 68] An exemplary graphical user interface system setting screen for a modular energy system, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 69] An exemplary graphical user interface screen for inputting output verification, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 70] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification mode main screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 71] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first bipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 72] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first bipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 73]An exemplary graphical user interface first bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 74] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first bipolar test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 75] An exemplary graphical user interface second bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 76] An exemplary graphical user interface second bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 77] An exemplary graphical user interface second bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 78] An exemplary graphical user interface final bipolar test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 79] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification mode main screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 80] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first unipolar 1 test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 81] An exemplary graphical user interface, a first unipolar 1 test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 82] An exemplary graphical user interface second unipolar 1 test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 83] An exemplary graphical user interface third unipolar 1 test mode screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 84] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification mode main screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 85] An exemplary graphical user interface for a first high-energy: ultrasonic test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 86] An exemplary graphical user interface according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 87] An exemplary graphical user interface for an advanced energy: ultrasonic test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 88] An exemplary graphical user interface for a third high-energy: ultrasonic test mode screen, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 89] An exemplary graphical user interface output verification mode main screen according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 90] This is a perspective view of an electrosurgical generator with a temporary electrosurgical unit (ESU) analyzer connection according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 91] A perspective view of an electrosurgical generator connected to an output verification key, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 92] This is a perspective view of an exemplary output verification key according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 93] This is a perspective view of an alternative and exemplary output verification key according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 94] Figure 93 is a top view of the output verification key according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 95] Figure 93 is a front view of the output verification key according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 96] Figure 93 is a rear view of the output verification key according to at least one aspect of this disclosure. [Figure 97] This is an alternative perspective view of the output verification key shown in Figure 93, according to at least one aspect of this disclosure.

[0007] Throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. The examples described herein illustrate various disclosed embodiments in one form and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The applicant of this application owns the following concurrently filed U.S. patent applications, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference: • U.S. Patent Application No. END9314USNP1 / 210018-1M, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR MECHANICAL PACKAGING FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9314USNP2 / 210018-2, Title of Invention: "BACKPLANE CONNECTOR ATTACHMENT MECHANISM FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9314USNP3 / 210018-3, Title of Invention: "BEZEL WITH LIGHT BLOCKING FEATURES FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM" • U.S. Patent Application No. END9314USNP4 / 210018-4, Title of Invention: "HEADER FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9316USNP1 / 210020-1M, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR ENERGY DELIVERY FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9316USNP2 / 210020-2, Title of Invention: "MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH DUAL AMPLIFIER AND TECHNIQUES FOR UPDATING PARAMETERS THEREOF", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9316USNP3 / 210020-3, Title of Invention: "MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MULTI-ENERGY PORT SPLITTER FOR MULTIPLE ENERGY DEVICES", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9317USNP1 / 210021-1M, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT INSTRUMENTS FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9317USNP2 / 210021-2, Title of Invention: "RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION TOKEN FOR WIRELESS SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9317USNP3 / 210021-3, Title of Invention: "INTELLIGENT DATA PORTS FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEMS", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9318USNP1 / 210022-1M, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9318USNP2 / 210022-2, Title of Invention: "USER INTERFACE MITIGATION TECHNIQUES FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEMS", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9318USNP3 / 210022-3, Title of Invention: "ENERGY DELIVERY MITIGATIONS FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEMS", • U.S. Patent Application No. END9318USNP4 / 210022-4, Title of Invention "ARCHITECTURE FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM", and • U.S. Patent Application No. END9318USNP5 / 210022-5, Title of Invention: "MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH HARDWARE MITIGATED COMMUNICATION".

[0009] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on September 5, 2019, the disclosures of each of these are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,144, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR CONTROLLING MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM USER INTERFACE" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078106), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,151, Title of Invention: PASSIVE HEADER MODULE FOR A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078110) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,157, Title of Invention: "CONSOLIDATED USER INTERFACE FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0081585) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,159, Title of Invention: "AUDIO TONE CONSTRUCTION FOR AN ENERGY MODULE OF A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0314569) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,163, Title of Invention: "Adaptably Connectable and Reassignable System Accessories for Modular Energy System" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078111) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,123, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING AND USING A MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MULTIPLE DEVICES" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0100830) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,135, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN ENERGY MODULE OUTPUT" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078076), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,180, Title of Invention: "ENERGY MODULE FOR DRIVING MULTIPLE ENERGY MODALITIES" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078080), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,184, Title of Invention: "GROUNDING ARRANGEMENT OF ENERGY MODULES" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078081), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,188, Title of Invention: "BACKPLANE CONNECTOR DESIGN TO CONNECT STACKED ENERGY MODULES" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078116) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,195, Title of Invention: "ENERGY MODULE FOR ENERGY MODALITIES THROUGH A PORT" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078117) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,202, Title of Invention: "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING DRIVE SIGNAL TO POWER SECONDARY FUNCTION" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078082), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,142, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR ENERGY DISTRIBUTION IN A SURGICAL MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078070), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,169, Title of Invention: "SURGICAL MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH A SEGMENTED BACKPLANE" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078112) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,185, Title of Invention: "SURGICAL MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM WITH FOOTER MODULE" (currently U.S. Publication No. 2020 / 0078115) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,203, Title of Invention: "POWER AND COMMUNICATION MITIGATION ARRANGEMENT FOR MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078118) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,212, Title of Invention: "MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MODULE POSITIONAL AWARENESS SENSING WITH VOLTAGE DETECTION" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078119) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,234, Title of Invention: "MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MODULE POSITIONAL AWARENESS SENSING WITH TIME COUNTER" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0305945), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,243, Title of Invention: "MODULAR SURGICAL ENERGY SYSTEM WITH MODULE POSITIONAL AWARENESS WITH DIGITAL LOGIC" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078120), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,125, Title of Invention: "METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN MODULES AND DEVICES IN A MODULAR SURGICAL SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0100825) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,137, Title of Invention: "FLEXIBLE HAND-SWITCH CIRCUIT" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0106220) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,143, Title of Invention: "FIRST AND SECOND COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL ARRANGEMENT FOR DRIVING PRIMARY AND SECONDARY DEVICES THROUGH A SINGLE PORT" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0090808) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,148, Title of Invention: "FLEXIBLE NEUTRAL ELECTRODE" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078077), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,154, Title of Invention: "SMART RETURN PAD SENSING THROUGH MODULATION OF NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION AND CONTACT QUALITY MONITORING SIGNALS" (currently published as Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078089) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,162, Title of Invention: "AUTOMATIC ULTRASONIC ENERGY ACTIVATION CIRCUIT FOR MODULAR SURGICAL SYSTEMS" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0305924), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,167, Title of Invention: "Coordinated Energy Outputs of Separate But Connected Modules" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078078), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,170, Title of Invention: "Managing Simultaneous Monopolar Outputs Using Duty Cycle and Synchronization" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078079), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,172, Title of Invention: "PORT PRESENCE DETECTION SYSTEM FOR MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078113) • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,175, Title of Invention: "INSTRUMENT TRACKING ARRANGEMENT BASED ON REAL TIME CLOCK INFORMATION" (currently U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0078071), • U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 562,177, Title of Invention: "REGIONAL LOCATION TRACKING COMPONENTS OF A MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM" (currently U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0078114) • U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 704,610, Title of Invention: "ENERGY MODULE", • U.S. Design Application No. 29 / 704,614, Title of Invention: "ENERGY MODULE MONOPOLAR PORT WITH FOURTH SOCKET AMONG THREE OTHER SOCKETS", • U.S. Design Application No. 29 / 704,616, Title of Invention: "BACKPLANE CONNECTOR FOR ENERGY MODULE", and U.S. Design Application No. 29 / 704,617, Title of Invention: "ALERT SCREEN FOR ENERGY MODULE".

[0010] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. provisional patent applications filed on March 29, 2019, the entirety of each of these disclosures is incorporated herein by reference. • U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 826,584, Title of Invention: "MODULAR SURGICAL PLATFORM ELECTRICAL ARCHITECTURE", • U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 826,587, Title of Invention: "MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM CONNECTIVITY", • U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 826,588, "MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM INSTRUMENT COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES", and • U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 826,592, Title of Invention: "MODULAR ENERGY DELIVERY SYSTEM".

[0011] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. provisional patent applications filed on September 7, 2018, the entirety of each disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference: • U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 728,480, Title of Invention: "MODULAR ENERGY SYSTEM AND USER INTERFACE".

[0012] Before describing in detail the various embodiments of surgical devices and generators, it should be noted that the illustrative embodiments are not limited in their application or use to the details of the structure and arrangement of the components illustrated in the accompanying drawings and descriptions. The illustrative embodiments may be implemented or incorporated into other embodiments, variations, and modifications, and may be carried out or performed in various ways. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms and expressions used herein have been selected for the purpose of illustrating the illustrative embodiments for the convenience of the reader and are not intended to limit them. Furthermore, it should be understood that one or more embodiments, expressions of embodiments, and / or embodiments described below may be combined with any one or more other embodiments, expressions of embodiments, and / or embodiments described below.

[0013] Various embodiments apply to improved ultrasonic surgical devices, electrosurgical devices, and generators for use with them. Embodiments of ultrasonic surgical devices may be configured, for example, to transversely incise and / or coagulate tissue during surgical procedures. Embodiments of electrosurgical devices may be configured, for example, to transversely incise, coagulate, scale, weld and / or dry tissue during surgical procedures.

[0014] Surgical system hardware Referring to Figure 1, the computer-implemented interactive surgical system 100 includes one or more surgical systems 102 and a cloud-based system (e.g., a cloud 104 which may include a remote server 113 coupled to a storage device 105). Each surgical system 102 includes at least one surgical hub 106 that communicates with the cloud 104 which may include the remote server 113. In one example, as shown in Figure 1, the surgical system 102 includes a visualization system 108, a robotic system 110, and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument 112, which are configured to communicate with each other and / or with the hub 106. In some embodiments, the surgical system 102 may include M hubs 106, N visualization systems 108, O robotic systems 110, and P handheld intelligent surgical instruments 112, where M, N, O, and P are integers of 1 or more.

[0015] Figure 2 shows an example of a surgical system 102 used to perform surgical procedures on a patient lying on an operating table 114 in an operating room 116. A robotic system 110 is used as part of the surgical system 102 in surgical procedures. The robotic system 110 includes a surgeon's console 118, a patient-side cart 120 (surgical robot), and a surgical robot hub 122. The patient-side cart 120 allows the surgeon to manipulate at least one detachably coupled surgical tool 117 through a minimally invasive incision in the patient's body while viewing the surgical site through the surgeon's console 118. Images of the surgical site can be acquired by a medical imaging device 124, which can be manipulated by the patient-side cart 120 to align the orientation of the imaging device 124. The robotic hub 122 can be used to process images of the surgical site, which can then be displayed to the surgeon through the surgeon's console 118.

[0016] Other types of robotic systems can be readily adapted for use with surgical system 102. Various examples of robotic systems and surgical tools suitable for use with this disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,339, filed December 28, 2017, entitled "ROBOT ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORM," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] Various examples of cloud-based analytical methods implemented by Cloud104 and suitable for use with this disclosure are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,340, filed December 28, 2017, entitled “CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0018] In various embodiments, the imaging device 124 includes at least one image sensor and one or more optical components. Suitable image sensors include, but are not limited to, charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors and complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensors.

[0019] The optical components of the imaging device 124 may include one or more illumination sources and / or one or more lenses. One or more illumination sources may be directed to illuminate a portion of the surgical field. One or more image sensors may receive light reflected or refracted from the surgical field, including light reflected or refracted from tissue and / or surgical instruments.

[0020] One or more illumination sources may be configured to emit electromagnetic energy in the visible and invisible spectra. The visible spectrum, sometimes also called the light spectrum or emission spectrum, is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye (i.e., detectable by the human eye), and is sometimes called visible light, or simply light. The typical human eye responds to wavelengths in air from about 380 nm to about 750 nm.

[0021] The invisible spectrum (i.e., the non-emission spectrum) is a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum located below and above the visible spectrum (i.e., wavelengths below approximately 380 nm and above approximately 750 nm). The invisible spectrum is undetectable to the human eye. Wavelengths above approximately 750 nm are longer than the red visible spectrum and consist of invisible infrared (IR), microwaves, and radio electromagnetic radiation. Wavelengths below approximately 380 nm are shorter than the violet spectrum and consist of invisible ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma-ray electromagnetic radiation.

[0022] In various embodiments, the imaging device 124 is configured for use in minimally invasive surgery. Examples of imaging devices suitable for use with the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, arthroscopes, angioscopes, bronchoscopes, cholangioscopies, colonoscopes, cystoscopes, duodenoscopes, intestinaloscopes, esophagogastroduodenoscopes (gastroscopy), endoscopes, laryngoscopes, nasopharyngolaryngoscopes, sigmoidoscopy, thoracoscopy, and ureteroscopes.

[0023] In one embodiment, the imaging device employs multispectral monitoring to distinguish topography from underlying structures. Multispectral imaging captures image data within a specific wavelength range from the entire electromagnetic spectrum. Wavelengths can be separated by filters or by using instruments sensitive to specific wavelengths, including frequencies beyond the visible light range, such as IR and ultraviolet light. Spectral imaging makes it possible to extract additional information that cannot be captured by the red, green, and blue receptors of the human eye. The use of multispectral imaging is described in detail in the section "Advanced Imaging Acquisition Module" of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,341, filed December 28, 2017, entitled "INTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Multispectral monitoring can be a useful tool for repositioning the surgical field after the completion of a surgical task to perform one or more of the tests described above on the treated tissue.

[0024] It is self-evident that strict sterilization of the operating room and surgical instruments is necessary in any surgical procedure. The strict sanitary and sterilization conditions required in the “operating area,” i.e., the operating room or treatment room, require the highest possible level of sterility for all medical devices and instruments. Part of the above sterilization process includes the need to sterilize everything that comes into contact with the patient or enters the sterile field, including the imaging device 124 and its accessories and components. It will be understood that the sterile field may be considered a specific area that is deemed to be free of microorganisms, such as inside a tray or on a sterile towel, or it may be considered the area immediately surrounding a patient who is ready for surgical treatment. The sterile field may include cleaned team members wearing appropriate clothing, as well as all equipment and restraints within that area.

[0025] In various embodiments, the visualization system 108 includes one or more imaging sensors strategically positioned relative to a sterile field, one or more image processing units, one or more storage arrays, and one or more displays, as shown in Figure 2. In one embodiment, the visualization system 108 includes interfaces for HL7, PACS, and EMR. Various components of the visualization system 108 are described in the section “Advanced Imaging Acquisition Module” of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,341, filed December 28, 2017, “INTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2, the primary display 119 is positioned in the sterile field so that it is visible to the operator on the operating table 114. In addition, a visualization tower 111 is positioned outside the sterile field. The visualization tower 111 includes a first non-sterile display 107 and a second non-sterile display 109, facing opposite directions from each other. A visualization system 108, guided by a hub 106, is configured to utilize displays 107, 109, and 119 to coordinate the flow of information to operators inside and outside the sterile field. For example, the hub 106 can cause the visualization system 108 to display snapshots of the surgical site recorded by the imaging device 124 on the non-sterile displays 107 or 109 while maintaining live video of the surgical site on the primary display 119. The snapshots on the non-sterile displays 107 or 109 can, for example, allow a non-sterile operator to perform diagnostic steps related to the surgical procedure.

[0027] In one embodiment, the hub 106 is also configured to send diagnostic input or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator in the visualization tower 111 to a primary display 119 in the sterile field, which can then be viewed by a sterile operator at the operating table. In one example, the input may take the form of modifications to a snapshot displayed on the non-sterile display 107 or 109, which can then be sent to the primary display 119 by the hub 106.

[0028] Referring to Figure 2, the surgical instrument 112 is used as part of the surgical system 102 in a surgical procedure. The hub 106 is also configured to coordinate the flow of information to the display of the surgical instrument 112. For example, in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,341, filed December 28, 2017, entitled "INTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Diagnostic input or feedback entered by a non-sterile operator in the visualization tower 111 can be sent by the hub 106 to the surgical instrument display 115 in the sterile field, which can then be viewed by the operator of the surgical instrument 112. Examples of surgical instruments suitable for use with surgical system 102 are described, for example, in the section “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HARDWARE” and in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 611,341, filed December 28, 2017, entitled “INTERACTIVE SURGICAL PLATFORM,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0029] Referring here to Figure 3, a hub 106 is shown that communicates with a visualization system 108, a robotic system 110, and a handheld intelligent surgical instrument 112. In some embodiments, the visualization system 108 may be a detachable instrument. In alternative embodiments, the visualization system 108 may be contained within the hub 106 as a functional module. The hub 106 includes a hub display 135, an imaging module 138, a generator module 140, a communication module 130, a processor module 132, a storage array 134, and an operating room mapping module 133. In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the hub 106 further includes a smoke extraction module 126, a suction / irrigation module 128, and / or a blowing module 129. In some embodiments, any of the modules within the hub 106 may be combined with each other to form a single module.

[0030] During surgical procedures, applying energy to tissue for sealing and / or cutting is generally associated with fumes, excess fluid suction, and / or tissue irrigation. Fluid lines, power lines, and / or data lines from different sources often become entangled during surgical procedures. Dealing with this problem during surgical procedures can result in the loss of valuable time. Untangling lines may require disconnecting them from their corresponding modules, which may necessitate resetting the modules. The modular enclosure 136 of the hub provides a unified environment for managing power lines, data lines, and fluid lines, reducing the frequency of entanglement between such lines.

[0031] Aspects of this disclosure present a surgical hub for use in surgical procedures involving the application of energy to tissue at a surgical site. The surgical hub includes a hub enclosure and a combination generator module slidably receivable within a docking station of the hub enclosure. The docking station includes data contacts and power contacts. The combination generator module includes one or more of the following components housed in a single unit: an ultrasonic energy generator component, a bipolar RF energy generator component, and a unipolar RF energy generator component. In one aspect, the combination generator module also includes a fume exhaust component, at least one energy supply cable for connecting the combination generator module to a surgical instrument, at least one fume exhaust component configured to exhaust smoke, fluid, and / or particulate matter generated by the application of therapeutic energy to tissue, and a fluid line extending from the remote surgical site to the fume exhaust component.

[0032] In one embodiment, the fluid line described above is a first fluid line, and a second fluid line extends from the remote surgical site to a suction and irrigation module that is slidably received within a hub enclosure. In one embodiment, the hub enclosure includes a fluid interface.

[0033] Certain surgical procedures may require the application of two or more energy types to tissue. One energy type may be more beneficial for cutting tissue, while another different energy type may be more beneficial for sealing tissue. For example, a bipolar generator can be used to seal tissue, while an ultrasonic generator can be used to cut sealed tissue. A part of the present disclosure presents a solution in which a modular enclosure 136 of the hub is configured to house various generators and facilitate interactive communication between them. One of the advantages of the modular enclosure 136 of the hub is that it allows for the rapid removal and / or replacement of various modules.

[0034] Aspects of this disclosure present a modular surgical enclosure for use in surgical procedures involving the application of energy to tissue. The modular surgical enclosure includes a first energy generator module configured to generate a first energy for application to tissue, and a first docking station having a first docking port including first data and power contacts. In one aspect, the first energy generator module is slidably movable to electrically engage with the power and data contacts, and the first energy generator module is slidably movable to disengage from the first power and data contacts. In an alternative aspect, the first energy generator module is stackably movable to electrically engage with the power and data contacts, and the first energy generator module is stackably movable to disengage from the first power and data contacts.

[0035] In addition to the above, the modular surgical enclosure also includes a second energy generator module configured to generate a second energy that is the same as or different from a first energy for application to tissue, and a second docking station having a second docking port including second data and power contacts. In one embodiment, the second energy generator module is slidably movable to electrically engage with the power and data contacts, and the second energy generator module is slidably movable to disengage from the second power and data contacts. In an alternative embodiment, the second energy generator module is stackably movable to electrically engage with the power and data contacts, and the second energy generator module is stackably movable to disengage from the second power and data contacts.

[0036] In addition, the modular surgical enclosure also includes a communication bus between a first docking port and a second docking port, which is configured to facilitate communication between a first energy generator module and a second energy generator module.

[0037] Referring to Figure 3, an aspect of the present disclosure is presented relating to a modular enclosure 136 of a hub that enables modular integration of a generator module 140, a smoke exhaust module 126, a suction / irrigation module 128, and a blow module 129. The modular enclosure 136 of the hub further facilitates interactive communication between modules 140, 126, 128, and 129. The generator module 140 may be a generator module comprising integrated unipolar, bipolar, and ultrasonic components supported within a single housing unit that is slidably inserted into the modular enclosure 136 of the hub. The generator module 140 may be configured to connect to a unipolar device 142, a bipolar device 144, and an ultrasonic device 148. Alternatively, the generator module 140 may comprise a series of unipolar generator modules, bipolar generator modules, and / or ultrasonic generator modules that interact via the modular enclosure 136 of the hub. The modular enclosure 136 of the hub can be configured to facilitate the insertion of multiple generators and bidirectional communication between generators docked to the modular enclosure 136 of the hub, so that multiple generators function as a single generator.

[0038] In one embodiment, the modular enclosure 136 of the hub includes a modular power and communications backplane 149 with external and wireless communication headers to enable the removable mounting of modules 140, 126, 128, and 129 and interactive communication between them.

[0039] Generator hardware When used throughout this description, the term “wireless” and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc., that can communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation over a non-solid medium. This term does not imply that the devices in question are entirely wired, although in some aspects they may not be present. A communication module may implement any of several wireless or wired communication standards or protocols, including, but not limited to, Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 family), WiMAX (IEEE 802.16 family), IEEE 802.20, Long-Term Evolution (LTE), Ev-DO, HSPA+, HSDPA+, HSUPA+, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, CDMA, TDMA, DECT, Bluetooth, and their Ethernet derivatives, as well as any other wireless and wired protocols designated as 3G, 4G, 5G, and later. A computing module may include multiple communication modules. For example, the first communication module may be dedicated to short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and the second communication module may be dedicated to long-range wireless communication such as GPS, EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE, and Ev-DO.

[0040] As used herein, a processor or processing unit is an electronic circuit that operates on several external data sources (usually memory) or some other data stream. The term is used herein to refer to a central processor (central processing unit) within a system or computer system (in particular, a system on a chip, or SoC) that combines several specialized "processors".

[0041] As used herein, a system-on-a-chip (SoC or SOC) is an integrated circuit (also known as an "IC" or "chip") that integrates all the components of a computer or other electronic system. It can contain digital, analog, mixed-signal, and often high-frequency functions, all on a single substrate. An SoC integrates a microcontroller (or microprocessor) with modern peripherals such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), Wi-Fi module, or coprocessor. An SoC may or may not include internal memory.

[0042] As used herein, a microcontroller or controller is a system that integrates a microprocessor with peripheral circuits and memory. A microcontroller (or MCU for a microcontroller unit) may be implemented as a miniature computer on a single integrated circuit. This may be similar to an SoC, which may include a microcontroller as one of its components. A microcontroller may house memory and programmable input / output peripherals along with one or more core processing units (CPUs). Program memory in the form of ferroelectric RAM, NOR flash, or OTP ROM, and a small amount of RAM are also often included on the chip. Microcontrollers may be used for embedded applications, in contrast to microprocessors used in personal computers or other general-purpose applications consisting of various separate chips.

[0043] As used herein, the terms controller or microcontroller may refer to a standalone IC or chip device that interfaces with a peripheral device. This may also refer to a link between two parts of a computer or controller on an external device that manages the operation of the device (and its connection to the device).

[0044] Any processor or microcontroller described herein may be implemented by any single-core or multi-core processor, such as those known by the trade name ARM Cortex from Texas Instruments. In one embodiment, the processor may be, for example, the LM4F230H5QR ARM Cortex-M4F processor core available from Texas Instruments. This processor core includes on-chip memory of 256KB single-cycle flash memory or other non-volatile memory with a maximum frequency of 40MHz, a prefetch buffer to improve performance beyond 40MHz, 32KB single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internal read-only memory (ROM) with StellarisWare® software, 2KB electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, one or more quadrature encoder input (QEI) analogs, and one or more 12-bit analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) with 12 analog input channels. Further details are available in the product datasheet.

[0045] In one embodiment, the processor may include a safety controller, which may include two controller-based families, such as the TMS570 and RM4x, also from Texas Instruments and known by the trade names Hercules ARM Cortex R4. The safety controller may be configured specifically for IEC61508 and ISO26262 safety limit applications, in particular, to provide a highly integrated safety mechanism while offering scalable performance, connectivity, and memory options.

[0046] A modular device includes modules receivable within a surgical hub (as described, for example, in relation to Figure 3), and surgical devices or instruments that can be connected to various modules for connection or pairing with the corresponding surgical hub. Examples of modular devices include intelligent surgical instruments, medical imaging devices, suction / irrigation devices, fume extractors, energy generators, ventilators, inhalers, and displays. Modular devices described herein can be controlled by control algorithms. Control algorithms may run on the modular device itself, on the surgical hub to which a particular modular device is paired, or on both the modular device and the surgical hub (for example, via a distributed computing architecture). In some examples, the control algorithm of a modular device controls the device based on data sensed by the modular device itself (i.e., by sensors within the modular device, on the modular device, or connected to the modular device). This data may be related to the patient during surgery (e.g., tissue characteristics or blow pressure) or to the modular device itself (e.g., the speed of the advancing knife, motor current, or energy level). For example, a control algorithm for surgical stapling and cutting instruments can control the speed at which the instrument's motor penetrates tissue and drives the knife, based on the resistance generated by the knife as it moves forward.

[0047] Figure 4 shows one embodiment of the surgical system 2200, which includes a modular energy system 2000 and various surgical instruments 2204, 2206, and 2208 that can be used with it, where surgical instrument 2204 is an ultrasonic surgical instrument, surgical instrument 2206 is an RF electrosurgical instrument, and multifunctional surgical instrument 2208 is a combined ultrasonic / RF electrosurgical instrument. The modular energy system 2000 can be configured for use with various surgical instruments. In various embodiments, the modular energy system 2000 may be configured for use with different types of various surgical devices, including, for example, the ultrasonic surgical instrument 2204, the RF electrosurgical instrument 2206, and the multifunctional surgical instrument 2208 which integrates RF energy and ultrasonic energy delivered individually or simultaneously from the modular energy system 2000. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the modular energy system 2000 is shown separately from the surgical instruments 2204, 2206, and 2208. However, in one embodiment, the modular energy system 2000 may be integrally formed with any of the surgical instruments 2204, 2206, and 2208 to form an integrated surgical system. The modular energy system 2000 may be configured for wired or wireless communication.

[0048] The modular energy system 2000 is configured to drive several surgical instruments 2204, 2206, and 2208. The first surgical instrument is the ultrasonic surgical instrument 2204, which includes a handpiece 2205 (HP), an ultrasonic transducer 2220, a shaft 2226, and an end effector 2222. The end effector 2222 includes an ultrasonic blade 2228 acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer 2220 and a clamp arm 2240. The handpiece 2205 includes a trigger 2243 for operating the clamp arm 2240 and a combination of toggle buttons 2234a, 2234b, and 2234c for supplying energy to and driving the ultrasonic blade 2228 or other functions. The toggle buttons 2234a, 2234b, and 2234c can be configured to supply energy to the ultrasonic transducer 2220 using the modular energy system 2000.

[0049] The modular energy system 2000 is also configured to drive a second surgical instrument 2206. The second surgical instrument 2206 is an RF electrosurgical instrument and includes a handpiece 2207 (HP), a shaft 2227, and an end effector 2224. The end effector 2224 contains electrodes in clamp arms 2242a, 2242b that return through the electrically conductive portion of the shaft 2227. The electrodes are coupled to a bipolar energy source in the modular energy system 2000 and are powered by the bipolar energy source. The handpiece 2207 includes a trigger 2245 for operating the clamp arms 2242a, 2242b and an energy button 2235 for activating an energy switch to supply energy to the electrodes in the end effector 2224.

[0050] The modular energy system 2000 is also configured to drive a multifunctional surgical instrument 2208. The multifunctional surgical instrument 2208 includes a handpiece 2209 (HP), a shaft 2229, and an end effector 2225. The end effector 2225 includes an ultrasonic blade 2249 and a clamp arm 2246. The ultrasonic blade 2249 is acoustically coupled to an ultrasonic transducer 2220. The ultrasonic transducer 2220 may be detachable from the handpiece 2209 or integrated with it. The handpiece 2209 includes a trigger 2247 for operating the clamp arm 2246 and a combination of toggle buttons 2237a, 2237b, and 2237c for supplying energy to and driving the ultrasonic blade 2249 or other functions. The toggle buttons 2237a, 2237b, and 2237c can be configured to supply energy to the ultrasonic transducer 2220 using the modular energy system 2000, and similarly to supply energy to the ultrasonic blade 2249 using a bipolar energy source housed within the modular energy system 2000.

[0051] The modular energy system 2000 can be configured for use with a variety of surgical instruments. In various embodiments, the modular energy system 2000 may be configured for use with different types of surgical instruments, including, for example, an ultrasonic surgical instrument 2204, an RF electrosurgical instrument 2206, and a multifunctional surgical instrument 2208 that integrates RF and ultrasonic energy delivered simultaneously from the modular energy system 2000. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the modular energy system 2000 is shown separately from the surgical instruments 2204, 2206, and 2208, but in another embodiment, the modular energy system 2000 may be formed integrally with any one of the surgical instruments 2204, 2206, and 2208 to form an integrated surgical system. Further embodiments of generators for digitally generating electrical signal waveforms and surgical instruments are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0086914, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0052] Situational awareness "Intelligent" devices that include control algorithms that respond to detected data may be an improvement over "data-dumb" devices that operate without considering detected data. However, some detected data, when considered in isolation, may be incomplete or inconclusive without the context of the type of surgical procedure being performed or the type of tissue being operated on. Without knowing the context of the procedure (e.g., the type of tissue being operated on or the type of procedure being performed), a control algorithm, given detected data without specific context, may control a modular device inaccurately or suboptimally. For example, the optimal form of a control algorithm for controlling a surgical instrument in response to a specific detected parameter may vary depending on the specific type of tissue being operated on. This is due to the fact that different types of tissue have different properties (e.g., resistance to tearing) and therefore respond differently to actions taken by the surgical instrument. Thus, even when the same measurement is detected for a particular parameter, it may be desirable for the surgical instrument to take different actions. As a specific example, the optimal mode of control for surgical stapling and cutting instruments in response to detecting unexpectedly high forces required to close their end effectors differs depending on whether the tissue type is susceptible to tearing or resistant to tearing. For tear-sensitive tissues, such as lung tissue, the instrument's control algorithm optimally slows down the motor in response to unexpectedly high forces required to close in order to avoid tearing the tissue. For tear-resistant tissues, such as stomach tissue, the instrument's control algorithm optimally accelerates the motor in response to unexpectedly high forces required to close in order to ensure that the end effector is properly clamped to the tissue. If it is unclear whether lung tissue or stomach tissue is being clamped, the control algorithm may make an insufficient decision.

[0053] One solution utilizes a surgical hub, which includes a system configured to derive information about the surgical procedure being performed based on data received from various data sources, and then appropriately control paired modular devices. In other words, the surgical hub is configured to infer information about the surgical procedure from the received data, and then control the modular devices paired with the surgical hub based on the inferred context about the surgical procedure. Figure 5 illustrates a diagram of a context-aware surgical system 2300 according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. In some examples, the data source 2326 may include, for example, a modular device 2302 (which may include sensors configured to detect parameters associated with the patient and / or the modular device itself), a database 2322 (e.g., an EMR database containing patient records), and a patient monitoring device 2324 (e.g., a blood pressure (BP) monitor and an electrocardiography (EKG) monitor). The surgical hub 2304 can be configured to derive contextual information about a surgical procedure from the data, for example, based on a specific combination of received data or a specific order in which the data was received from the data source 2326. The contextual information inferred from the received data may include, for example, the type of surgical procedure being performed, a specific step of the surgical procedure being performed by the surgeon, the type of tissue being operated on, or the body cavity to which the procedure is being performed. This function of the surgical hub 2304 for deriving or inferring information about a surgical procedure from received data may be referred to as “situational awareness.” In one example, the surgical hub 2304 may incorporate a situational awareness system, which is hardware and / or programming associated with the surgical hub 2304, for deriving contextual information related to a surgical procedure from received data.

[0054] The situational awareness system of the surgical hub 2304 can be configured to derive contextual information from data received from the data source 2326 in various different ways. In one example, the situational awareness system includes a pattern recognition system or machine learning system (e.g., an artificial neural network) trained on training data to correlate various inputs (e.g., data from the database 2322, patient monitoring device 2324, and / or modular device 2302) with corresponding contextual information about a surgical procedure. In other words, the machine learning system can be trained to accurately derive contextual information about a surgical procedure from the provided inputs. In another example, the situational awareness system may include a lookup table that stores pre-characterized contextual information about a surgical procedure, associated with one or more inputs (or ranges of inputs) that correspond to that contextual information. In response to a query with one or more inputs, the lookup table can return the corresponding contextual information of the situational awareness system to control the modular device 2302. In one example, contextual information received by the situation awareness system of the surgical hub 2304 is associated with a specific control adjustment, or a set of control adjustments, of one or more modular devices 2302. In another example, the situation awareness system includes a further machine learning system, a lookup table, or other such system that generates or retrieves one or more control adjustments of one or more modular devices 2302 when contextual information is provided as input.

[0055] The surgical hub 2304, which incorporates a situational awareness system, brings several advantages to the surgical system 2300. One advantage is improved interpretation of detected and collected data, which improves processing accuracy during the course of the surgical procedure and / or the use of the data. Returning to the previous example, the situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can determine what type of tissue is being operated on, and therefore, if an unexpectedly high force is detected to close the end effector of a surgical instrument, the situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can correctly accelerate or decelerate the motor of the surgical instrument according to the tissue type.

[0056] In another embodiment, the type of tissue being operated on may affect the adjustments made to the compression rate and load threshold of surgical stapling and cutting instruments for measuring specific interstitial gaps. The situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can infer whether the surgical procedure being performed is a thoracic or abdominal procedure, thereby allowing the surgical hub 2304 to determine whether the tissue clamped by the end effector of the surgical stapling and cutting instrument is lung tissue (in the case of a thoracic procedure) or gastric tissue (in the case of an abdominal procedure). The surgical hub 2304 can then appropriately adjust the compression rate and load threshold of the surgical stapling and cutting instrument to match the type of tissue.

[0057] In yet another embodiment, the type of body cavity being operated on during a blown procedure may affect the function of the fume extractor. The situation-aware surgical hub 2304 can determine whether the surgical site is under pressure (by determining that the surgical procedure is utilizing blown) and determine the type of procedure. Generally, since certain types of procedures are performed in specific body cavities, the surgical hub 2304 can appropriately control the motor speed of the fume extractor to match the body cavity being operated on. Thus, the situation-aware surgical hub 2304 can provide a consistent amount of fume extraction for both thoracic and abdominal surgeries.

[0058] As yet another example, the type of procedure being performed can affect the optimal energy level for operation of an ultrasonic surgical instrument or a radio frequency (RF) electrosurgical instrument. For example, arthroscopy requires a higher energy level because the end effector of the ultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgical instrument is immersed in fluid. The situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can determine whether the surgical procedure is an arthroscopic procedure. The surgical hub 2304 can then adjust the RF power level or ultrasonic amplitude (i.e., "energy level") of the generator to compensate for the fluid-filled environment. Relatedly, the type of tissue being operated on can affect the optimal energy level for operation of an ultrasonic surgical instrument or an RF electrosurgical instrument. The situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can determine what type of surgical procedure is being performed and then customize the energy level of the ultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgical instrument, respectively, according to the expected tissue shape for the surgical procedure. Furthermore, the situation-aware surgical hub 2304 can be configured to adjust the energy level of the ultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgical instrument not merely per procedure, but throughout the course of the surgical procedure. The situation-aware surgical hub 2304 can determine which step of the surgical procedure is being performed or is continuing, and then update the control algorithms of the generator and / or the ultrasonic surgical instrument or RF electrosurgical instrument to set the energy level to a value appropriate for the expected tissue type according to the steps of the surgical procedure.

[0059] As yet another example, the surgical hub 2304 may also derive data from additional data sources 2326 to improve conclusions drawn from one data source 2326. The contextually aware surgical hub 2304 may enhance data received from the modular device 2302 with contextual information constructed from other data sources 2326 regarding the surgical procedure. For example, the contextually aware surgical hub 2304 may be configured to determine whether hemostasis has occurred (i.e., whether bleeding at the surgical site has stopped) according to video or image data received from a medical imaging device. However, in some cases, video or image data may not be conclusive. Therefore, in one example, the surgical hub 2304 may be further configured to make a determination regarding the integrity of staple lines or tissue welds by comparing physiological measurements (e.g., blood pressure detected by a BP monitor communicably connected to the surgical hub 2304) with visual or image data of hemostasis (e.g., from a medical imaging device 124 (Figure 2) communicably coupled to the surgical hub 2304). In other words, the context-aware system of the surgical hub 2304 can take physiological measurement data into consideration to provide additional context when analyzing visualization data. This additional context can be useful when the visualization data itself may not be definitive or may be incomplete.

[0060] Another advantage is the proactive and automatic control of the paired modular devices 2302 according to specific steps of the surgical procedure being performed, in order to reduce the number of times medical personnel are required to interact with or control the surgical system 2300 during the course of the surgical procedure. For example, the situation-aware surgical hub 2304 may proactively activate a generator to which an RF electrosurgical instrument is connected if it determines that the use of an instrument is required in a subsequent step of the procedure. By proactively activating the energy source, the instrument can be ready for use as soon as the preceding step of the procedure is completed.

[0061] In another embodiment, the situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can determine whether the current or subsequent steps of the surgical procedure require different views or magnifications on the display, according to the shape(s) of the surgical site that the surgeon is expected to need to see. The surgical hub 2304 can then proactively change the displayed view (e.g., supplied from a medical imaging device for the visualization system 108) as appropriate, thereby automatically adjusting the display throughout the surgical procedure.

[0062] As yet another example, the situation-aware surgical hub 2304 can determine which steps of a surgical procedure are being performed or will be performed next, and whether specific data or comparisons of data are required for that step of the surgical procedure. The surgical hub 2304 can be configured to automatically call up data screens based on the steps of the surgical procedure being performed, without waiting for the surgeon to ask for specific information.

[0063] Another advantage is the ability to check for errors during or in the course of a surgical procedure. For example, the situation-aware surgical hub 2304 can determine whether the operating room is properly or optimally set up for the surgical procedure to be performed. The surgical hub 2304 can be configured to determine the type of surgical procedure being performed, read the corresponding checklist, product location, or setup requirements (e.g., from memory), and then compare the current operating room layout to a standard layout for the type of surgical procedure that the surgical hub 2304 has determined is being performed. In one example, the surgical hub 2304 may be configured to compare a list of items for the procedure (e.g., scanned by a suitable scanner) and / or a list of devices paired with the surgical hub 2304 to a recommended or expected manifest of items and / or devices for a given surgical procedure. If any discontinuities exist between the lists, the surgical hub 2304 can be configured to provide a warning indicating that a particular modular device 2302, patient monitoring device 2324, and / or other surgical items are missing. In one example, the surgical hub 2304 may be configured to determine the relative distance or relative position of the modular device 2302 and the patient monitoring device 2324, for example, by proximity sensors. The surgical hub 2304 can compare the relative positions of the devices to a recommended or expected layout for a particular surgical procedure. If any discontinuity exists between the layouts, the surgical hub 2304 may be configured to provide a warning indicating that the current layout for the surgical procedure deviates from the recommended layout.

[0064] As another example, the situational awareness surgical hub 2304 can determine whether a surgeon (or other healthcare professional) is making an error or deviating from a set of actions expected during the course of a surgical procedure. For example, the surgical hub 2304 may be configured to determine the type of surgical procedure being performed, read a corresponding list of instrument usage steps or sequences (e.g., from memory), and then compare the steps or instruments being performed or used during the course of the surgical procedure with the steps or instruments expected for the type of surgical procedure that the surgical hub 2304 has determined is being performed. In one example, the surgical hub 2304 may be configured to provide a warning indicating that an unexpected action is being performed or an unexpected device is being used at a particular step in the surgical procedure.

[0065] Overall, the context-aware system for the surgical hub 2304 improves surgical outcomes by adjusting surgical instruments (and other modular devices 2302) for the specific context of each surgical procedure (e.g., to suit different tissue types) and by validating actions during the surgical procedure. Furthermore, the context-aware system improves surgeon efficiency when performing surgical procedures by automatically suggesting the next steps, providing data, and adjusting the in-surgery displays and other modular devices 2302 according to the specific context of the procedure.

[0066] Modular energy systems Due to the sheer volume of equipment required to perform surgical procedures, operating rooms worldwide are rife with a complex tangle of cords, devices, and people. Surgical capital equipment tends to be the primary source of this problem, as most of it performs a single, specialized task. Because of their specialized nature, surgeons may need to utilize multiple different types of equipment during a single surgical procedure, forcing operating rooms to stock two or even more pieces of surgical capital equipment, such as energy generators. Each of these pieces of surgical capital equipment must be individually plugged into a power source and may also be connected to one or more other devices passed among personnel in the operating room, leading to tangled cords and requiring guidance. Another problem faced in modern operating rooms is that each of these specialized pieces of surgical capital equipment must have its own user interface and be controlled independently of other pieces of equipment in the operating room. This makes it complex to connect and properly control multiple different devices, requiring users to be trained in and memorize different types of user interfaces (which may be further modified based on the task or surgical procedure being performed, in addition to changes between each piece of capital equipment). This cumbersome and complex process may require more individuals to be present in the operating room and can create danger if multiple devices are not properly controlled to each other. Therefore, integrating surgical capital equipment technology into a single system that flexibly addresses the surgeon's need to reduce the footprint of surgical capital equipment in the operating room will simplify the user experience, reduce clutter in the operating room, and prevent the difficulties and dangers associated with simultaneously controlling multiple pieces of capital equipment. Furthermore, making such a system scalable or customizable will allow new technologies to be conveniently incorporated into existing surgical systems, eliminating the need to replace the entire surgical system or requiring operating room personnel to learn new user interfaces or equipment controls for each new technology.

[0067] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the surgical hub 106 can be configured to interchangeably accept various modules, which can interface with surgical devices (e.g., surgical instruments or smoke extractors) or provide various other functions (e.g., communication). In one embodiment, the surgical hub 106 can be embodied as a modular energy system 2000, as shown in relation to Figures 6 to 12. The modular energy system 2000 may include various different modules 2001 that are interconnected in a stacked configuration. In one embodiment, the modules 2001 can be physically and communicatively coupled when stacked or when otherwise connected together to form a single assembly. Furthermore, the modules 2001 may be interchangeably connected to each other in different combinations or arrangements. In one embodiment, each module 2001 may include a consistent or universal array of connectors arranged along their upper and lower surfaces, thereby enabling any module 2001 to be connected to another module 2001 in any arrangement (however, in some embodiments, certain module types, such as header modules 2002, may be configured to function, for example, as the topmost module in a stacked body). In an alternative embodiment, the modular energy system 2000 may include housings configured to receive and hold modules 2001, as shown in Figure 3. The modular energy system 2000 may also include a variety of different components or accessories that can be connected to or otherwise associated with modules 2001. In yet another embodiment, the modular energy system 2000 may be embodied as a generator module 140 of the surgical hub 106 (Figure 3). In yet another embodiment, the modular energy system 2000 may be a system separate from the surgical hub 106. In such an embodiment, the modular energy systems 2000 may be connectable to the surgical hub 206 in a communicative manner for transmitting and / or receiving data between them.

[0068] The modular energy system 2000 can be assembled from various different modules 2001, some examples of which are shown in Figure 6. Each of the different types of modules 2001 can provide a different function, thereby allowing the modular energy system 2000 to be assembled into different configurations and thus the functions and capabilities of the modular energy system 2000 to be customized by customizing the modules 2001 included in each modular energy system 2000. The modules 2001 of the modular energy system 2000 may include, for example, a header module 2002 (which may include a display screen 2006), an energy module 2004, a technology module 2040, and a visualization module 2042. In the illustrated embodiment, the header module 2002 is configured to function as the top or topmost module in the modular energy system stack and therefore may lack connectors along its top surface. In another embodiment, the header module 2002 may be configured to be located at the bottom of the modular energy system stack or to be the bottommost module and therefore may lack connectors along its bottom surface. In yet another embodiment, the header module 2002 may be configured to be positioned in an intermediate location within the modular energy system stack, and therefore may include connectors along both its bottom and top surfaces. The header module 2002 may be configured to control system-wide settings for each module 2001 and its connected components through a physical control unit 2011 on the header module 2002 and / or through a graphical user interface (GUI) 2008 displayed on a display screen 2006. Such settings may include the activation of the modular energy system 2000, alarm volume settings, foot switch settings, setting icons, the appearance or configuration of the user interface, the surgeon profile logged into the modular energy system 2000, and / or the type of surgical procedure being performed.The header module 2002 may also be configured to provide communication, processing, and / or power to module 2001 connected to the header module 2002. The energy module 2004, also referred to as generator module 140 (Figure 3), may be configured to generate one or more energy modalities for driving connected electrosurgical and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments. The technology module 2040 may be configured to provide additional or extended control algorithms (e.g., electrosurgical or ultrasonic control algorithms for controlling the energy output of energy module 2004). The visualization module 2042 may be configured to interface with a visualization device (i.e., a scope) and thus can provide enhanced visualization capabilities.

[0069] The modular energy system 2000 may further include various accessories 2029 that are connectable to module 2001 to control the functions of module 2001, or otherwise configured to function in conjunction with the modular energy system 2000. Examples of accessories 2029 may include a single-pedal footswitch 2032, a dual-pedal footswitch 2034, and a cart 2030 for supporting the modular energy system 2000. Footswitches 2032 and 2034 may be configured, for example, to control the activation or function of specific energy modalities output by energy module 2004.

[0070] By utilizing modular components, the illustrated modular energy system 2000 provides a surgical platform that grows with the availability of technology and can be customized to the needs of facilities and / or surgeons. Furthermore, the modular energy system 2000 supports combo devices (e.g., electrosurgical and ultrasonic energy dual generators) and software-driven algorithms for customized effects on tissue. Moreover, the surgical system architecture reduces the footprint of capital equipment by combining multiple technologies crucial for surgical procedures into a single system.

[0071] Various modular components available in connection with the modular energy system 2000 may include unipolar energy generators, bipolar energy generators, dual electrosurgical / ultrasonic energy generators, display screens, and various other modules and / or other components, some of which are also described above in relation to Figures 1 to 3.

[0072] Referring here to Figure 7A, the header module 2002 may, in some embodiments, include a display screen 2006 that displays a GUI 2008 for relaying information about modules 2001 connected to the header module 2002. In some embodiments, the GUI 2008 on the display screen 2006 can provide an integrated control point for all modules 2001 constituting a particular configuration of the modular energy system 2000. Various embodiments of the GUI 2008 are discussed below in more detail with reference to Figure 12. In alternative embodiments, the header module 2002 may lack a display screen 2006, or the display screen 2006 may be detachably connected to the housing 2010 of the header module 2002. In such embodiments, the header module 2002 may be communicably coupled to an external system configured to display information generated by modules 2001 of the modular energy system 2000. For example, in a robotic surgery application, the modular energy system 2000 may be communicatively coupled to a robotic cart or robotic control console, which is configured to display information generated by the modular energy system 2000 to the operator of the robotic surgery system. In another example, the modular energy system 2000 may be communicatively coupled to a mobile display that can be carried to or attached to the surgeon for viewing. In yet another example, the modular energy system 2000 may be communicatively coupled to another computer system that may include a surgical hub 2100 or a display 2104, as shown in Figure 11. In embodiments utilizing a user interface separate from or otherwise distinguished from the modular energy system 2000, the user interface may be wirelessly connectable to the entire modular energy system 2000, or to one or more of its modules 2001, so that the user interface can display information from the connected modules 2001.

[0073] Referring further to Figure 7A, the energy module 2004 may include a port assembly 2012 containing several different ports, each configured to deliver different energy modalities to corresponding surgical instruments connectable to its respective port. In the particular embodiments shown in Figures 6–12, the port assembly 2012 includes a bipolar port 2014, a first unipolar port 2016a, a second unipolar port 2016b, a neutral port 2018 (to which a unipolar return pad can be connected), and a combined energy port 2020. However, this particular combination of ports is provided for illustrative purposes only, and alternative combinations of ports and / or energy modalities may be possible for the port assembly 2012.

[0074] As described above, the modular energy system 2000 can be assembled into different configurations. Furthermore, different configurations of the modular energy system 2000 may also be available for different surgical procedure types and / or different tasks. For example, Figures 7A and 7B show a first exemplary configuration of the modular energy system 2000, which includes a header module 2002 (including a display screen 2006) and an energy module 2004 connected together. Such a configuration may be suitable, for example, for laparoscopic and open surgical procedures.

[0075] Figure 8A shows a second exemplary configuration of the modular energy system 2000, which includes a header module 2002 (including a display screen 2006) connected together, a first energy module 2004a, and a second energy module 2004b. By stacking the two energy modules 2004a and 2004b, the modular energy system 2000 can provide a pair of port assemblies 2012a and 2012b for extending the array of energy modalities deliverable from the first configuration by the modular energy system 2000. Thus, the second configuration of the modular energy system 2000 can accommodate two or more bipolar / unipolar electrosurgical instruments, three or more bipolar / unipolar electrosurgical instruments, and so on. Such a configuration may be particularly suitable for complex laparoscopic and open surgical procedures. Figure 8B shows a third exemplary configuration similar to the second configuration, except that the header module 2002 lacks the display screen 2006. As described above, this configuration may be suitable for robotic surgery applications or mobile display applications.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a fourth exemplary configuration of a modular energy system 2000, including a header module 2002 (including a display screen 2006) connected together, a first energy module 2004a, a second energy module 2004b, and a technology module 2040. Such a configuration may be particularly suitable for surgical applications requiring complex or computationally intensive control algorithms. Alternatively, the technology module 2040 may be a newly released module that complements or extends the functionality of a previously released module (such as the energy module 2004).

[0077] Figure 10 shows a fifth exemplary configuration of the modular energy system 2000, which includes a header module 2002 (including a display screen 2006) connected together, a first energy module 2004a, a second energy module 2004b, a technology module 2040, and a visualization module 2042. Such a configuration may be suitable for endoscopic procedures by providing a dedicated surgical display 2044 for relaying a video feed from a scope coupled to the visualization module 2042. It should be noted that the configurations shown in Figures 7A to 11 and described above are provided merely to illustrate various concepts of the modular energy system 2000 and should not be interpreted as limiting the modular energy system 2000 to any particular configuration described above.

[0078] As described above, the modular energy system 2000 may be communicatively coupled to an external system such as a surgical hub 2100, as shown in Figure 11. Such an external system may include a display screen 2104 for displaying visual feeds from an endoscope (or camera or another such visualization device) and / or data from the modular energy system 2000. Such an external system may also include a computer system 2102 for performing calculations, or for analyzing data generated or provided by the modular energy system 2000 in other ways, for controlling the functions or modes of the modular energy system 2000, and / or for relaying data to a cloud computing system or another computer system. Such an external system may also coordinate the operation between multiple modular energy systems 2000 and / or other surgical systems (e.g., visualization system 108 and / or robotic system 110, as described in relation to Figures 1 and 2).

[0079] Next, referring to Figure 12, in some embodiments, the header module 2002 may include or support a display 2006 configured to display the GUI 2008 as described above. In addition to displaying information, the display screen 2006 may include a touchscreen for receiving input from the user. The control units displayed on the GUI 2008 may correspond to modules 2001 connected to the header module 2002. In some embodiments, different parts or areas of the GUI 2008 may correspond to specific modules 2001. For example, a first part or area of ​​the GUI 2008 may correspond to a first module, and a second part or area of ​​the GUI 2008 may correspond to a second module. When different and / or additional modules 2001 are connected to the modular energy system stack, the GUI 2008 may be configured to correspond to different and / or additional control units for each newly added module 2001, or to remove the control units of each module 2001 that is removed. Each portion of the display corresponding to a specific module connected to the header module 2002 can display the control unit, data, user prompts, and / or other information corresponding to that module. For example, in Figure 12, the first or upper portion 2052 of the illustrated GUI 2008 displays the control unit and data associated with the energy module 2004 connected to the header module 2002. Specifically, the first portion 2052 of the GUI 2008 for the energy module 2004 provides a first widget 2056a corresponding to the bipolar port 2014, a second widget 2056b corresponding to the first unipolar port 2016a, a third widget 2056c corresponding to the second unipolar port 2016b, and a fourth widget 2056d corresponding to the combined energy port 2020.Each of these widgets 2056a to 2056d provides a control unit for controlling data related to the corresponding port of the widget in the port assembly 2012, and the mode and other features of the energy modality delivered by the energy module 2004 through each port of the port assembly 2012. For example, widgets 2056a to 2056d may be configured to display the power level of a surgical instrument connected to their respective ports, and to change the operating mode of a surgical instrument connected to their respective ports (e.g., changing a surgical instrument from a first power level to a second power level, and / or changing a unipolar surgical instrument from "spray" mode to "blend" mode).

[0080] In one embodiment, the header module 2002 may include various physical control units 2011 in addition to or instead of the GUI 2008. Such physical control units 2011 may include, for example, power buttons that control the application of power to each module 2001 connected to the header module 2002 in the modular energy system 2000. Alternatively, the power buttons may be displayed as part of the GUI 2008. Thus, the header module 2002 can function as a single point of contact, eliminating the need to individually start and deactivate each individual module 2001 that makes up the modular energy system 2000.

[0081] In one embodiment, the header module 2002 can display still images, videos, moving images, and / or information associated with the surgical module 2001 on which the modular energy system 2000 is constructed, or with a surgical device communicatively coupled to the modular energy system 2000. Still images and / or videos displayed by the header module 2002 can be received from an endoscope or another visualization device communicatively coupled to the modular energy system 2000. Moving images and / or information in the GUI 2008 can be overlaid on or adjacent to the image or video feed.

[0082] In one embodiment, modules 2001 other than the header module 2002 can similarly be configured to relay information to the user. For example, the energy module 2004 may include optical assemblies 2015 arranged around each of the ports of the port assembly 2012. The optical assemblies 2015 can be configured to relay information about the ports to the user according to their color or state (e.g., blinking). For example, the optical assemblies 2015 can change from a first color to a second color when a plug is fully seated in each port. In one embodiment, the color or state of the optical assemblies 2015 may be controlled by the header module 2002. For example, the header module 2002 can cause the optical assembly 2015 of each port to display a color corresponding to the port color display on the GUI 2008.

[0083] Figure 13 is a block diagram of a standalone hub configuration of the modular energy system 3000 according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, and Figure 14 is a block diagram of a hub configuration of the modular energy system 3000 integrated with a surgical control system 3010 according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the modular energy system 3000 may be used as a standalone unit or integrated with a surgical control system 3010 that controls and / or receives data from one or more surgical hub units. In the embodiments shown in Figures 13 and 14, the integrated header / UI module 3002 of the modular energy system 3000 includes a header module and a UI module integrated together as a single module. In other aspects, the header module and the UI module may be provided as separate components that are communicably coupled via a data bus 3008.

[0084] As shown in Figure 13, an example of a standalone modular energy system 3000 includes an integrated header module / user interface (UI) module 3002 coupled to an energy module 3004. Power and data are transmitted between the integrated header / UI module 3002 and the energy module 3004 through a power interface 3006 and a data interface 3008. For example, the integrated header / UI module 3002 can send various commands to the energy module 3004 through the data interface 3008. Such commands may be based on user input from the UI. As a further example, power may be transmitted to the energy module 3004 through the power interface 3006.

[0085] In Figure 14, the surgical hub configuration includes a modular energy system 3000 integrated with a control system 3010, and, in particular, an interface system 3022 for managing data and power transmission to and from the modular energy system 3000. The modular energy system shown in Figure 14 includes an integrated header module / UI module 3002, a first energy module 3004, and a second energy module 3012. In one embodiment, a data transmission path is established between the system control unit 3024 of the control system 3010 and the second energy module 3012 (through the first energy module 3004) and the header / UI module 3002 (through the data interface 3008). In addition, a power path extends between the integrated header / UI module 3002 and the second energy module 3012 through the power interface 3006 and through the first energy module 3004. In other words, in one embodiment, the first energy module 3004 is configured to function as a power and data interface between the second energy module 3012 and the integrated header / UI module 3002 via a power interface 3006 and a data interface 3008. This configuration allows the modular energy system 3000 to be expanded by seamlessly connecting additional energy modules to the energy modules 3004 and 3012 already connected to the integrated header / UI module 3002, without requiring dedicated power and energy interfaces within the integrated header / UI module 3002.

[0086] A system control unit 3024, which may be referred to herein as a control circuit, control logic, microprocessor, microcontroller, logic, FPGA, or various combinations thereof, is coupled to a system interface 3022 via an energy interface 3026 and an appliance communication interface 3028. The system interface 3022 is coupled to a first energy module 3004 via a first energy interface 3014 and a first appliance communication interface 3016. The system interface 3022 is coupled to a second energy module 3012 via a second energy interface 3018 and a second appliance communication interface 3020. When additional modules, such as additional energy modules, are stacked within the modular energy system 3000, additional energy and communication interfaces are provided between the system interface 3022 and the additional modules.

[0087] Energy modules 3004, 3012 are connectable to a hub and can be configured to generate electrosurgical energy (e.g., bipolar or unipolar), ultrasonic energy, or a combination thereof (referred to herein as “high-energy” modules) for various energy surgical instruments. Generally, energy modules 3004, 3012 include a hardware / software interface, an ultrasonic controller, a high-energy RF controller, a bipolar RF controller, and a control algorithm executed by a controller that receives the output from the controllers and controls the operation of the various energy modules 3004, 3012 accordingly. In various aspects of this disclosure, the controller described herein may be implemented as a control circuit, control logic, microprocessor, microcontroller, logic, or FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0088] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 13 and 14, the modules of the modular energy system 3000 may include optical links that enable high-speed communication (10–50 Mb / sec) across the patient's isolation boundary. These links transmit device communications, relaxation signals (such as watchdog signals), and low-bandwidth runtime data. In some embodiments, the optical link(s) may not include real-time sampling data that can be performed on the non-isolated side.

[0089] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 13 and 14, a module of the modular energy system 3000 may include a multifunction circuit block capable of (i) reading the present resistance value via an A / D and current source, (ii) communicating with legacy instruments via the hand switch Q protocol, (iii) communicating with instruments via the local bus 1-Wire protocol, and (iv) communicating with CAN FD-compatible surgical instruments. When a surgical instrument is properly identified by the energy generator module, the associated pin functions and communication circuits are activated, while other unused functions are disabled or disconnected and set to a high impedance state.

[0090] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 13 and 14, a module of the modular energy system 3000 may include a pulse / stimulus / auxiliary amplifier. This is a flexible amplifier based on a full-bridge output and incorporates functional isolation. This allows its differential output to reference any output connection on the applied portion (except, in some embodiments, a unipolar active electrode). The amplifier output may be either small signal linear (pulse / stimulus) with waveform drive provided by a DAC or square wave drive, with moderate output power for DC applications such as DC motors, lighting, and FET drives. Output voltage and current are sensed by functionally isolated voltage and current feedback to provide accurate impedance and power measurements to the FPGA. Paired with a CAN FD-enabled device, this output can provide motor / motion control drive, while position or velocity feedback is provided by a CAN FD interface for closed-loop control.

[0091] As described in more detail herein, a modular energy system comprises a header module and one or more functional or surgical modules. In various examples, a modular energy system is a modular energy system. In various examples, a surgical module includes an energy module, a communication module, and a user interface module, but a surgical module is assumed to be any suitable type of functional or surgical module for use with a modular energy system.

[0092] Modular energy systems offer many advantages in surgical procedures, as described above in relation to modular energy systems 2000 (Figures 6-12) and 3000 (Figures 13-15). However, cable management and setup / disassembly times can be a major deterrent. Various aspects of this disclosure provide a modular energy system having a single power cable and a single power switch for controlling the startup and shutdown of the entire modular energy system, thereby eliminating the need to individually start and stop each individual module on which the modular energy system is constructed. Furthermore, various aspects of this disclosure provide a modular energy system having a power management scheme that facilitates safety and, in some cases, simultaneous power delivery to the modules of the modular energy system.

[0093] In various embodiments, the modular energy system 6000 is similar in many respects to the modular energy systems 2000 (Figures 6-12) and 3000 (Figures 13-15), as shown in Figure 15. For brevity, various details of the modular energy system 6000, which is similar to the modular energy system 2000 and / or the modular energy system 3000, will not be repeated herein.

[0094] The modular energy system 6000 comprises a header module 6002 and "N" surgical modules 6004, where "N" is an integer of 1 or more. In various embodiments, the modular energy system 6000 includes UI modules, such as UI module 3030, and / or communication modules, such as communication module 3032. Furthermore, pass-through hub connectors connect the individual modules to each other in a stacked configuration. In the embodiment of Figure 15, the header module 6002 is connected to the surgical modules 6004 via pass-through hub connectors 6005, 6006.

[0095] The modular energy system 6000 features an exemplary power architecture consisting of a single AC / DC power supply 6003 that provides power to all surgical modules within the stacked body. The AC / DC power supply 6003 is housed within a header module 6002 and utilizes a power backplane 6008 to distribute power to each module within the stacked body. The embodiment in Figure 15 shows three separate power domains on the power backplane 6008: a primary power domain 6009, a standby power domain 6010, and an Ethernet switch power domain 6013.

[0096] In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, the power backplane 6008 extends from the header module 6002 through several intermediate modules 6004 to the bottommost or furthest module in the stacked body. In various embodiments, the power backplane 6008 is configured to deliver power to the surgical modules 6004 through one or more other surgical modules 6004 located ahead of it in the stacked body. The surgical modules 6004, which receive power from the header module 6002, can be coupled to surgical instruments or tools configured to deliver therapeutic energy to the patient.

[0097] The primary power domain 6009 is the primary power source for the functional module-specific circuits 6013, 6014, and 6015 of modules 6002 and 6004. It consists of a single voltage rail provided to all modules. In at least one embodiment, the nominal voltage of 60V can be selected to be higher than the local rail required by any module, and as a result, the module can implement buck regulating exclusively, which is generally more efficient than boost regulating.

[0098] In various embodiments, the primary power domain 6009 is controlled by the header module 6002. In a particular example, a local power switch 6018 is located on the header module 6002, as shown in Figure 15. In a particular example, a remote on / off interface 6016 may be configured to control, for example, the system power control unit 6017 on the header module 6002. In at least one embodiment, the remote on / off interface 6016 is configured to transmit pulsed individual commands (separate commands for on and off) as well as power state telemetry signals. In various embodiments, the primary power domain 6009 is configured to distribute power to all modules in a stacked configuration after power-up initiated by the user.

[0099] In various embodiments, as shown in Figure 16, the modules of the modular energy system 6000 can be coupled to a header module 6002 and / or to each other in a communicative manner via a communication (serial bus / Ethernet) interface 6040, so that data or other information is shared by and among the modules that make up the modular energy system. An Ethernet switch domain 6013 can be derived, for example, from a primary power domain 6009. The Ethernet® switch power domain 6013 is isolated into a separate power domain configured to supply power to the Ethernet® switches in each of the modules in the stacked configuration, so that the primary communication interface 6040 continues to operate when local power to the modules is removed. In at least one embodiment, the primary communication interface 6040 comprises a 1000BASE-T Ethernet network, where each module represents a node on the network, and each module downstream of the header module 6002 includes a 3-port Ethernet switch for routing traffic to local modules or for properly passing data upstream or downstream.

[0100] Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the modular energy system 6000 includes a secondary, low-speed, intermodal communication interface for critical power-related functions, including module power sequencing and module power status. The secondary communication interface may be, for example, a multidrop local interconnect network (LIN), where the header module is the master and all downstream modules are slaves.

[0101] In various embodiments, as shown in Figure 15, the standby power domain 6010 is a separate output from the AC / DC power supply 6003, which is always operational when the power source is connected to the main power supply 6020. The standby power domain 6010 is used by all modules in the system to power circuits for relaxed communication interfaces and to control local power to each module. Furthermore, the standby power domain 6010 is configured to provide power to circuits that are important in standby mode, such as on / off command detection, status LEDs, and secondary communication buses.

[0102] In various configurations, as shown in Figure 15, individual surgical modules 6004 lack independent power sources and therefore rely on header modules 6002 to supply power in a stacked configuration. Only header modules 6002 are directly connected to the main power supply 6020. Surgical modules 6004 lack a direct connection to the main power supply 6020 and can only receive power in a stacked configuration. This arrangement improves the safety of individual surgical modules 6004 and reduces the overall footprint of the modular energy system 6000. This arrangement further reduces the number of cords required for the proper operation of the modular energy system 6000, thereby reducing clutter and footprint in the operating room.

[0103] Therefore, in a stacked configuration, surgical instruments connected to the surgical module 6004 of the modular energy system 6000 receive energy for tissue treatment generated by the surgical module 6004 from power delivered to the surgical module 6004 from the AC / DC power supply 6003 of the header module 6002.

[0104] In at least one embodiment, while the header module 6002 is assembled with the first surgical module 6004' in a stacked configuration, energy can flow from the AC / DC power supply 6003 to the first surgical module 6004'. Furthermore, while the header module 6002 is assembled with the first surgical module 6004' (connected to the header module 6002) and the second surgical module 6004'' (connected to the first surgical module 6004') in a stacked configuration, energy can flow from the AC / DC power supply 6003 to the second surgical module 6004'' through the first surgical module 6004'.

[0105] Energy generated by the AC / DC power supply 6003 of the header module 6002 is transmitted through a segmented power backplane 6008 defined via a modular energy system 6000. In the embodiment of Figure 15, the header module 6002 houses the power backplane segment 6008', the first surgical module 6004' houses the power backplane segment 6008'', and the second surgical module 6004'' houses the power backplane segment 6008'''. In a stacked configuration, the power backplane segment 6008' is detachably coupled to the power backplane segment 6008''. Furthermore, in a stacked configuration, the power backplane 6008'' is detachably coupled to the power backplane segment 6008'''. Thus, energy flows from the AC / DC power supply 6003 to the power backplane segment 6008', then to the power backplane segment 6008'', and then to the power backplane segment 6008''''.

[0106] In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, power backplane segment 6008' is detachably connected to power backplane segment 6008'' via pass-through hub connectors 6005 and 6006 in the stacked configuration. Furthermore, power backplane segment 6008'' is detachably connected to power backplane segment 6008'''' via pass-through hub connectors 6025 and 6056 in the stacked configuration. In certain examples, removing a surgical module from the stacked configuration disconnects its connection to power supply 6003. For example, separating the second surgical module 6004'' from the first surgical module 6004' disconnects power backplane segment 6008' from power backplane segment 6008''. However, as long as header module 6002 and the first surgical module 6004' remain in the stacked configuration, the connection between power backplane segment 6008'' and power backplane segment 6008'' remains intact. Therefore, energy can still flow to the first surgical module 6004'' through the connection between the header module 6002 and the first surgical module 6004'' after the second surgical module 6004'' has been cut. Separating the connected modules can be achieved in certain examples simply by pulling the surgical module 6004 apart.

[0107] In the example shown in Figure 15, each of modules 6002 and 6004 includes a relaxed module control unit 6023. The relaxed module control unit 6023 is coupled to a corresponding local power adjustment module 6024, which is configured to adjust power based on input from the relaxed module control unit 6023. In some embodiments, the relaxed module control unit 6023 allows the header module 6002 to independently control the local power adjustment module 6024.

[0108] The modular energy system 6000 further includes a relaxed communication interface 6021, which includes a segmented communication backplane 6027 extending between relaxed module control units 6023. The segmented communication backplane 6027 is similar in many respects to the segmented power backplane 6008. Relaxed communication between the relaxed module control unit 6023 of the header module 6002 and the surgical module 6004 can be achieved through the segmented communication backplane 6027 defined through the modular energy system 6000. In the embodiment of Figure 15, the header module 6002 houses the communication backplane segment 6027', the first surgical module 6004' houses the communication backplane segment 6027'', and the second surgical module 6004'' houses the communication backplane segment 6027'''. The communication backplane segment 6027' is detachably coupled to the communication backplane segment 6027'' in a stacked configuration via pass-through hub connectors 6005 and 6006. Furthermore, the communication backplane 6027'' is detachably coupled to the communication backplane segment 6027'' in a stacked configuration via pass-through hub connectors 6025 and 6026.

[0109] The embodiment in Figure 15 shows that the modular energy system 6000 includes, but is not limited to, a header module 6002 and two surgical modules 6004', 6004''. Modular energy systems having more or fewer surgical modules are contemplated by this disclosure. In some embodiments, the modular energy system 6000 includes other modules, such as a communications module. In some embodiments, the header module 6502 supports a display screen, such as a display 2006 (Figure 7A), which renders a GUI, such as a GUI 2008, for relaying information about the modules connected to the header module 6002. In some embodiments, the GUI 2008 on the display screen 2006 can provide an aggregated point for controlling all the modules that constitute a particular configuration of the modular energy system.

[0110] Figure 16 shows a simplified schematic diagram of the modular energy system 6000, illustrating the primary communication interface 6040 between the header module 6002 and the surgical module 6004. The primary communication interface 6040 enables communication between the module processors 6041, 6041'', 6041'', of the header module 6002 and the surgical module 6004. Commands generated by the module processor 6041 of the header module are transmitted downstream to the desired functional surgical module via the primary communication interface 6040. In certain examples, the primary communication interface 6040 is configured to establish a bidirectional communication path between adjacent modules. In other examples, the primary communication interface 6040 is configured to establish a unidirectional communication path between adjacent modules.

[0111] Furthermore, the primary communication interface 6040 includes a segmented communication backplane 6031 that is in many respects similar to the segmented power backplane 6008. Communication between the header module 6002 and the surgical module 6004 can be achieved via the segmented communication backplane 6031 defined through the modular energy system 6000. In the embodiment of Figure 16, the header module 6002 houses the communication backplane segment 6031', the first surgical module 6004' houses the communication backplane segment 6031'', and the second surgical module 6004'' houses the communication backplane segment 6031'''. The communication backplane segment 6031' is detachably coupled to the communication backplane segment 6031'' in a stacked configuration via pass-through hub connectors 6005, 6006. Furthermore, the communication backplane 6031'' is detachably coupled to the communication backplane segment 6031'' in the stacked configuration via pass-through hub connectors 6025 and 6026.

[0112] In at least one embodiment, as shown in Figure 16, the primary communication interface 6040 is implemented using a DDS framework running on a Gigabit Ethernet interface. Module processors 6041, 6041', 6041'' are connected to the Gigabit Ethernet Fi 6044 and the Gigabit Ethernet switches 6042', 6042''. In the embodiment of Figure 16, a segmented communication backplane 6031 connects the Gigabit Ethernet Fi 6044 and the Gigabit Ethernet switch 6042 of adjacent modules.

[0113] In various embodiments, as shown in Figure 16, the header module 6002 includes a processor module 6041 of the header module 6002 and a separate Gigabit Ethernet port 6045 for the external communication interface 6043. In at least one embodiment, the processor module 6041 of the header module 6002 handles firewall and information routing.

[0114] Referring to Figure 15, the AC / DC power supply 6003 may provide an AC status signal 6011 indicating the loss of AC power supplied by the AC / DC power supply 6003. The AC status signal 6011 is provided to all modules of the modular energy system 6000 via a segmented power backplane 6008 so that each module can tolerate as much time as possible for a graceful shutdown before primary output power is lost. The AC status signal 6011 is received, for example, by module-specific circuits 6013, 6014, and 6015. In various embodiments, the system power control unit 6017 may be configured to detect AC power loss. In at least one embodiment, AC power loss is detected via one or more preferred sensors.

[0115] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, to ensure that a localized power failure in one of the modules of the modular energy system 6000 does not disable the entire power bus, the primary power inputs to all modules can be merged, or similar methods can be used to limit the current (e.g., electronic fuses, circuit breakers). Furthermore, the Ethernet switch power is isolated to a separate power domain 6013 so that the primary communication interface 6040 remains operational when localized power to the module is removed. In other words, primary power can be removed from and / or diverted from the surgical modules without losing its ability to communicate with the other surgical modules 6004 and / or the header module 6002.

[0116] Surgical procedure automation via modular energy systems Having described the general implementation configurations of headers and modules for modular energy systems 2000, 3000, and 6000, this disclosure now describes various other embodiments of modular energy systems. These other modular energy systems are substantially similar to modular energy systems 2000, 3000, and / or 6000. For brevity, various details of the other modular energy systems described in the following sections, which are similar to modular energy systems 2000, 3000, and / or 6000, will not be repeated herein. Any embodiment of the other modular energy systems described below can be incorporated into modular energy systems 2000, 3000, or 6000.

[0117] Case procedure via modular energy systems When surgical procedures are performed using various embodiments of a modular energy system disclosed in surgery, data related to the procedure may be collected and stored. For example, the modular energy system may collect and store data corresponding to when an energy port is activated, the energy modality provided by the activated port, the power level provided by the activated port, the activation time, and how the port was activated (e.g., a first single-pedal foot switch, a second single-pedal foot switch, a dual-pedal foot switch, etc.). By reviewing and analyzing the collected data, surgeons and other users can gain useful insights related to their and other users' performance during surgical procedures. However, as with any integrated visualization system, there are challenges associated with sorting the large amount of collected data. For example, it may not be meaningful for a surgeon to compare unsorted data collected across multiple surgical procedures, as the complexity of each surgical procedure may differ. Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods for organizing data collected by a modular energy system based on the specific surgical procedure being performed.

[0118] In one aspect of this disclosure, data collected by a modular energy system during a surgical procedure is organized based on a predetermined procedure checklist. Furthermore, each step of the predetermined checklist corresponds to a psychological model that the surgeon can follow during a given procedure. The predetermined checklist may be displayed on a display screen of the modular energy system. Throughout the procedure, the surgeon interacts with the modular energy system to determine when each step of the checklist is completed.

[0119] For example, when a surgeon performs a surgical procedure, the display screen can show the current expected step of the procedure based on a predefined procedure checklist. In an alternative embodiment, the display screen can show all expected steps of the surgical procedure, plus the current expected step. The surgeon then indicates when the current step of the procedure is completed by "flaggling" the step. Flagging can be performed by interacting with a touchscreen graphical user interface (GUI) rendered on the display screen, by voice commands, by using a keyboard connected to a modular energy system, or by other means. If the surgeon determines that a step on the predefined checklist has not been performed while performing a surgical procedure, the surgeon can manually skip or override that step. The process of flagging each step continues until all steps on the predefined checklist are completed. In other cases, a surgical procedure may require multiple checklists (e.g., sleeve gastrectomy with cholecystectomy), in which case each checklist is displayed, flagged by the surgical unit, and the entire procedure is completed. The modular energy system organizes the collected data based on the corresponding flagged steps of the surgical procedure. The organized data is recorded in an event log for future use. As a result, by accessing the event log, surgeons and other users can beneficially review data related to the surgical procedure based on the low-level steps of the procedure to which the data is associated.

[0120] In another aspect of this disclosure, the surgeon may choose not to use a default checklist. In this case, the surgeon performing the surgical procedure may freely flag each step of the procedure as it is completed. These flagged steps are timestamped by the modular energy system. Furthermore, step descriptions may be added by the surgeon or another user (e.g., via a touchscreen GUI, voice commands, keyboard, etc.). As described above, the modular energy system organizes the data collected based on the corresponding flagged steps of the surgical procedure and records the data in an event log for future use. If neither the use of a default checklist nor manual flagging is desired, the surgical procedure can be performed without using either method.

[0121] There are many advantages associated with using a prescribed procedure checklist. Firstly, the use of checklists leads to the standardization of surgery. The use of standard checklists is increasing in the medical field, especially in relation to procedures considered routine. Using a prescribed checklist is useful for all operating room staff because it informs them which step of the surgical procedure is currently being performed. This is particularly useful for trained staff and for complex procedures involving many steps.

[0122] Furthermore, the use of a predetermined checklist with user-flagged steps advantageously allows for data separation. The separated data is easily reviewable by the surgeon. Moreover, by reviewing the separated data, the surgeon can better analyze their own performance during the procedure. For example, a surgeon might find that, compared to another group (e.g., surgeons worldwide, national surgeons, or surgeons in the same hospital), their access is slow but their excision is very fast. This type of data organization also provides insight into how surgeons' skills differ. Furthermore, the memorized data can be paired with visual recordings of the surgical procedure. This pairing is beneficial because it allows the visual recordings to be separated into sub-videos based on each procedure step, enabling a more organized and faster review of the recordings. Information on specific steps may also be displayed along with the sub-videos. This can be particularly useful for training surgeons and other staff.

[0123] In addition, separating data based on a predetermined treatment checklist can be useful for modular energy system manufacturers. For example, separated data allows for easier comparisons across multiple treatments. Because the data can be compared more easily, users are more willing to share data with manufacturers.

[0124] Referring to Figure 17, process 1800 for organizing data collected during a surgical procedure begins at procedure start screen 1802. At procedure start screen 1802, the modular energy system's display screen prompts the user (e.g., a surgeon) to choose whether to use a pre-written list, free input, or no input at all. If a pre-written list (or a given checklist) is selected, the user is prompted at 1804 to select an appropriate checklist for the procedure. Once a checklist is selected, the user can begin performing the surgical procedure, at which point the modular energy system awaits input at 1806. When the user completes the first step of the surgical procedure associated with the first step of the checklist, the user provides input at 1808 instructing the system to flag the first step. At this point, the system associates a timestamp and description with the data collected during the first step of the procedure. The modular energy system also displays the next step of the given checklist on the display screen and awaits further input at 1806. This process is repeated for all steps of the checklist. If the user wishes to change or modify the checklist being used, they can provide input for case modification in 1812. The user is then prompted to select the appropriate checklist in 1804, and the process continues. Once the surgical procedure is complete, the user provides input in 1810 indicating that the case is complete, and the process returns to the procedure start screen 1802.

[0125] Alternatively, if the user selects the free input option on the procedure initiation screen 1802, the user may begin executing the surgical procedure, at which point the modular energy system awaits input at 1814. When the user completes the first step of the surgical procedure, the user provides input at 1816 instructing the system to flag the first step. At this point, the system associates a timestamp with the data collected during the first step of the procedure. The user may also be prompted to provide a description of the completed step. The system then awaits further input at 1814. When the user completes the next step of the procedure, the user again provides input at 1816 instructing the system to flag the step. This process is repeated until the user provides input at 1818 indicating that the case is complete, and the process returns to the procedure initiation screen 1802.

[0126] If the user selects the "no input" option on the procedure initiation screen 1802, the user may begin performing the surgical procedure, at which point the modular energy system awaits input on 1820. The process remains on unit 1820, and the user provides input on 1822 indicating that the case is complete, and the process returns to the procedure initiation screen 1802.

[0127] Figure 18 shows a modular energy system that displays the current step of a given checklist. The modular energy system 1830 includes a header module 1832 having a display screen 1834. In this example, GUI 1838A is rendered on the display screen 1834 and displays the current step of a default checklist (e.g., 3.0 mobilize the stomach). Alternatively, as shown in Figure 19, the modular energy system can display all steps of a given checklist. In this example, GUI 1838B is rendered on the display screen 1834 and displays not only the current step of the procedure (e.g., 3.0 mobilize the stomach) but also completed steps (e.g., 1.0 prepare the patient, 2.0 create access) and future steps (e.g., 4.0 separate the stomach, 5.0 remove the stomach, 6.0 suture with staples, 7.0 close the patient).

[0128] Figure 20 shows a modular energy system configured for voice activation. The modular energy system 1830 includes a header module 1832 and a display screen 1834 with touchscreen functionality. In this example, the GUI 1838C is rendered on the display screen 1834 and displays a microphone symbol. When the user completes a step of the surgical procedure, the user touches the microphone symbol, indicating that a voice command is to be entered. Through the voice command, the user indicates that the step of the surgical procedure is complete. If the user is performing the procedure using the free-form input option described above, the user can also provide a voice command that includes a description of the completed step. Microphones mounted on the modular energy system 1830 capture the voice command. For example, the modular energy system 1830 may include microphones 1836A and / or 1836B located on the header module 1832. Alternatively, referring to Figure 21, microphones 1836C, 1836D, and / or 1836E may be located on the display screen 1834. Positioning the microphone on the display screen 1834 has the advantage of allowing the microphone to be included in upgrades of existing modular energy systems without the need to modify the entire header module. Similarly, to accommodate users who may have concerns about having a microphone in the operating room, positioning the microphone on the display screen allows for the easy construction of a non-microphone version of the modular energy system simply by using a different display screen.

[0129] Surgeon Profile Case Data Feedback As described above, by reviewing and analyzing the data collected by modular energy systems, surgeons and other users can gain valuable insights related to their performance during surgical procedures. For example, surgeons can advantageously identify areas where they can improve their instrument usage patterns compared to other surgeons. Technicians, engineers, and salespeople can also use the collected data to help troubleshoot instrument problems. However, because a large amount of data is collected by modular energy systems, it is difficult to quickly and easily access the most meaningful data. Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods that provide users with streamlined access to relevant information related to surgical procedures performed using modular energy systems.

[0130] In one aspect of this disclosure, a modular energy system provides feedback to a user (e.g., a surgeon) by presenting information about the user's usage patterns. Each user of the modular energy system may have a unique user profile. As described above, data is collected when the user “flags” or tags specific steps performed throughout a surgical procedure. Once the user enters these flags, the collected data is organized based on the corresponding procedure steps. The modular energy system is configured to present this organized data in a streamlined format. For example, the user can view an overview of their usage patterns for a particular procedure, or an overview of their usage patterns across multiple procedures. Usage pattern data related to a particular procedure may also be organized chronologically and displayed together with video recorded during the procedure. As will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 22–24, each of these data presentation methods can be viewed as a chart rendered on the display screen of the modular energy system.

[0131] Figure 22 shows the display screen 1842 of a modular energy system 1840 displaying usage pattern data related to an exemplary surgical procedure. The usage data shown on screen 1844A of the display screen 1842 is organized using bar graphs. In this example, the displayed surgical procedure summary (or case summary) includes four steps: mobilizing the stomach, separating the stomach, removing the stomach, and suturing with staples. For each step, the average transverse incision time, the number of transactions, and the number of instrument changes are visually displayed on the bar graph. Other types of usage pattern data and methods of visual presentation (e.g., line graphs, charts, etc.) can be similarly implemented using the modular energy system. This type of information presentation is beneficial because it allows users to easily visualize their own instrument usage patterns and evaluate their performance related to specific surgical procedures.

[0132] Figure 23 shows the display screen 1842 of a modular energy system 1840 that displays usage pattern data based on an exemplary user profile across multiple surgical procedures. The usage data shown on screen 1842B of the display screen 1844 is organized using bar graphs. In this example, the user's (e.g., surgeon) average transverse incision time, number of transactions, average ultrasound power level used, and average RF power level used for a particular surgical procedure (case) are compared to the average values ​​corresponding to usage data for other procedures (cases) performed by that user, as well as for the user's colleagues (e.g., other surgeons). By viewing screen 1844B, the surgeon can quickly identify, for example, that the average transverse incision time for a procedure just performed (this case example) is shorter than the average transverse incision time for other procedures (other cases) and similar to the average transverse incision time for their colleagues. Other types of usage pattern data and methods of visual presentation (e.g., line graphs, charts, etc.) can be similarly implemented using the modular energy system. This type of comparison is beneficial because it allows users to anticipate their future needs and behavior by comparing their usage patterns with those of their colleagues. As mentioned above, colleague groups can be defined and sorted geographically (for example, surgeons worldwide, surgeons nationwide, or surgeons in the same hospital).

[0133] Figure 24 shows the display screen 1842 of a modular energy system 1840 displaying transverse incision times for exemplary surgical procedures. The transverse incision time data shown on screen 1844C of display screen 1842 is organized using a line graph. In this example, the time required to perform each transverse incision in a procedure (case) is displayed across a line graph from left to right, corresponding to the time it takes for the transverse incisions to be performed over time. In this case as well, other types of usage pattern data and methods of visual presentation (e.g., line graphs, charts, etc.) can be similarly implemented using the modular energy system. Furthermore, screen 1844C also includes a video icon that, when selected by the user, allows the user to view a video recording of the procedure. This type of data organization advantageously allows the user to troubleshoot complaints. For example, if a surgeon consistently complains of longer transverse incision times than other surgeons and pad melting is observed, comparing the data displayed on screen 1844C with instrument usage advantageously allows for a faster complaint analysis. Technicians, sales representatives, or engineers troubleshooting complaints can identify issues on-site or remotely by accessing an overview similar to the one on screen 1844C. For further insight into the complaint, technicians, engineers, or sales representatives may also access paired video from a visualization system that correlates the modular energy system with captured data.

[0134] Figure 25 shows the display screen 1842 of a modular energy system 1840 displaying various usage patterns of exemplary surgical procedures. The usage pattern data shown on screen 1844D of display screen 1842 is organized using line graphs. In this example, the time required to perform each transverse incision during the procedure (case) is displayed from left to right across the line graph, corresponding to the transaction occurring over time. The harmonic or RF power levels used for each transverse incision are also displayed. In this case as well, other types of usage pattern data and methods of visual presentation (e.g., line graphs, charts, etc.) can be similarly implemented using the modular energy system. Furthermore, screen 1844D also includes a video icon that, when selected by the user, allows the user to view a video recording of the procedure. Using one or more screens similar to screen 1844D, the user may postoperatively analyze transverse incision times compared to the corresponding harmonic and RF power parameters used for the transverse incisions and determine how to better optimize the transverse incision times based on the power levels. In addition, users can use this chart as a basis for analyzing what happened during a long transverse incision or other data trends identified on the screen. Furthermore, if the data is linked to flagged steps of the procedure, users can review the video captured by the visualization system based on the timestamps corresponding to the flagged steps.

[0135] The modular energy system may also be configured to analyze core appliance usage patterns against appliance presets (e.g., power levels) and display the data in a format similar to that shown in screens 1844A-D. The modular energy system may be further configured to identify when usage patterns related to a given user profile change. Based on this identification, the modular energy system can prompt the user to update their appliance presets.

[0136] Extended Event Log Viewer In various aspects of this disclosure, a modular energy system may collect and store data relating to events that occur while the system is in use. Events may relate, for example, to instrument use (e.g., when an energy port is activated, the energy modality provided by the activated port, the power level provided by the activated port, the activation time, and how the port was activated). Events may also relate to instrument and other system hardware errors (e.g., when a handpiece is no longer functioning, when communication to a footswitch is lost, etc.). However, the modular energy system may also store and collect data relating to a number of other events that do not occur during surgical procedures (e.g., events related to output verification). Because a large amount of data is collected, it is difficult to guide the system through all recorded events. Therefore, there is a need for a system and method that allows the user easy access to an event log consisting of a subset of all recorded events, so that the event log improves the user experience for event guidance and troubleshooting.

[0137] In one aspect of this disclosure, a modular energy system can determine which events are related to a surgical procedure based on the detection of a predetermined set of events. For example, certain actions such as connecting, activating, and disconnecting various instruments may cause the modular energy system to recognize all events occurring during this predetermined set of events as events related to a particular procedure. Based on this recognition, the modular energy system can classify and group these events as surgical procedures. The modular energy system may also recognize when a set of events is related to something other than a surgical procedure. For example, inserting a verification key and proceeding with the activation of various energy ports may trigger the system to recognize a set of events as related to output verification. Using a graphical user interface rendered on the display screen of the modular energy system, a user can access an event log, which displays only a subset of all stored events, and the events in the event log are grouped based on different categories of system activity (e.g., surgical procedures, output verification, software updates, etc.). This easy-to-read graphical display of information related to classified events is advantageous in that it allows users (e.g., surgeons, technical support staff, etc.) to quickly evaluate and diagnose problems related to the modular energy system after they occur. Furthermore, the organization of the event log is advantageous in that it makes it easier for users to find and access relevant event information, as disclosed, for example, in the explanations accompanying Figures 26 to 31. The various graphical user interface (GUI) screens shown in Figures 26 to 31 can be rendered by a modular energy system display screen similar to the Display Screen 2006 and Graphical User 2008 interfaces shown, for example, in Figure 7A.The details of specific action events shown in Figures 26 to 31 are illustrative examples and are provided to help illustrate the general layout, organization, user interaction, and functionality of an event log according to at least one aspect of this disclosure.

[0138] Figure 26 is an exemplary set of GUI screens illustrating a typical architecture of a modular energy system event log. The configuration menu screen 1850 displays the configuration menu for the modular energy system GUI. The configuration menu screen 1850 can be accessed by tapping utility or configuration buttons displayed on the GUI main screen (not shown). To access the event log main screen 1860 from the configuration menu screen 1850, the user taps the event log button 1852. The event log main screen 1860 displays groupings of events recorded and / or stored by the modular energy system based on categories (e.g., actions, output verification, etc.). The table shown on the event log main screen 1860 contains rows related to each group of events (i.e., each action, output verification, etc.). The end of each row contains detail buttons (e.g., detail buttons 1875A, 1875B, 1875C, 1875D, etc.). When the user taps one of the detail buttons, the GUI displays an event log detail modal related to the selected specific grouping (i.e., actions). For example, if you tap the details button 1875D corresponding to the fourth action listed on the event log main screen 1860, the modular energy system will display the event log details modal 1870.

[0139] Figure 27 shows an exemplary GUI event log main screen for a modular energy system event log. The upper left of the event log main screen 1860 contains filtering options. For example, the user can filter which events are displayed by the event log main screen 1860 based on date by tapping the date filter button 1862. Similarly, the user can select which category of events is displayed (e.g., Action, Output Verification, etc.) by tapping the category filter dropdown menu 1864. Below the filter buttons is a table displaying information related to each group of events. In the example shown on the event log main screen 1860, only Actions are displayed. The upper right of the event log main screen 1860 contains the export button 1876, the log clear button 1878, and the exit button 1879. By tapping the export button 1876, the user can export event log data to an external source in the modular energy system. By tapping the log clear button 1878, the user can clear the event log in the modular energy system. Then, by tapping the exit button 1879, the user can exit the event log main screen 1860 and return to the GUI main screen.

[0140] Referring further to Figure 27, the actions are sorted in ascending order according to chronological order, as shown below the table headings for date 1866 and time 1868. A table heading for category 1870 is also included, below which the category for each group of events is displayed (e.g., action, output verification, software update, etc.). In one aspect of this disclosure, if multiple grouping categories are displayed on the event log main screen 1860, the user can tap the category heading 1870 to sort the table based on the category (i.e., action, output verification, etc.). The table displayed on the event log main screen 1860 also includes the duration 1872 and description 1874 for each action. For example, by looking at the event log main screen 1860, the user can identify that the fourth listed action, performed on March 30, 2021 at 11:42:22, lasted for 68 minutes. Furthermore, the user can identify that a handpiece error occurred during the action. If desired, the user can tap the details button 1875D to access the event log details modal and view additional details related to the events recorded during the procedure.

[0141] Figure 28 shows an exemplary GUI event log detail modal displaying information related to a bipolar energy modality. The top of the event log detail modal 1880A contains an overview of the details related to this exemplary procedure. For example, the date, start time, duration, and preset used for the procedure (i.e., default 20 minutes, complex laparoscopy 48 minutes) are summarized in the upper left part of the screen. The upper center part of the event log detail modal 1880A displays a graphical representation of the energy ports used during the procedure. Based on this mode screen, the user can identify that for this exemplary procedure, ports from two generator modules, namely the bipolar, monopolar 1, and high-energy ports of generator 1 and the monopolar 1 port of generator 2, were utilized. The upper right part of the event log detail modal 1880A also displays each footswitch used during the procedure (identified graphically and by the serial number or unique ID of each footswitch) and the plug to which each footswitch was connected. Below the procedure details summary, in the central and lower parts of the screen, the user has the option to select one of the energy ports used during the procedure and view a summary of events associated with that port. For example, in the event log details modal 1880A, the bipolar button 1882A is selected under the heading for Generator Module 1. Because this button is selected, the event log details modal 1880A displays the device number 1884A, mode 1886A, power level 1888A, total operating time 1890A, operating method 1892A, and any errors 1894A associated with this energy modality. To view a similar summary for other energy modalities of Generator 1 used during this exemplary procedure, the user may tap the single-pole 1 button 1882B or the high-energy button 1882C. Furthermore, the user can scroll within the modal to view other content. For example, by scrolling down, the user can view a summary of the energy modalities used during the procedure associated with Generator 2.

[0142] Figure 29 is an exemplary GUI event log detail modal displaying information related to a monopolar 1-energy modality. The top of event log detail modal 1880B contains the same overview of details related to this exemplary procedure as shown in event log detail modal 1880A. In event log detail modal 1880B under the heading Generator Module 1, the monopolar 1 button 1882B is selected. Because this button is selected, event log detail modal 1880B displays device number 1884B, excision information 1886B (including mode, power level, and startup time), coagulation (coag) information 1888B (including mode, power level, and startup time), startup method 1892B, and any errors 1894B related to this energy modality. To see a similar overview of other energy modalities used during the exemplary procedure related to Generator 1, the user may tap the bipolar button 1882A or the high energy button 1882C.

[0143] Figure 30 is an exemplary GUI event log details modal displaying information related to the advanced energy modality. The top of event log details modal 1880C contains the same summary of details related to this exemplary procedure as shown in event log details modals 1880A and B. In event log details modal 1880C, the advanced energy button 1882C is selected under the heading Generator Module 1. Because this button is selected, event log details modal 1880C displays the device ID 1884C, handpiece ID 1886B, number of remaining handpiece uses 1896C, maximum and minimum power levels 1888C, total startup time 1890C, startup method 1892C, and any errors related to this energy modality 1894C. The user may tap buttons related to other energy modalities (1882A and 1882B) of Generator 1 to return to an overview of each respective energy modality, or the user may scroll down to view an overview of energy modalities related to Generator 2 used during the procedure. The event log details modal 1880C also indicates that there were errors related to the advanced energy modality during this exemplary procedure. In detail, the advanced energy button 1882C has a warning symbol (in this example, the warning symbol is an exclamation mark enclosed in a triangle), and the error description is included below the error heading 1894C. Furthermore, the number of errors (one error in this example) is displayed in a bubble associated with the warning symbol. If one or more errors occur during a procedure related to one or more of the other energy modalities used, the errors will be displayed similarly in relation to the other energy modality buttons (e.g., 1882A and 1882B) and the error descriptions (e.g., 1894A and 1894B). By tapping on a given error description, a popup window within the event log details modal will display details related to the error.

[0144] Figure 31 shows an exemplary GUI event log details modal where error status information related to advanced energy modalities is displayed via a pop-up window. When viewing the event log details modal 1880C, tapping the error description in the table below the error heading 1894C brings up the error pop-up window 1898C. Generally, the error pop-up window displays the name of the error status, a description of the error status, and instructions on how the user can resolve the error status. For example, the error pop-up window 1898C indicates that a handpiece error occurred during treatment. Furthermore, the pop-up window 1898C explains that this error status means the handpiece is no longer functioning, and to resolve this error, the current handpiece should be replaced with a functioning handpiece.

[0145] QR code display for easy transmission of system event data In connection with the use of capital equipment, such as equipment related to various aspects of the modular energy systems disclosed herein, it may be difficult for users to communicate information related to the event to assist in troubleshooting when a problem or other event occurs. Similarly, it may be difficult for equipment support staff to collect information about the event from the user. Therefore, there is a need for a system and method for easily transmitting system event data related to modular energy systems.

[0146] In one aspect of this disclosure, a modular energy system may display a unique QR code (quick response code) when a system event (e.g., a system error) occurs. When an event occurs, the user is notified of both the event and the associated QR code (e.g., using a notification on the modular energy system's display screen). The user can then take a photograph of the QR code and send it to support staff (e.g., customer service, sales representatives, etc.). For example, the user may use a smartphone to capture the image and send it to support staff via email or text message. Alternatively, a smartphone application may be used to capture and interpret or transmit the code (see the section “Surgeon's Mobile Phone Application for Recording and Monitoring Surgical Procedures” below). The data carried by the QR code may be encrypted to protect confidential information. After receiving the image of the QR code, support staff can extract information related to the event. For example, the QR code may contain additional information useful for further diagnosing the event. Since QR codes can capture and transmit up to 3KB of data in a simple manner, support staff can advantageously receive this diagnostic information quickly and easily. As a result, they can provide better support to the user.

[0147] Surgery Mobile Phone Application for Recording and Monitoring Surgical Procedures As described above, various embodiments of the modular energy system collect and store data when surgical procedures are performed. Furthermore, the information derived from this data may be presented to the user via a graphical user interface (GUI) rendered on a display screen, via a dedicated surgical display, and / or via various other modules of the modular energy system. However, surgeons may still desire further methods for accessing clinical and record data. Therefore, it is necessary to further improve user connectivity and enhance access to information by using a mobile phone application that interacts with the modular energy system.

[0148] In at least one aspect of this disclosure, the modular energy system is configured to communicate with a user's smartphone via a smartphone application. The smartphone application may include several features to improve user connectivity and access to information related to the modular energy system. Each application can securely connect to the modular energy system. Furthermore, different applications may be specifically configured based on the type of surgery or medical specialty. For example, there may be one application dedicated to general surgery and several other applications dedicated to different specialties. In each application, the user (e.g., a surgeon) can select the type of surgical procedure they wish to perform. In other cases, the user may also be able to view data related to past procedures.

[0149] While performing a surgical procedure, the user may be able to view a graphical flow representing the steps of the procedure via a smartphone application. For example, the steps shown on the application may be similar to the checklist steps described in relation to Figures 17-19. Furthermore, by tapping icons displayed by the application, the user can identify or flag the completion of a procedure step, thereby causing the modular energy system to timestamp the step. The user may also request the modular energy system to capture a photograph of what is currently displayed on one or more of its display screens and associate the captured photograph with a specific step of the procedure. Furthermore, the user may use the application to record audio. In addition, the user may request that other data related to the modular energy system be sent to the smartphone. For example, during a procedure, the surgeon can view real-time measurements of the patient's abdominal pressure. The application may also have the ability to access the smartphone's camera to capture an image of a QR code® generated by other instruments of the modular energy system in response to an event (e.g., a system error), and either send the code to support staff or provide instructions to the user based on the code.

[0150] During the procedure, the smartphone application is intended to be used solely for the user's personal monitoring and recording of data, and not for controlling the operation of instruments used to perform the surgery; however, as an exception, the application may submit requests to the modular energy system to transmit data to the user's smartphone.

[0151] Guided output verification Standard hospital procedures often require output verification testing of electrosurgical generators annually or semi-annually. The output verification process involves connecting an electrosurgical unit (ESU) analyzer to various ports on the generator (e.g., port assembly 2012 of energy module 2004 shown in Figure 7A). Once the ESU analyzer is connected, the user (e.g., a biomedical technician) operates the connected ports on the electrosurgical generator at various power settings while the ESU analyzer is set to various resistance levels. The user repeats different combinations of power and resistance settings and records the results. These results are used to determine whether the power output of the electrosurgical generator conforms to the manufacturer's specifications. In systems with multiple power modalities, such as the modular energy systems described in various aspects of this disclosure, output verification testing can be considerably complex. For example, a user may need to repeatedly configure multiple power and resistance settings for multiple ports on multiple generators (e.g., port assemblies 2012a and 2012b of energy modules 2004a and 2004b shown in Figure 8A). This complexity can lead to errors during the output verification process. Furthermore, output verification can be a time-consuming process for users such as biomedical technicians, who often have broad responsibilities. Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods to improve the efficiency and reliability of the output verification process.

[0152] In one aspect of this disclosure, a system and method for guided output verification are disclosed. The user is guided through the output verification process by displaying step-by-step instructions via a graphical user interface (GUI) of a modular energy system. As part of this step-by-step process, the user can also activate an energy port with the appropriate mode and power level settings by simply tapping buttons displayed by the GUI.

[0153] The user can initiate inductive output verification (output verification mode) of the modular energy system by accessing the appropriate output verification button from the GUI settings screen. Alternatively, the modular energy system may automatically enter output verification mode when the user inserts an output verification key into the appropriate energy port of the modular energy system. The output verification key is a device that acts as an adapter, enabling the lead wires of the ESU analyzer to be connected to various power modalities in the neutral electrode port and the advanced energy port (see the section on output verification keys below). When in output verification mode, the GUI displays a menu from which the user can select any port of the energy module for testing. Once a port is selected, a pop-up prompts the user to insert the lead wires of the ESU analyzer into the appropriate port of the energy module and / or output the verification key. After the user confirms that this action has been taken, the modular energy system guides the user step-by step regarding which resistance level of the ESU analyzer and the associated mode and power level of the selected energy modality to verify. Unlike other electrosurgical generators that require the user to manually select the appropriate power level and mode, the guided power verification process disclosed herein allows the modular energy system to select and display the correct settings for the user as they proceed with the required tests. This is advantageous in that it improves the efficiency of the power verification process and reduces the possibility of errors. Furthermore, the sequence followed by the guided power verification process may be configured to match the sequence of processes described in the power verification chart included in the service manual for the modular energy system. This is advantageous in that it improves user understanding and can reduce the time required to complete the power verification tests. In addition, the guided power verification process may be configured so that at each point where the user must change the resistance on the ESU analyzer, a very clear stage gate ensures that the user does not proceed without making the change.Usability testing demonstrated that this guided output verification method is highly intuitive and significantly reduces the time required to complete output verification.

[0154] Referring to Figure 32, the exemplary process for guided output verification 1900 begins in step 1902 when an output verification key is inserted into the appropriate energy port of the modular energy system. Inserting the output verification key opens the output verification mode of the modular energy system in step 1904. As part of opening the output verification mode, the GUI of the modular energy system displays the output verification mode menu screen. After selecting the energy modality to test from the menu screen, in step 1906 the user is instructed to plug the leads of the ESU analyzer into the generator and / or verification key ports corresponding to the selected energy modality. Next, in step 1908 the GUI instructs the user to set the appropriate resistance level on the ESU analyzer (or load box). Once the user has set the appropriate resistance level, in step 1910 the user is instructed to select the mode and / or power level for the energy port. Next, in step 1912, the user activates the energy port by tapping the appropriate button on the GUI, and the user observes the ESU analyzer (load box) and records the measurement in step 1914. In an alternative embodiment, the user can activate the power using a foot pedal connected to the modular energy system. The modular energy system instructs the user to repeat steps 1910, 1912, and 1914 until all required modes and power levels for the selected port at the selected resistor have been tested. Once all modes and levels at the selected resistor have been tested, the modular energy system instructs the user in step 1908 to adjust the ESU analyzer to an additional resistance level, and steps 1910, 1912, and 1914 can be repeated again until all required modes and power levels at the new resistance level have been tested.If further ports need to be tested, the modular energy system instructs the user in step 1906 to insert the ESU analyzer's leads into the next port, and the process repeats steps 1908-1914 as needed for that port. If ports associated with different energy modules (i.e., generators) need to be tested, the process returns to step 1902, and the modular energy system instructs the user to insert the output verification key into the appropriate port of the next energy module. Again, the process repeats steps 1906-1914 as needed for that energy module. After all ports associated with all energy modules have been tested, the process ends in step 1916, and the modular energy system exits output verification mode.

[0155] In at least one embodiment of this disclosure, Figures 33–65 are exemplary GUI screens displayed by the modular energy system during a guided power verification process. Figure 33 is an exemplary GUI main screen 1920A of the modular energy system. To begin accessing power verification mode, the user taps the utility button (gear icon) in the upper right corner of the GUI main screen 1920A to display the utility menu screen. Figure 34 is an exemplary GUI utility menu screen 1920B. By tapping the system settings button in the lower right corner of the utility menu screen 1920B, the user displays the system settings screen of the modular energy system. Figure 35 is an exemplary GUI system settings screen 1922. Next, from the system settings screen 1922, the user taps the service button located on the left side. Tapping the service button displays various service options, including “Power Verification Test,” as shown in the central part of the system settings screen 1922. Below the “Power Verification Test” header, an image of the power verification key inserted into the appropriate energy port is displayed. The system configuration screen 1922 instructs the user to insert the output verification key as shown in the figure in order to start the output verification test. Figure 36 is a perspective view of the modular energy system displaying the GUI system configuration screen 1922, in which the user inserts the output verification key 1923 into the neutral electrode and high energy port of the energy module (i.e., generator). Once the user inserts the output verification key 1923 into the appropriate energy port while the system configuration screen 1922 is displayed, the modular energy system enters output verification mode. In other aspects of this disclosure, the modular energy system can be entered into output verification mode by inserting the output verification key 1923 at any time.

[0156] Figure 37 shows an exemplary GUI screen for inputting the output verification 1924. Screen 1924 for inputting the output verification displays a notification to the user indicating the estimated length of time required to complete the output verification test. The notification also prompts the user to ensure that they have an ESU analyzer with appropriate resistance capability (e.g., capable of reaching a resistance of 1250 ohms). The user is also notified that they can activate the generator (i.e., various modalities of the energy module) by interacting with the GUI touchscreen or an appropriate foot switch. Tapping the continue button located in the lower right corner of Screen 1924 for inputting the output verification causes the modular energy system to display the output verification mode main screen.

[0157] Figure 38 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1926A. The output verification mode main screen 1926A displays buttons representing various energy ports associated with a modular energy system. The top row of buttons (i.e., bipolar, monopolar, 1, monopolar 2, and altitude) represents ports associated with the first energy module (i.e., generator 1) of the modular energy system. The output verification mode main screen 1926A may also display a serial number associated with the first energy module above the top row of buttons. If there are two or more energy modules (two or more generators) associated with the modular energy system, the output verification mode main screen 1926A can display an additional row of energy port buttons corresponding to the energy ports of the additional energy modules. The user can start output verification of a specific port by tapping the appropriate energy port button. In the exemplary display on the output verification mode main screen 1926A, the bipolar energy port button has been tapped. This brings up the bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen.

[0158] Figure 39 shows an exemplary GUI bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen 1928A. The bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen 1928A instructs the user to insert the ESU analyzer leads into the appropriate ports to test the bipolar energy modality. These instructions include a visual representation of the leads connected to the appropriate ports. Figure 40 is a perspective view of the modular energy system showing the GUI bipolar ESU analyzer connection screen 1928A while the user is inserting the ESU analyzer leads 1929 into the bipolar energy ports. After the leads are connected as shown, the user taps the OK button to proceed to the bipolar setting resistance screen.

[0159] Figure 41 is an exemplary GUI bipolar setting resistance screen 1928B. In the bipolar setting resistance screen 1928B, the user is instructed to adjust the resistance of the ESU analyzer to an appropriate setting (e.g., 100 ohms). The setting of the ESU analyzer's resistance must be done manually by the user. For example, Figure 42 is a perspective view of the user adjusting the resistance level of the ESU analyzer 1931. Returning to Figure 41, after the user has appropriately adjusted the resistance of the ESU analyzer as instructed and tapped the confirmation button, the first bipolar test mode screen appears.

[0160] Figure 43 shows the first bipolar test mode screen 1928C of an exemplary GUI. The first bipolar test mode screen 1928C displays all modes and power levels that need to be tested for the bipolar energy modality. The first mode and power level being tested (i.e., micro 10W) ​​is highlighted on the first bipolar test mode screen 1928C. Also, next to the first power mode and power level is an activation button. This activation button appears only next to the current mode and power level being tested. Referring now to the first bipolar mode test screen 1928D in Figure 44, by pressing and holding the activation button, the modular energy system delivers energy at the corresponding mode and power level in the active row. Once energy is delivered, the power level displayed in the active row is highlighted. Once the energy is activated, the user can use an ESU analyzer to perform appropriate measurements. By releasing the activation button, the modular energy system stops delivering energy through the bipolar port. In another aspect of this disclosure, a foot pedal may be used to deliver energy to the modular energy system instead of a GUI touchscreen button. Referring to the first bipolar test mode screen 1928E shown in Figure 45, a foot pedal image is displayed instead of an activation button. The first bipolar mode test screen 1928E instructs the user to activate the power using the foot pedal. Similar to the activation button described above, pressing the foot pedal causes the modular energy system to deliver energy at the corresponding mode and power level of the active row. Once energy is delivered, the power level displayed on the active row may be highlighted. Once the energy is activated, the user can perform appropriate measurements using an ESU analyzer. By releasing the foot pedal, the modular energy system stops delivering energy through the bipolar port.Referring here to the first bipolar test mode screen 1928F in Figure 46, the user may continue to activate the bipolar energy in the first mode and power level (i.e., micro 10W) ​​by pressing the activation button as needed. The user can then press the next power level button (i.e., 80W) when ready to proceed to the second mode and power level.

[0161] Figure 47 shows the second bipolar test mode screen 1928G of the exemplary GUI. Similar to the first bipolar test mode screen 1928C, the second bipolar test mode screen 1928G displays all modes and power levels that need to be tested for the bipolar energy modality. However, the second mode and power level to be tested (i.e., micro 80W) is highlighted, the start button has moved to that row, and there is a checkmark indicating that the first mode and level has been tested. To test the second power level, the user proceeds in the same way as described above with respect to the first power level. The modular energy system instructs the user to proceed until all power modes and levels have been tested, and when all power modes and levels have been tested, the final bipolar test mode screen 1928H of Figure 48 is displayed. The final bipolar test mode screen 1928H confirms that all modes and power levels have been tested by checkmarks displayed in each row below the Tested column. At this point, a button to proceed to monopolar 1 appears at the bottom of the screen. Clicking the button to proceed to unipolarity returns the modular energy system to the output verification mode main screen.

[0162] Figure 49 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1926B. Similar to the output verification mode main screen 1926A, the output verification mode main screen 1926B displays buttons representing the various energy ports associated with the modular energy system. However, since the output verification of the bipolar port is complete, this button is highlighted and displays a checkmark. To proceed with testing the unipolar 1 port, the user taps the unipolar 1 button. This brings up the unipolar 1 ESU analyzer connection screen.

[0163] Figure 50 shows an exemplary GUI single-pole 1 ESU analyzer connection screen 1930A. The single-pole 1 ESU analyzer connection screen 1930A instructs the user to insert the ESU analyzer leads into the appropriate ports to test the single-pole 1 energy modality. These instructions include a visual representation of the leads connected to the appropriate ports. After the leads are connected as shown, the user taps the OK button to proceed to the first single-pole 1 setting resistance screen.

[0164] Figure 51 shows the first monopolar 1 setting resistor screen 1930B of an exemplary GUI. In the first monopolar 1 setting resistor screen 1930B, the user is instructed to adjust the resistance of the ESU analyzer to an appropriate setting (e.g., 100 ohms). After the user has adjusted the resistance of the ESU analyzer appropriately as instructed, tapping the confirmation button brings up the first monopolar 1 test mode screen.

[0165] Figure 52 shows the first monopole 1 test mode screen 1930C of an exemplary GUI. The first monopole 1 test mode screen 1930C displays all modes and power levels that need to be tested for a monopole 1 energy modality (which can be scrolled down as needed). The first mode and power level to be tested (i.e., soft Coag 20w) is highlighted on the first monopole 1 test mode screen 1930C. Similar to the bipolar test mode screen described above, an activation button is displayed next to the highlighted row. By pressing and holding the activation button, the modular energy system delivers energy at the corresponding mode and power level in the active row. Once the energy is delivered, the power level displayed in the active row is highlighted. Once the energy is activated, the user can use the ESU analyzer to perform appropriate measurements. The user may press the next mode and power level button (i.e., soft Coag 20w) when ready to proceed to the second mode and power level. However, the user may need to adjust the resistance level of the ESU analyzer as they proceed with measuring the mode and power levels required for verifying the output of a single-pole, single-port. Referring to the second single-pole, single-port test mode screen 1930D in Figure 53, a resistance setting button (i.e., setting the resistance to 200 ohms) is displayed, instructing the user to change the resistance. Tapping this button brings up the second single-pole, single-port setting resistance screen.

[0166] Figure 54 shows the second single-pole 1 setting resistor screen 1930E of the exemplary GUI. In the second single-pole 1 setting resistor screen 1930E, the user is again instructed to adjust the resistance of the ESU analyzer to an appropriate setting (e.g., 200 ohms). After the user has appropriately adjusted the resistance of the ESU analyzer and tapped the confirmation button, the next single-pole 1 test mode screen appears. From the next test screen, the modular energy system instructs the user to proceed until all power modes and levels have been tested. Referring now to Figure 55, after all modes and power levels have been tested, the final single-pole 1 test mode screen 1930F is displayed. At this point, a button to proceed to single-pole 2 output verification appears at the bottom of the screen. Clicking the button to proceed to single-pole 2 causes the modular energy system to return to the output verification mode main screen, where the user can then select single-pole 2 ports for testing. This brings up the single-pole 2 ESU analyzer connection screen.

[0167] Figure 56 shows an exemplary GUI single-pole 2 ESU analyzer connection screen 1932A. The single-pole 2 ESU analyzer connection screen 1932A instructs the user to insert the ESU analyzer leads into the appropriate ports to test the single-pole 2 energy modality. These instructions include a visual representation of the leads connected to the appropriate ports. After the leads are connected as shown, the user taps the OK button to proceed to the first single-pole 2 setting resistance screen. As with the other ports described above, the modular energy system instructs the user to test each of the required modes and power levels for the single-pole 2 port. Referring now to Figure 57, after all modes and power levels have been tested, the final single-pole 2 test mode screen 1934B is displayed. At this point, a button to proceed to advanced energy output verification appears at the bottom of the screen. Clicking the button to proceed to advanced energy returns the modular energy system to the output verification mode main screen, where the user can then select the advanced energy port for testing. Testing the advanced energy port begins on the Advanced Energy: Single-Pole ESU Analyzer Connection screen.

[0168] Figure 58 shows an exemplary GUI Advanced Energy: Monopolar ESU Analyzer Connection Screen 1934A. The Advanced Energy: Monopolar ESU Analyzer Connection Screen 1934A instructs the user to insert the ESU analyzer leads into the appropriate ports (of the output verification key) to test the Advanced Energy: Monopolar Energy Modality. These instructions include a visual representation of the leads connected to the appropriate ports. After the leads are connected as shown, the user taps the OK button to proceed to the test screen related to the Advanced Energy: Monopolar Modality. As with the other ports described above, the modular system instructs the user to test each of the required modes and power levels of the Advanced Energy: Monopolar Energy Modality. Referring now to Figure 59, after all power modes and levels have been tested, the Final Advanced Energy: Monopolar Test Mode Screen 1934B is displayed. At this point, a button to proceed to Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic Output Verification appears at the bottom of the screen. Clicking the button to proceed to Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic Output Verification causes the modular energy system to proceed to the Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic ESU Analyzer Connection Screen.

[0169] Figure 60 shows an exemplary GUI Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic ESU Analyzer Connection Screen 1936A. The Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic ESU Analyzer Connection Screen 1936A instructs the user to insert the ESU analyzer leads into the appropriate ports (of the output verification key) to test the Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic Energy Modality. These instructions include a visual representation of the leads connected to the appropriate ports. After the leads are connected as shown, the user taps the OK button to proceed to the test screen related to the Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic Modality. As with the other ports mentioned above, the modular energy system instructs the user to test each of the required modes and power levels of the Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic Energy Modality. Referring now to Figure 61, after all modes and power levels have been tested, the final Advanced Energy: Ultrasonic Test Mode Screen 1936B is displayed. At this point, a button to proceed to Advanced Energy: Bipolar Output Verification appears at the bottom of the screen. Clicking the button to proceed to the Advanced Energy: Bipolar Button causes the modular energy system to proceed to the Advanced Energy: Bipolar ESU Analyzer Connection Screen.

[0170] Figure 62 shows an exemplary GUI Advanced Energy: Bipolar ESU Analyzer Connection Screen 1938A. The Advanced Energy: Bipolar ESU Analyzer Connection Screen 1938A instructs the user to insert the ESU analyzer leads into the appropriate ports (of the output verification key) to test the Advanced Energy: Bipolar Energy Modality. These instructions include a visual representation of the leads connected to the appropriate ports. After the leads are connected as shown, the user taps the OK button to proceed to the test screen related to the Advanced Energy: Bipolar Modality. As with the other ports mentioned above, the modular energy system instructs the user to test each of the required modes and power levels of the Advanced Energy: Bipolar Energy Modality. Referring now to Figure 63, after all power modes and levels have been tested, the final Advanced Energy: Bipolar Test Mode Screen 1938B is displayed. At this point, if the modular energy system includes additional energy modules (e.g., a second generator), buttons to proceed to the next module (e.g., generator 2) appear at the bottom of the screen. Clicking this button will take the modular energy system to the verification key connection screen.

[0171] Figure 64 shows an exemplary GUI verification key connection screen 1940. Once the output verification test associated with the first energy module (e.g., generator 1) is complete, this screen instructs the user to remove the output verification key from the port associated with the first energy module and insert the output verification key into the appropriate port of the second energy module (e.g., generator 2). These instructions include a visual representation of the output verification key being removed from the port of the first energy module and inserted into the port of the second energy module. Once the key is correctly inserted into the correct port of the second energy module, the system can automatically recognize the connection and proceed to the output verification main screen.

[0172] Figure 65 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1926C. The output verification mode main screen 1926C displays buttons representing various energy ports associated with the modular energy system. However, unlike the verification mode main screen 1926A, the output verification mode main screen 1926C displays a second row of available buttons (i.e., bipolar, monopolar, 1, monopolar 2, and altitude) representing ports associated with a second energy module of the modular energy system (e.g., generator 2). The output verification mode main screen 1926C may also display a serial number associated with the second energy module above the buttons in the second row. The user can start output verification of a specific port of the second energy module by tapping the appropriate energy port button. When the user has completed output verification, or when the user wants to exit output verification mode and return to the system settings screen 1922, the user can tap the Done button in the upper right corner of the output verification mode menu screen.

[0173] Figures 66–89 are exemplary GUI screens displayed by the modular energy system during the induction power verification process according to at least one other aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 66 is an exemplary GUI main screen 1942A of the modular energy system. To begin accessing the power verification mode, the user taps the utility button (gear icon) in the upper right corner of the GUI main screen 1942A to display the utility menu screen. Figure 67 is an exemplary GUI utility menu screen 1942B. By tapping the system settings button in the lower right corner of the utility menu screen 1942B, the user displays the system settings screen of the modular energy system. Figure 68 is an exemplary GUI system settings screen 1944. Next, from the system settings screen 1944, the user taps the service button located on the left side. Tapping the service button displays various service options, including “Power Verification Test,” as shown in the central part of the system settings screen 1944. Below the “Power Verification Test” header, an image is displayed showing the power verification key inserted into the appropriate energy port of the energy module (i.e., generator). The system configuration screen 1944 instructs the user to insert an output verification key, as shown, to begin an output verification test. While the system configuration screen 1944 is displayed, if the user inserts an output verification key into the appropriate energy port, the modular energy system enters output verification mode. In other aspects of this disclosure, the modular energy system can be entered into output verification mode by inserting an output verification key at any time.

[0174] Figure 69 is an exemplary GUI screen for entering output verification 1946. Screen 1946 for entering output verification displays a notification to the user indicating the estimated length of time required to complete the output verification test. The notification also prompts the user to ensure they have an ESU analyzer with appropriate resistance capability (e.g., capable of reaching a resistance of 1250 ohms). The user is also notified that they can activate the generator (i.e., various modalities of the energy module) by interacting with the GUI touchscreen or an appropriate foot switch. Tapping the continue button located in the lower right corner of Screen 1946 for entering output verification causes the modular energy system to display the output verification mode main screen.

[0175] Figure 70 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1948A. The output verification mode main screen 1948A displays a panel representing the various energy ports associated with the modular energy system. The top row of the panel (i.e., bipolar, monopolar 1, monopolar 2, and altitude) represents the ports associated with the first energy module of the modular energy system (i.e., generator 1). If there are two or more energy modules (two or more generators) associated with the modular energy system, the output verification mode main screen 1948A can display additional rows of energy port panels corresponding to the energy ports of the additional energy modules. For example, the output verification mode main screen 1948A includes a second row of panels associated with the second energy module of the modular energy system (i.e., generator 2) (i.e., bipolar, monopolar 1, monopolar 2, and altitude). The user can initiate output verification of a particular energy modality by inserting the leads of the ESU analyzer into the appropriate ports associated with that energy modality. For example, when the ESU analyzer lead wire is inserted into the port corresponding to the bipolar energy modality, the first bipolar test mode screen appears.

[0176] Figure 71 shows an exemplary GUI of the first bipolar test mode screen 1948B. The first bipolar test mode screen 1948B includes an extended bipolar panel, which displays the available modes and power levels associated with the bipolar energy modality being tested. For example, the extended bipolar panel shown on the first bipolar test mode screen 1948B includes buttons for 20W and 200W power levels tested using micro mode, and buttons for 20W and 200W power levels tested using macro mode. Each button also displays the ESU analyzer resistance level required for each test. The button corresponding to the first power mode and power level being tested (i.e., micro 20W) is highlighted on the first bipolar test mode screen 1948B. Furthermore, that same mode and power level is displayed in a larger font at the top of the extended bipolar panel (i.e., 20 micro). The foot pedal image displayed within the extended bipolar panel of screen 1948B indicates that a foot pedal connected to the modular energy system may be used to activate the power supply in the level / mode corresponding to the highlighted button (i.e., micro 20w). In various aspects of this disclosure, an activation button displayed on the first bipolar test mode screen may be used to activate the power supply instead of a foot pedal.

[0177] Referring here to Figure 72, the first bipolar test mode screen 1948C of the exemplary GUI is shown with an activation button instead of a foot pedal. When the activation button is pressed and held, the modular energy system delivers energy at the mode and power level corresponding to the highlighted button in the extended bipolar panel (i.e., micro 20w). Once the energy is activated, the user can perform appropriate measurements using the ESU analyzer. By releasing the activation button, the modular energy system stops delivering energy through the bipolar port.

[0178] Referring here to the first bipolar test mode screen 1948D in Figure 73, the user activates the bipolar energy modality in a first mode and power level (i.e., micro 20W) by pressing a foot pedal. Once the power is activated, the top of the extended bipolar panel is highlighted, as shown by screen 1948D. When the user is ready to test a second mode and power level of the bipolar energy modality, the user may tap a button in the extended bipolar panel corresponding to that mode and level (e.g., micro 200W), as illustrated by the first bipolar test mode screen 1948E in Figure 74. This brings up the second bipolar test mode screen.

[0179] Figure 75 shows the second bipolar test mode screen 1948F of the exemplary GUI. Similar to the first bipolar test mode screen 1948B, the second bipolar test mode screen 1948F includes an extended bipolar panel that displays the available modes and power levels associated with the bipolar energy modality being tested. However, the text in the buttons corresponding to the tested first mode and power level then appears with a strikethrough, indicating that the test for that setting is complete. Furthermore, the button corresponding to the second power mode and level being tested (i.e., micro 200W) is highlighted, and then the large text at the top of the extended bipolar panel is updated based on that mode and level (i.e., 200 micro). To test the second power level, the user proceeds in the same manner as described above with respect to the first power level. Once power is activated, the top of the extended bipolar panel is highlighted, as shown by the second bipolar test mode screen 1948G in Figure 76. When the user is ready to test the next mode and power level of the bipolar energy modality, the user may tap the button in the extended bipolar panel corresponding to that mode and level (e.g., macro 20w), as illustrated by the second bipolar test mode screen 1948H in Figure 77. This process continues for all available modes and power levels shown on the extended bipolar panel. For example, Figure 78 is an exemplary GUI final bipolar test mode screen 1948J showing that testing at micro 20w, micro 200w, and macro 20w has been completed, and macro 200w is currently being tested. After testing at the final mode and power level is complete, the user may disconnect the ESU analyzer leads from the port corresponding to the bipolar energy modality. Once the leads are disconnected, the modular energy system returns to the main screen in output verification mode.

[0180] Figure 79 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1948K. Similar to the output verification mode main screen 1948A, the output verification mode main screen 1948K displays panels representing the various energy ports associated with the modular energy system. However, the panel corresponding to the bipolar energy modality of the first energy module is then highlighted, indicating that the output verification test for that modality is complete. The user may initiate output verification of a single-pole energy modality by inserting the ESU analyzer leads into the corresponding ports on the energy module and output verification key. This brings up the first single-pole test mode screen.

[0181] Figure 80 shows an exemplary GUI of the first monopole 1 test mode screen 1948L. The first monopole 1 test mode screen 1948L includes an extended monopole 1 panel, which displays the available modes and power levels associated with the monopole 1 energy modality to be tested. Each of the buttons also displays the ESU analyzer resistance level required for each test. The buttons corresponding to the first power mode and power level to be tested are highlighted on screen 1948L. Instructions such as "Monopole Modulation Technique High" may also be displayed. Furthermore, the same mode and power level may be displayed in a larger font at the top of the extended monopole 1 panel (e.g., "High Monopole Modulation Technique"). Referring now to the first bipole test mode screen 1948M in Figure 81, the user activates the monopole 1 energy port in the first mode and power level (i.e., Monopole Modulation Technique High) by pressing a foot pedal. Once the power is activated, the top of the extended monopole 1 panel is highlighted, as shown by screen 1948M. When the user is ready to test a second mode and power level of a unipolar 1 energy modality, they may tap the button in the extended unipolar 1 panel corresponding to that mode and level (e.g., unipolar modulation technique low). This will bring up the second unipolar 1 test mode screen.

[0182] Figure 82 shows an exemplary GUI of the second monopole 1 test mode screen 1948N. Similar to the first monopole 1 test mode screen 1948L, the second monopole 1 test mode screen 1948N includes an extended monopole 1 panel that displays the available modes and power levels associated with the monopole 1 energy modality to be tested. However, the text in the buttons corresponding to the tested first modes and power levels then appears with a strikethrough, indicating that the test for that setting is complete. Furthermore, the buttons corresponding to the second modes and power levels to be tested (e.g., low monopole modulation technique) are highlighted, and the large text at the top of the extended monopole 1 panel is updated (e.g., low monopole modulation technique). To test the second power level, the user proceeds in the same manner as described above with respect to the first power level. Similarly, the user proceeds with measuring each power level shown on the extended monopole 1 panel. For example, the third monopole 1 test mode screen 1948P shown in Figure 83 indicates that the user has tested the high and low settings of the monopole modulation technique, is currently testing the pure 20W setting, and is ready to proceed to the pure 300W setting. After testing all monopole 1 settings, the user may disconnect the ESU analyzer leads from the ports corresponding to the monopole 1 energy modalities. Once the leads are disconnected, the modular energy system returns to the main screen in output verification mode. From the main screen, the user may proceed to test the monopole 2 energy modalities following steps similar to those described above.

[0183] Figure 84 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1948Q. This screen highlights the bipolar panel, unipolar panel 1, and unipolar panel 2. These highlighted panels indicate that the output verification test has been completed for the corresponding energy modality. The user may initiate output verification for the high-energy modality by inserting the ESU analyzer lead into the corresponding port on the output verification key. This brings up the high-energy: ultrasonic test mode screen.

[0184] Figure 85 shows the first advanced energy: ultrasonic test mode screen 1948R of the exemplary GUI. Similar to the other test mode screens described above, screen 1948R includes an extended advanced energy panel displaying the available test modes and power levels associated with the advanced energy modality. Each button also displays the ESU analyzer resistance level required for each test. The button corresponding to the first power mode and power level to be tested (i.e., ultrasonic maximum at 150 ohms) is highlighted on screen 1948R. Furthermore, that same mode and power level is displayed in a larger font at the top of the extended advanced energy panel (i.e., ultrasonic maximum). Now referring to the first advanced energy: ultrasonic test mode screen 1948S shown in Figure 86, the user activates the advanced energy port in the first mode and power level (i.e., ultrasonic maximum) by pressing a foot pedal. Once power is activated, the top of the extended advanced energy panel is highlighted, as shown by screen 1948S. When the user is ready to test a second mode and power level of the high-energy modality, they may tap the button in the extended high-energy panel corresponding to that mode and level (e.g., minimum ultrasound at 150 ohms), as illustrated by the high-energy: ultrasonic test mode screen 1948T in Figure 87. This brings up the second high-energy: ultrasonic test mode screen. To test the second power level, the user proceeds as described above in relation to the first power level. Similarly, the user proceeds through each ultrasonic setting shown on the extended high-energy panel, adjusting the resistance of the ESU analyzer as needed. For example, the third high-energy: ultrasonic test mode screen 1948U shown in Figure 88 indicates that the user has already tested the maximum and minimum ultrasonic settings at 150 ohms, is now testing the maximum ultrasonic setting at 650 ohms, and is ready to proceed to the minimum ultrasonic setting at 650 ohms. After testing all ultrasonic settings, the user may proceed to the bipolar settings of the high-energy modality by tapping the toggle button at the bottom of the extended high-energy panel.This displays all the required power verification test settings for the Advanced Energy: Bipolar Modality on the Extended Advanced Energy Panel. After the user has completed all the required power verification tests related to the Advanced Energy Modality, the user may disconnect the ESU analyzer lead wire from the power verification key. Once the lead wire is disconnected, the modular energy system returns to the main screen in power verification mode.

[0185] Figure 89 shows an exemplary GUI output verification mode main screen 1948V. This screen highlights the bipolar, monopolar 1, monopolar 2, and advanced energy panels. These highlighted panels indicate that output verification tests have been completed for all energy modalities of the first energy module (e.g., Generator 1). The user can initiate output verification of the second energy module (e.g., Generator 2) by transferring the output verification key to the appropriate port on the second module and inserting the ESU analyzer leads into the ports corresponding to the bipolar energy modalities. The output verification process for the second energy module then proceeds in the same manner as described above.

[0186] Output verification key As described above, standard hospital procedures require that output verification tests be performed on electrosurgical generators, often annually or semi-annually. Typically, the output verification process involves connecting an electrosurgical unit (ESU) analyzer to various energy ports on the electrosurgical generator. Once the ESU analyzer is connected, the user (e.g., a biomedical technician) activates the connected ports on the electrosurgical generator in various modes and power settings while the ESU analyzer is set to various resistance levels. The user repeats different combinations of power and resistance levels and records the results. These results are used to determine whether the power output of the electrosurgical generator conforms to the manufacturer's specifications. However, some or all of the energy ports on a typical electrosurgical generator do not fit the wire leads associated with the ESU analyzer. Furthermore, electrosurgical generators often do not include the accessories necessary to properly connect to the ESU analyzer. As a result, the user needs to "equip" their own instruments and cables to make a temporary connection to the ESU analyzer so that the output verification process can be completed. For example, Figure 90 is a perspective view of an electrosurgical generator with a temporary ESU analyzer connection. The electrosurgical generator 1950 includes various energy ports that need to be connected to the leads of an ESU analyzer. Since the leads of the ESU analyzer do not fit into the neutral electrode (NE) port of the generator 1950, a temporary connection 1952 is made. In some cases, the temporary connection 1952 is "equipped" by cutting the return cable of the return pad and soldering a banana jack to the cable. Using devices such as the temporary connection 1952 can result in inaccurate output verification results. Furthermore, these temporary connections pose a potential safety problem for the user when improperly "equipped". Therefore, an adapter is needed that allows for a safe and easy connection between the electrosurgical generator and the ESU analyzer.

[0187] In one aspect of this disclosure, an output verification key is disclosed that functions as an adapter between the energy port of an electrosurgical generator and the lead wires of an ESU analyzer. The first side of the output verification key includes a connection that plugs into the neutral electrode port of the generator and a connection that plugs into the advanced energy port of the generator (e.g., the neutral electrode port 2018 and the combined energy port 2020 of the energy module 2004 shown in Figure 7A). The second side of the output verification key includes one port (i.e., a neutral key port) that accepts the lead wires of an ESU analyzer to make a connection with the neutral electrode port of the generator. Thus, when performing an output verification test of the generator's unipolar energy modality, the user can easily plug the first ESU analyzer lead wires into the appropriate unipolar port of the generator (e.g., the first unipolar port 2016a or the second unipolar port 2016b shown in Figure 7A) and the second lead wires into the neutral key port of the output verification key. The second side of the output verification key also includes four ports associated with the generator's high-energy (combined) port: a unipolar key port, a bipolar key port, an ultrasonic key port, and a common key port. To test the unipolar modality of the high-energy port, the user can easily insert the first ESU analyzer lead into the unipolar key port and the second ESU analyzer lead into the neutral key port. To test the bipolar modality of the high-energy port, the user can easily insert the first ESU analyzer lead into the bipolar key port and the second ESU analyzer lead into the common key port. Finally, to test the ultrasonic modality of the high-energy port, the user can easily insert the first ESU analyzer lead into the ultrasonic key port and the second ESU analyzer lead into the common key port. By including the aforementioned ports and plugs, the output verification key advantageously functions as an adapter that enables a secure and easy connection between the electrosurgical generator and the ESU analyzer during output verification.

[0188] Figure 91 is a perspective view of an electrosurgical generator connected to an output verification key. Generator 1950 includes various energy ports that need to be connected to the leads of an ESU analyzer for output verification. These energy ports include a bipolar port, two unipolar ports, a neutral electrode port, and an advanced energy port (similar to the bipolar port 2014, the first unipolar port 2016a, the second unipolar port 2016b, the neutral electrode port 2018, and the combined energy port 2020 shown in Figure 7A). The output verification key 1960 is plugged into the neutral electrode and advanced energy ports of generator 1950. Specifically, the neutral electrode plug on the first side of output verification key 1960 is connected to the neutral electrode port of generator 1950, and the advanced energy plug on the first side of output verification key 1960 is connected to the advanced energy port of generator 1950.

[0189] Figure 92 is a perspective view of an exemplary output verification key. The first side of the output verification key 1960 includes a neutral electrode plug 1962 and an advanced energy plug 1964. The neutral electrode plug 1962 connects to the neutral electrode port of the generator 1950. Similarly, the advanced energy plug 1964 connects to the advanced energy port of the generator 1950. The second side of the output verification key 1960 includes a neutral key port 1966, a unipolar key port 1968A, a bipolar key port 1968B, an ultrasonic key port 1968C, and a common key port 1968D.

[0190] Figure 93 is a perspective view of an alternative and exemplary output verification key. In this example, the output verification key 1970 includes a neutral electrode plug 1972 and an advanced energy plug 1974. The neutral electrode plug 1972 connects to the neutral electrode port of the generator 1950. Similarly, the advanced energy plug 1974 connects to the advanced energy port of the generator 1950. The output verification key 1970 also includes a neutral key port 1976, a unipolar key port 1978A, a bipolar key port 1978B, an ultrasonic key port 1978C, and a common key port 1978D. Additional diagrams of the output verification key 1970 are described below in Figures 94–97. Some of these diagrams are described as “top,” “front,” and “rear” views of the output verification key 1970, but these terms are used only to identify the relative angles from which the output verification key 1970 is depicted and are not intended to limit the orientation associated with the output verification key 1970 in any way.

[0191] Figure 94 is a top view of the output verification key shown in Figure 93. Viewing the output verification key 1970 from this angle, the neutral electrode plug 1972 and the high energy plug 1974, as well as the neutral key port 1976, the single-pole key port 1978A, and the common key port 1978D are depicted.

[0192] Figure 95 is a front view of the output verification key shown in Figure 93. Viewing the output verification key 1970 from this angle, the neutral key port 1976, the single-pole key port 1978A, the bi-pole key port 1978B, the ultrasonic key port 1978C, and the common key port 19678D are depicted.

[0193] Figure 96 is a rear view of the output verification key shown in Figure 93. Viewed from this angle, the output verification key 1970 shows the neutral electrode plug 1972 and the high energy plug 1974.

[0194] Figure 97 is an alternative perspective view of the output verification key shown in Figure 93. Viewing the output verification key 1970 from this angle, the neutral electrode plug 1972 and the high energy plug 1974 are depicted, as well as the neutral key port 1976, the unipolar key port 1978A, the bipolar key port 1978B, the ultrasonic key port 1978C, and the common key port 1978D. [Examples]

[0195] Various aspects of surgical procedures via the modular energy systems described herein will be illustrated in the following examples.

[0196] Example 1: A modular energy system for use in a surgical environment, comprising: an energy module configured to generate at least one energy modality for driving connected electrosurgical and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments; and a header module communicatively coupled to the energy module, the header module having a display screen capable of rendering a graphical user interface (GUI), the GUI being configured to display a series of steps corresponding to actions performed by the user while the modular energy system is operating.

[0197] Example 2: The modular energy system described in Example 1, wherein multiple steps displayed by a GUI are steps of a predetermined treatment checklist, and the steps of the predetermined treatment checklist correspond to steps of a surgical procedure.

[0198] Example 3: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1-2, wherein the GUI is further configured to sequentially display each step of a predetermined procedure checklist when a user performs a surgical procedure, and the GUI displays each step until the user provides input to the modular energy system indicating that the step has been completed.

[0199] Example 4: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 3, further comprising a storage device configured to record event data related to the operation of an energy module during a surgical procedure, wherein the event data is organized into an event log based on the steps of a predetermined procedure checklist displayed by a GUI while the events are being recorded.

[0200] Example 5: A modular energy system according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the display screen further comprises a touchscreen, and the touchscreen is configured to detect an input indicating that each step has been completed.

[0201] Example 6: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising a microphone, wherein the input indicating the completion of each step is a voice command captured by the microphone.

[0202] Example 7: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the GUI is configured to skip steps on a predetermined checklist when the user provides input to the modular energy system.

[0203] Example 8: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 7, wherein multiple steps displayed by a GUI are steps of a procedure checklist corresponding to steps of a surgical procedure, and each step of the procedure checklist is entered by the user upon completion of each step of the surgical procedure.

[0204] Example 9: The modular energy system according to Example 8, wherein the display screen further comprises a touchscreen, the touchscreen being configured to detect steps of a treatment checklist entered by the user.

[0205] Example 10: The modular energy system according to any one or two or more of Examples 8 to 9, further comprising a microphone, wherein the microphone is configured to detect steps of a treatment checklist input by a user.

[0206] Example 11: The modular energy system according to any one or two or more of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the GUI is further configured to display an instrument usage pattern based on event data.

[0207] Example 12: The modular energy system according to any one or two or more of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the instrument usage pattern compares events recorded during a specific step of a first surgical procedure performed by a first user with events recorded during the same specific step of a plurality of surgical procedures performed by the first user.

[0208] Example 13: The modular energy system according to any one or two or more of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the instrument usage pattern compares events recorded during a specific step of a first surgical procedure performed by a first user with events recorded during the same specific step of a plurality of surgical procedures performed by a plurality of users.

[0209] Example 14: The modular energy system according to any one or two or more of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the instrument usage pattern includes an average transverse incision time, the number of transactions, an average instrument power level, and the number of instrument exchanges.

[0210] Example 15: The modular energy system according to any one or two or more of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the GUI is further configured to display an event log.

[0211] Example 16: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 15, comprising: an event log main screen, which is an event log main screen and includes data relating to the operation of energy modules during multiple surgical procedures, the data relating to the operation of energy modules during multiple surgical procedures including the date of each procedure, the time of each procedure, the duration of each procedure, a description of each procedure, and a detail button corresponding to each procedure; and an event log detail modal screen corresponding to each procedure included in the event log main screen, the event log detail modal screen for each procedure being accessed by selecting the detail button corresponding to the procedure, and the event log detail modal screen for each procedure including the energy modality used during the procedure, the mode of the energy modality, the power level of the energy modality, and the startup time of the energy modality.

[0212] Example 17: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the event log details modal screen further includes an error description of the energy modality used during the procedure and an error status information popup window, the error status information popup window being accessed by selecting the error description.

[0213] Example 18: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the system is configured to export event logs to an external source.

[0214] Example 19: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 1 to 18, wherein multiple steps displayed by a GUI are steps in the output verification process.

[0215] Example 20: The modular energy system according to Example 19, wherein at least one of the steps of the output verification process displayed by the GUI includes a power level and mode setting to be tested for at least one energy modality, and an instruction prompting the user to adjust the resistance setting of an electrosurgical unit analyzer, and the energy module is further configured to start at least one energy modality with the power level and mode setting to be tested based on user input.

[0216] Example 21: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 19-20, wherein at least one of the steps of the output verification process displayed by the GUI includes an instruction prompting the user to insert an output verification key into at least one port of the energy module.

[0217] Example 22: A modular energy system according to any one or more of Examples 19-21, wherein at least one of the steps in the output verification process displayed by the GUI includes an instruction prompting the user to insert the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer into at least one port of the energy module.

[0218] Example 23: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 19-22, wherein the GUI displays the first step of the output verification process when the user inserts an output verification key into at least one port of the energy module.

[0219] Example 24. The modular energy system described in Example 19, wherein the GUI does not display the next power level and mode settings to be tested until the user provides input to the system indicating that the resistance settings of the electrosurgical unit analyzer have been adjusted.

[0220] Example 25: A modular energy system according to any one or more of Examples 19 to 24, wherein the output verification key comprises a first side having a neutral electrode plug connected to the neutral electrode port of the energy module and an advanced energy plug connected to the advanced energy port of the energy module; a second side having a neutral key port that receives the lead of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and forms a connection with the neutral electrode port; a unipolar key port that receives the lead wire of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection with the unipolar energy modality of the advanced energy port; a bipolar key port that receives the lead wire of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection with the bipolar energy modality of the advanced energy port; and an ultrasonic key port that receives the lead wire of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection with the ultrasonic energy modality of the advanced energy port.

[0221] Example 26: An output verification key comprising: a first side having a neutral electrode plug connected to the neutral electrode port of an energy module and an advanced energy plug connected to the advanced energy port of an energy module; a second side having a neutral key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and creates a connection with the neutral electrode port; a unipolar key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and creates a connection with the unipolar energy modality of the advanced energy port; a bipolar key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and creates a connection with the bipolar energy modality of the advanced energy port; and an ultrasonic key port that receives the lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and creates a connection with the ultrasonic energy modality of the advanced energy port.

[0222] Example 27: A modular energy system for use in a surgical environment, comprising: an energy module configured to generate at least one energy modality for driving connected electrosurgical instruments and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments; a header module communicatively coupled to the energy module and having a display screen capable of rendering a graphical user interface (GUI); and a storage device configured to record event data relating to the operation of the energy module, wherein the modular energy system can detect which events in the event data are related to a surgical procedure based on the detection of a predetermined set of events, and the event data is organized into an event log based on the detection of events related to the surgical procedure.

[0223] Example 28: The modular energy system according to Example 27, wherein a predetermined series of events includes connecting an electrosurgical instrument and / or an ultrasonic surgical instrument to an energy module, activating the connected electrosurgical instrument and / or ultrasonic surgical instrument, and disconnecting the electrosurgical instrument and / or ultrasonic surgical instrument from the energy module.

[0224] Example 29: A modular energy system according to any one or more of Examples 27-28, wherein the GUI is further configured to display an event log.

[0225] Example 30: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 27 to 29, comprising: an event log main screen, where the event log displayed by a GUI includes an event log main screen, the log main screen includes event data related to multiple surgical procedures, the data related to multiple surgical procedures includes the date of each procedure, the time of each procedure, the duration of each procedure, a description of each procedure, and a detail button corresponding to each procedure; and an event log detail modal screen corresponding to each procedure included in the event log main screen, the event log detail modal screen for each procedure being accessed by selecting the detail button corresponding to the procedure, and the event log detail modal screen for each procedure including the energy modality used during the procedure, the mode of the energy modality, the power level of the energy modality, and the startup time of the energy modality.

[0226] Example 31: A modular energy system according to any one or more of Examples 27-30, wherein the event log details modal screen further includes an error description of the energy modality used during the procedure and an error status information popup window, the error status information popup window being accessed by selecting the error description.

[0227] Example 32: A modular energy system according to one or more of Examples 27-31, wherein the system is configured to export event logs to an external source.

[0228] While several forms have been shown and described, it is not the applicant's intention to limit or restrict the attached claims to such details. Many modifications, variations, alterations, substitutions, combinations, and equivalents of these forms can be implemented and will be conceived by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the structure of each element related to the described form can be alternatively described as a means for providing the function performed by that element. Also, while materials are disclosed with respect to specific components, other materials may be used. Therefore, it should be understood that the above description and the attached claims are intended to cover all such modifications, combinations, and variations as being included within the scope of the disclosed forms. The attached claims are intended to cover all such modifications, variations, alterations, substitutions, alterations, and equivalents.

[0229] The detailed descriptions above have used block diagrams, flowcharts, and / or examples to describe various forms of apparatus and / or processes. To the extent that such block diagrams, flowcharts, and / or examples include one or more functions and / or operations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that each function and / or operation included in such block diagrams, flowcharts, and / or examples can be implemented individually and / or collectively by various hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that some or all of the forms disclosed herein can be equivalently implemented on integrated circuits as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), firmware, or substantially any combination thereof, and that designing circuits and / or writing software and / or firmware code falls within the scope of the skills of those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein can be distributed in various forms as one or more program products, and the specific forms of the subject matter described herein are applicable regardless of the particular type of signal carrier medium used to actually carry out the distribution.

[0230] The instructions used to program the logic to implement the various disclosed aspects may be stored in system memory such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), cache, flash memory or other storage. Further, the instructions may be distributed via a network or by other computer-readable media. Thus, a machine-readable medium can include any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer), but is not limited to floppy disks, optical disks, compact disks, compact disc, read-only memory (CD-ROM), and magneto-optical disks, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic or optical cards, flash memory or tangible machine-readable storage used for the transmission of information via the Internet via electrical, optical, acoustic or other forms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.). Thus, a non-transitory computer-readable medium can include any type of tangible machine-readable medium suitable for storing or transmitting electronic instructions or information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer).

[0231] When used in any aspect of this specification, the term “control circuit” can mean, for example, hardwired circuits, programmable circuits (e.g., computer processors, processing units, processors, microcontrollers, microcontroller units, controllers, digital signal processors (DSPs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), programmable logic arrays (PLAs), or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) including one or more individual instruction processing cores), state-machine circuits, firmware that stores instructions executed by programmable circuits, and any combination thereof. Control circuits can be embodied collectively or individually as circuits that form part of a larger system, such as an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a server, or a smartphone. Accordingly, as used herein, “control circuit” includes, but is not limited to, an electrical circuit having at least one separate electrical circuit, an electrical circuit having at least one integrated circuit, an electrical circuit having at least one application-specific integrated circuit, an electrical circuit forming a general-purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general-purpose computer configured by a computer program that performs at least part of the processes and / or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program that performs at least part of the processes and / or devices described herein), an electrical circuit forming a memory device (e.g., in the form of random access memory), and / or an electrical circuit forming a communication device (e.g., a modem, a communication switch, or an optical-electric installation).Those skilled in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein may be implemented in analog form, digital form, or a combination thereof.

[0232] When used in any aspect of this specification, the term “logic” may mean an application, software, firmware, and / or circuit configured to perform any of the operations described above. Software may be embodied as software packages, code, instructions, instruction sets, and / or data recorded on a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium. Firmware may be embodied as code, instructions, or instruction sets, and / or hardcoded (e.g., non-volatile) data in a memory device.

[0233] When used in any aspect of this specification, terms such as “component,” “system,” and “module” may refer to computer-related entities that are hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or running software.

[0234] Where used in any aspect of this specification, “algorithm” means a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result, and “step” means the manipulation of physical quantities and / or logical states that can take the form of electrical or magnetic signals, which are not necessarily required but can be stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. These signals are commonly referred to as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc. These and similar terms may be associated with appropriate physical quantities, or simply are convenient labels applied to these quantities and / or states.

[0235] A packet-switched network is one example of a network. Communication devices can communicate with each other using a selected packet-switched network communication protocol. One exemplary communication protocol is the Ethernet communication protocol, which can enable communication using the Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP). The Ethernet protocol may conform to or be compatible with the "IEEE 802.3 Standard" published in December 2008 by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and / or later versions of the Ethernet standard. Alternatively or additionally, communication devices can communicate with each other using the X.25 communication protocol. The X.25 communication protocol may conform to or be compatible with standards published by the International Telecommunication Union - Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T). Alternatively or additionally, communication devices can communicate with each other using the Frame Relay communication protocol. The Frame Relay communication protocol conforms to or may be compatible with standards published by the Consultative Committee for International Telegraph and Telephone (CCITT) and / or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Alternatively or additionally, transceivers may communicate with each other using the Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) communication protocol. The ATM communication protocol conforms to or may be compatible with the ATM standard and / or later versions of this standard, published by the ATM Forum in August 2001 under the title "ATM-MPLS Network Interworking 2.0". Naturally, different and / or later developed connection-oriented network communication protocols are equally construed herein.

[0236] Unless otherwise explicitly stated, as is evident from the foregoing disclosures, any use of terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” and “displaying” throughout the foregoing disclosures should be understood to refer to the actions and processes of a computer system or similar electronic computing device that manipulate and convert data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the registers and memory of a computer system into other data similarly represented as physical quantities in the memory or registers of a computer system or other such information storage, transmission, or display device.

[0237] One or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configurable to,” “operable / operative to,” “adapted / adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable / conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that “configured to” generally encompasses active components and / or inactive components and / or standby components, unless the context should interpret it otherwise.

[0238] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein in reference to the clinician operating the handle portion of a surgical instrument. “Proximal” refers to the part closest to the clinician, and “distal” refers to the part further away from the clinician. For convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” and “down” may be used herein in reference to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be restrictive and / or absolute.

[0239] A person skilled in the art will generally understand that the terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., the text of the appended claims), are generally intended to be "open" terms (for example, the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," and the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to"). Furthermore, a person skilled in the art will understand that if a particular number is intended in an introduced claim recitation, such intent is clearly stated in the claim, and if such statement is not made, such intent does not exist. For example, to aid understanding, subsequent appended claims may include the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce the claim recitation. However, the use of such phrases should not be interpreted as suggesting that any particular claim containing such introduced claim description is limited to claims containing only one such description, even if the same claim contains an introductory phrase such as "one or more" or "at least one" and the indefinite article "a" or "an" when the claim description is introduced by the indefinite article "a" or "an" (for example, "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more"). The same applies when introducing a claim description using the definite article.

[0240] In addition, even if a specific number is explicitly stated in the introduced claim, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that such a statement should typically be interpreted as meaning at least the number stated (for example, if there is a statement that is simply “two descriptions” without any other modifiers, it generally means at least two descriptions, or two or more descriptions). Furthermore, when a notation similar to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, such a notation is generally intended to be understood in a way that those skilled in the art will understand (for example, “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” is not limited to systems having only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C and / or all of A, B and C, etc.). When expressions similar to "at least one of A, B, or C" are used, such expressions are generally intended to be understood in a way that a person skilled in the art would understand (for example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, and / or all of A, B, and C). Furthermore, a person skilled in the art will understand that, typically, any disjunctive word and / or phrase representing two or more selective terms should be understood, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, as intended to include the possibility of including one of those terms, any of those terms, or both of those terms, unless the context requires a different interpretation. For example, the phrase "A or B" will typically be understood to include the possibility of "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0241] With respect to the attached claims, those skilled in the art will understand that the operations cited herein may generally be performed in any order. Furthermore, while various operations are shown in sequence(s), it should be understood that the operations may be performed in any order other than those shown, or simultaneously. Examples of such alternative orderings may include repetition, alternation, interruption, reordering, augmentation, preliminary, additional, simultaneous, reverse, or other different orderings, unless the context should imply otherwise. Moreover, terms such as “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variations, unless the context should imply otherwise.

[0242] It is worth noting that any reference to “one aspect,” “aspect,” “example,” or “example” means that the specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in relation to that aspect is included in at least one aspect. Therefore, the phrases “in one aspect,” “in aspect,” “example,” and “example” found in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same aspect. Furthermore, specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any preferred manner in one or more aspects.

[0243] Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other disclosure material referenced herein and / or listed in any application data sheet is incorporated herein by reference to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with this Specified. Disclosures expressly stated herein, both in themselves and to the extent required, shall supersede any conflicting statements incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or any part thereof, that is referred to as being incorporated herein by reference but conflicts with current definitions, views, or other disclosures contained herein shall be incorporated only to the extent that there is no conflict between the incorporated material and the current disclosures.

[0244] In summary, the numerous benefits that can be obtained as a result of using the concepts described herein have been described. The above descriptions of one or more forms are presented for illustrative and explanatory purposes only. They are not intended to be comprehensive or to be limited to the exact forms disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. One or more forms have been selected and described to illustrate the principle and practical applications, thereby enabling a person skilled in the art to utilize the various forms, along with various modifications, to be suitable for a particular conceivable use. The claims presented herein are intended to define the overall scope.

[0245] [Implementation Method] (1) A modular energy system for use in a surgical environment, An energy module configured to generate at least one energy modality for driving connected electrosurgical instruments and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments, A header module, which is communicatively coupled to the energy module, comprises a header module having a display screen capable of rendering a graphical user interface (GUI), A modular energy system in which the GUI is configured to display a number of steps corresponding to actions performed by the user while the modular energy system is in operation. (2) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the plurality of steps displayed by the GUI are steps of a predetermined treatment checklist, and the steps of the predetermined treatment checklist correspond to steps of a surgical procedure. (3) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 2, wherein the GUI is further configured to sequentially display each step of a predetermined procedure checklist when the user performs the surgical procedure, and the GUI displays each step until the user provides the modular energy system with input indicating that the step has been completed. (4) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 3, further comprising a storage device configured to record event data relating to the operation of the energy module during the surgical procedure, wherein the event data is organized into an event log based on the steps of the predetermined procedure checklist that were displayed by the GUI while the events were being recorded. (5) The display screen further comprises a touchscreen, The modular energy system according to Embodiment 3, wherein the touchscreen is configured to detect the input indicating that each step has been completed.

[0246] (6) Further equipped with a microphone, The modular energy system according to Embodiment 3, wherein the input indicating the completion of each step is a voice command captured by the microphone. (7) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 3, wherein the GUI is configured to skip a step when the user provides the modular energy system with input to skip a step in a predetermined checklist. (8) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the plurality of steps displayed by the GUI are steps of a procedure checklist corresponding to steps of a surgical procedure, and each step of the procedure checklist is entered by the user upon completion of each step of the surgical procedure. (9) The display screen further comprises a touchscreen, The modular energy system according to embodiment 8, wherein the touchscreen is configured to detect the steps of the treatment checklist entered by the user. (10) Equipped with an additional microphone, The modular energy system according to embodiment 8, wherein the microphone is configured to detect the steps of the treatment checklist entered by the user.

[0247] (11) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 4, wherein the GUI is further configured to display appliance usage patterns based on the event data. (12) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 11, wherein the instrument usage pattern compares events recorded during a specific step of a first surgical procedure performed by a first user with events recorded during the same specific step of a plurality of surgical procedures performed by the first user. (13) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 11, wherein the instrument usage pattern compares events recorded during a specific step of a first surgical procedure performed by a first user with events recorded during the same specific step of multiple surgical procedures performed by multiple users. (14) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 11, wherein the equipment usage pattern includes average transverse cutting time, number of transactions, average equipment power level, and number of equipment replacements. (15) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 4, wherein the GUI is further configured to display the event log.

[0248] (16) The event log displayed by the GUI is An event log main screen, which includes data relating to the operation of the energy module during a plurality of surgical procedures, and the data relating to the operation of the energy module during a plurality of surgical procedures, Date of each treatment, Time for each procedure, Duration of each treatment, Explanation of each procedure, The event log main screen includes detail buttons corresponding to each action, The event log main screen includes an event log detail modal screen corresponding to each action included in the event log main screen, and the event log detail modal screen for each action is accessed by selecting the detail button corresponding to the action, and the event log detail modal screen for each action is The energy modality used during the aforementioned procedure, The mode of the aforementioned energy modality, The power level of the aforementioned energy modality, A modular energy system according to Embodiment 15, including the startup time of the aforementioned energy modality. (17) The event log details modal screen is The error description of the energy modality used during the aforementioned procedure, An error status information popup window, and further, The modular energy system according to embodiment 16, wherein the error status information popup window is accessed by selecting the error description. (18) The modular energy system according to embodiment 15, wherein the system is configured to export the event log to an external source. (19) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 1, wherein the plurality of steps displayed by the GUI are steps of the output verification process. (20) At least one of the steps of the output verification process displayed by the GUI is Power levels and mode settings to be tested for at least one of the aforementioned energy modalities, Includes a command prompting the user to adjust the resistance setting of the electrosurgical unit analyzer, The modular energy system according to embodiment 19, wherein the energy module is further configured to activate the at least one energy modality at the power level and mode setting to be tested based on the user input.

[0249] (21) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 19, wherein at least one of the steps of the output verification process displayed by the GUI includes an instruction prompting the user to insert an output verification key into at least one port of the energy module. (22) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 19, wherein at least one of the steps of the output verification process displayed by the GUI includes an instruction prompting the user to insert the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer into at least one port of the energy module. (23) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 19, wherein the GUI displays the first step of the output verification process when the user inserts an output verification key into at least one port of the energy module. (24) The modular energy system according to Embodiment 20, wherein the GUI does not display the next power level and mode setting to be tested until the user provides the system with input indicating that the resistance setting of the electrosurgical unit analyzer has been adjusted. (25) The output verification key is The first side, A neutral electrode plug connected to the neutral electrode port of the energy module, A first side comprising an advanced energy plug connected to the advanced energy port of the energy module, The second side, A neutral key port that receives the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the neutral electrode port, A unipolar key port that receives the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection with the unipolar energy modality of the high-energy port, A bipolar key port that receives the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the bipolar energy modality of the high-energy port, A modular energy system according to Embodiment 21, comprising: a second side, which includes an ultrasonic key port for receiving lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and for making a connection with the ultrasonic energy modality of the high-energy port.

[0250] (26) Output verification key device, The first side, A neutral electrode plug connected to the neutral electrode port of the energy module, A first side comprising an advanced energy plug connected to the advanced energy port of the energy module, The second side, A neutral key port that receives the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the neutral electrode port, A unipolar key port that receives the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection with the unipolar energy modality of the high-energy port, A bipolar key port that receives the lead wires of the electrosurgical unit analyzer and makes a connection to the bipolar energy modality of the high-energy port, An output verification key device comprising: a second side, which includes an ultrasonic key port for receiving lead wires of an electrosurgical unit analyzer and making a connection with the ultrasonic energy modality of the high-energy port. (27) A modular energy system for use in a surgical environment, An energy module configured to generate at least one energy modality for driving connected electrosurgical instruments and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments, A header module, which is communicatively coupled to the energy module, and which includes a display screen capable of rendering a graphical user interface (GUI), The energy module comprises a storage device configured to record event data related to the operation of the energy module, The modular energy system can detect which events in the event data are related to surgical procedures based on the detection of a predetermined series of events. A modular energy system in which the event data is organized into an event log based on the detection of events related to the surgical procedure. (28) The predetermined series of events Connecting the electrosurgical instrument and / or the ultrasonic surgical instrument to the energy module, To activate the connected electrosurgical instrument and / or the ultrasonic surgical instrument, A modular energy system according to embodiment 27, comprising disconnecting the electrosurgical instrument and / or the ultrasonic surgical instrument from the energy module. (29) The modular energy system according to embodiment 27, wherein the GUI is further configured to display the event log. (30) The event log displayed by the GUI is An event log main screen, wherein the log main screen includes event data related to a plurality of surgical procedures, and the data related to the plurality of surgical procedures Date of each treatment, Time for each procedure, Duration of each treatment, Explanation of each procedure, The event log main screen includes detail buttons corresponding to each action, The event log main screen includes an event log detail modal screen corresponding to each action included in the event log main screen, and the event log detail modal screen for each action is accessed by selecting the detail button corresponding to the action, and the event log detail modal screen for each action is The energy modality used during the aforementioned procedure, The mode of the aforementioned energy modality, The power level of the aforementioned energy modality, A modular energy system according to embodiment 29, including the startup time of the aforementioned energy modality.

[0251] (31) The event log details modal screen is The error description of the energy modality used during the aforementioned procedure, An error status information popup window, and further, The modular energy system according to embodiment 30, wherein the error status information popup window is accessed by selecting the error description. (32) The modular energy system according to embodiment 27, wherein the system is configured to export the event log to an external source.

Claims

1. A modular energy system for use in a surgical environment, An energy module configured to generate at least one energy modality for driving connected electrosurgical instruments and / or ultrasonic surgical instruments, A header module, which is communicatively coupled to the energy module, and which includes a display screen capable of rendering a graphical user interface (GUI), A surgical hub equipped with a situational awareness system, Equipped with memory, The GUI is configured to display a number of steps corresponding to actions performed by the user while the modular energy system is operating. The plurality of steps displayed by the GUI are steps of a predetermined procedure checklist, and the steps of the predetermined procedure checklist correspond to steps of a surgical procedure. The GUI is further configured to sequentially display each step of a predetermined procedure checklist when the user performs the surgical procedure, and the GUI displays each step until the user provides input to the modular energy system indicating that the step has been completed. The aforementioned situation recognition system is Determine the type of surgical procedure being performed. A list of steps to be performed in the aforementioned type of surgical procedure is read from the memory, Next, determine the step currently being executed. A modular energy system configured to compare the determined step currently being executed with an expected step from the steps to be performed in the read list.

2. The modular energy system according to claim 1, configured to provide a warning indicating that the steps to be performed in the surgical procedure of the type described above have not been performed.

3. The aforementioned display screen further comprises a touchscreen, The modular energy system according to claim 1, wherein the touchscreen is configured to detect the input indicating that each step has been completed.

4. Equipped with an additional microphone, The modular energy system according to claim 1, wherein the input indicating the completion of each step is a voice command captured by the microphone.

5. The modular energy system according to claim 1, wherein the GUI is configured to skip a step when the user provides the modular energy system with input to skip a step on a predetermined action checklist.

6. The modular energy system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of steps displayed by the GUI are steps of a procedure checklist corresponding to the steps of the surgical procedure, and each step of the predetermined procedure checklist is entered by the user upon completion of each step of the surgical procedure.

7. The aforementioned display screen further comprises a touchscreen, The modular energy system according to claim 6, wherein the touchscreen is configured to detect the steps of the predetermined action checklist entered by the user.

8. Equipped with an additional microphone, The modular energy system according to claim 6, wherein the microphone is configured to detect the steps of the predetermined action checklist entered by the user.

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