Device for minimally invasive surgery

Abstract

The invention relates to a surgical device (100) for minimally invasive surgery, in particular on the spinal column, having a sleeve (102), wherein a working channel (103) of circular cross-section, an image sensor (52), at least one sensor (51, 53), a flushing channel (41) open towards the distal end (104) of the surgical device (100), and a suction channel (42) open towards the distal end (104) of the surgical device (100) are received in the sleeve (102), wherein a liquid can be guided through the flushing channel (41) and the suction channel (42), wherein the working channel (103) is arranged in the sleeve (102) offset from the centre of the distal end (104), wherein the flushing channel (41), the suction channel (42), the image sensor (52) and the at least one sensor (51, 53) are arranged laterally with respect to the working channel (103) at the distal end (104) in the sleeve (102). The invention further relates to the use of a surgical device (100) as an endoscope in minimally invasive surgery.

Description

[0001] W / DOP-OOl-WO

[0002] Kaf7mc

[0003] March 11, 2026

[0004] 'Device for minimally invasive surgery'

[0005] The invention relates to a surgical device for minimally invasive surgery and a use thereof according to the independent claims.

[0006] Minimally invasive surgery has established itself as a valuable procedure for treating a wide variety of diseases in human and animal patients. Therefore, it is not surprising that the use of surgical devices in the form of endoscopes is described in the prior art as particularly advantageous, especially for performing precise procedures with minimal trauma to the patient.

[0007] These minimally invasive techniques also allow surgeons to perform procedures through comparatively small incisions, thereby shortening the postoperative recovery time for human or animal patients and significantly reducing postoperative pain. Particularly in endoscopic spinal surgery, numerous advances have been made in recent years, leading to the establishment of innovative approaches for treating spinal injuries.

[0008] It is therefore not surprising that a large number of surgical devices are known from the prior art, which are particularly suitable for minimally invasive procedures on the spine. In this regard, reference should be made, for example, to the endoscope with a flushing function shown in the publication of international patent application WO 2012 / 013660, at the end of which a pressure sensor is arranged. Furthermore, an improved endoscope for spinal surgery is known from German patent application DE 10 2021 206 584 A1.

[0009] However, with the surgical devices known from the prior art, it has proven to be a disadvantage that they are only conditionally suitable for minimally invasive surgical procedures, especially on the spine, due to the limited range of functions of the known devices.

[0010] There is therefore a great need for a surgical device that enables the simple and reliable performance of minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as endoscopic examinations and / or examinations of the spine. Furthermore, the surgical device should allow for the monitoring of endoscopic examinations and offer additional diagnostic and / or therapeutic options. The device should also meet hygiene requirements, with a strong emphasis on quick and easy cleaning. In addition, the surgical device should be cost-effective to manufacture, durable, and as compact and space-saving as possible, especially when not in use, to allow for easy, quick, and space-saving storage.The invention therefore aims to provide a surgical device for minimally invasive surgery in order to overcome the aforementioned difficulties and, above all, to ensure that surgical procedures can be performed without endangering the patient while requiring the smallest possible amount of space.

[0011] This problem is solved in a surprisingly simple but effective manner by a surgical device and its use according to the teaching of the independent main claims.

[0012] According to the invention, a surgical device for minimally invasive surgery, particularly on the spine, is proposed, comprising a sleeve in which a working channel of circular cross-section, an image sensor, at least one sensor, an irrigation channel opening towards the distal end of the surgical device, and a working channel opening towards the distal end of the surgical device are accommodated, wherein a fluid can be guided through the irrigation channel and the suction channel. The surgical device is characterized in that the working channel is arranged in the sleeve offset from the center of the distal end, wherein the irrigation channel, the suction channel, the image sensor, and the at least one sensor are arranged laterally to the working channel at the distal end in the sleeve.

[0013] The invention is based on the fundamental idea that combining various functions in a surgical device significantly contributes to improving the safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive surgical procedures, while simultaneously minimizing the duration of the surgical intervention. This is achieved by integrating several sensors and / or probes into the surgical device according to the invention, which enable both the intraoperative monitoring of a multitude of parameters and open up further possibilities for diagnostics and / or therapy in combination with a minimally invasive surgical procedure.

[0014] Within the scope of the invention, the surgical device is suitable for performing minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as endoscopic examinations, and also enables simultaneous reliable monitoring and / or further diagnostics and / or therapy. Within the scope of the invention, it is understood that the surgical device is particularly suitable for examining medical training tissues, medical training models, simulation tissues, laparoscopic models, human and / or animal organs and / or tissues. Specifically, organs and / or tissues to be examined are preferably made of silicone, plastic, sponges, rubber, hydrogels, or of animal and / or human origin.

[0015] The surgical device can be used for all types of minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as on the spine, in pain therapy, especially in radiofrequency ablation, or as a neutral electrode, especially as a neutral electrode for monopolar applications.

[0016] According to the invention, the surgical device for minimally invasive surgery comprises a sleeve made of any suitable material, particularly preferably of a corrosion- and / or acid-resistant stainless steel (1.4301) or an austenitic stainless steel (1.4401), the invention being not limited to materials of this type and other suitable embodiments being conceivable. Furthermore, according to the invention, the sleeve contains a working channel of circular cross-section, an image sensor, at least one sensor, an irrigation channel opening towards the distal end of the surgical device, and a working channel opening towards the distal end of the surgical device, wherein a fluid can be guided through the irrigation channel and the suction channel.

[0017] The term "working channel" is familiar to those skilled in the art and refers to a channel, preferably of circular cross-section, within a surgical device, which allows the insertion of instruments and / or accessories for performing diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. This enables interaction with the organ and / or tissue under examination, as well as its partial or complete removal. Particularly preferred instruments include biopsy forceps, cutting tools, and / or irrigation cannulas for taking tissue samples, treating lesions, and / or performing other therapeutic or non-therapeutic procedures.

[0018] The term "image sensor" is familiar to those skilled in the art and, within the scope of the invention, refers to an electronic component that converts light and images into electrical signals. Signals generated in this way can then be processed and displayed on a suitable display device, such as a monitor, and / or stored using a suitable device, such as a computer. A charged-coupled device (CCD) sensor or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor is particularly preferred. Both sensor types offer high image quality and / or sensitivity and are cost-effective. Furthermore, other suitable image sensors are also known to those skilled in the art.

[0019] The term "irrigation channel" is familiar to those skilled in the art and describes a channel within the sleeve of the surgical device, designed to supply a fluid, such as an irrigation solution, medication, and / or other liquid, during the procedure. The irrigation channel opens towards the distal end of the surgical device. This channel allows the surgeon to clear the surgical field by flushing away bodily fluids such as blood, mucus, foreign bodies, and / or other potential contaminants. Furthermore, the presence of an irrigation channel facilitates, for example, the introduction of contrast agents into the tissue and / or organ being examined.

[0020] The term "suction channel" is familiar to those skilled in the art and describes a channel within the surgical device used to aspirate fluids, such as irrigation solutions, medications, other fluids, mucus, and / or other materials, as well as foreign bodies, during a surgical procedure. Suction is achieved using a pump, preferably a vacuum pump. The suction channel is open towards the distal end of the surgical device. A suction channel allows the surgeon to clear the field of view, thus providing a better view of the tissue and / or organ being examined. In this way, the suction channel contributes to increasing the efficiency and safety of a procedure by improving visibility and / or reducing the risk of complications.

[0021] According to the invention, it is advantageous that the working channel is arranged offset from the center of the distal end in the sleeve, with the irrigation channel, the suction channel, the image sensor, and the at least one sensor being arranged laterally to the working channel at the distal end in the sleeve. Preferably, the irrigation channel, the suction channel, the image sensor, and the at least one sensor are arranged, particularly equidistantly, on a circular or elliptical path around the working channel. For example, the irrigation channel, the suction channel, the image sensor, and the at least one sensor can be arranged semicircularly around the working channel.

[0022] The term "liquid" is known to those skilled in the art and, within the scope of the invention, refers to all conceivable liquids, particularly preferably water, solutions, saline solutions, rinsing solutions, especially purisols in monopolar applications, bodily fluids such as mucus, other materials and / or foreign bodies, a drug and / or a mixture thereof, whereby the invention is not limited to these and it is equally conceivable to use all other liquids of varying viscosities, temperatures, and densities known to those skilled in the art. The device according to the invention has a multitude of advantages. In addition to the increased safety through continuous monitoring and the resulting possibility of precise control of pressure and temperature, the operator is able to immediately identify any risks and react accordingly.Furthermore, data obtained in this way can contribute to the further optimization of surgical procedures and thus also improve the outcomes resulting from minimally invasive surgical interventions. The minimization of complications resulting from monitoring and the assurance of a safer surgical environment can increase overall patient well-being. For example, the further development of the invention by means of optional probes, as described elsewhere, makes it possible not only to perform all conceivable minimally invasive surgical procedures using the surgical device according to the invention, but also to apply diagnostic, non-therapeutic, and / or therapeutic procedures simultaneously without having to change or replace the device.This has the advantage of reducing time-consuming staff training or the purchase and commissioning of additional equipment for the surgeon, and also minimizing the anesthesia time for the patient.

[0023] Advantageous further developments of the invention, which can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, are presented in the dependent claims.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, it is conceivable that 2 to 8 sensors are included. Preferably, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 identical or different sensors are included. The term "sensor" is known to those skilled in the art and generally describes a device and / or component that detects, measures, and / or converts physical, chemical, and / or biological quantities into a signal understandable to the operator and / or another system, such as a computer. Sensors form the basis of (continuous) data acquisition and / or monitoring, thus perceiving environmental conditions and / or converting information into an electrical, optical, and / or other signal. Furthermore, in a medical context, the term "sensor" also refers to devices that detect physiological parameters, such as blood pressure, heart rate, glucose, and / or temperature. Other areas of application are known to those skilled in the art.The integration of two or more sensors significantly expands the application range of the surgical device according to the invention, so that, in its further development, the device not only makes it possible to perform conceivable minimally invasive surgical procedures, but also to apply diagnostic and therapeutic methods during the procedure. The surgical device according to the invention has additional functions to further improve the safety and effectiveness of surgical procedures.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that the at least one sensor is an electrical conductance sensor, current frequency sensor, current density sensor, pressure sensor, and / or temperature sensor, by means of which the electrical conductance, current frequency, current density, pressure, and / or temperature can be detected. This further development of the invention makes it possible, through the integration of several optional sensors, to monitor a multitude of parameters interoperably.

[0026] This continuous monitoring, and the associated ability to precisely control parameters such as pressure, current parameters (especially conductance, frequency, and density), and temperature, enables the surgeon to immediately identify any resulting risks and react accordingly, thus significantly increasing patient safety. Furthermore, the data obtained in this way can contribute to further optimizing surgical procedures and thereby improving the outcomes of minimally invasive surgical interventions. By minimizing complications and ensuring a safe surgical environment, overall patient well-being can be enhanced.

[0027] The simultaneous measurement of conductance, current frequency, and / or current density can play a crucial role, particularly in medical diagnostics and treatment, as measuring current parameters is not only suitable for examining and identifying tissue but also provides information about the tissue's condition itself. Specifically, it is conceivable, for example, to differentiate between pathological conditions, i.e., diseased tissue (inflammation, tumors), and healthy tissue using conductance. Furthermore, measuring current parameters allows for the determination of the optimal energy output and cutting rate during electrosurgical procedures. This is particularly important for precisely cutting or coagulating tissue without damaging adjacent healthy tissue.In some cases, determining the electrical parameters of bodily fluids (for example, during examinations of abscesses and other fluid collections) can also provide information about their composition and thus potential infections. Furthermore, continuous intraoperative measurement of these parameters is helpful for monitoring the progress of the procedure and thus enabling early intervention in case of complications and / or tissue changes. Therefore, measuring these electrical parameters represents an additional diagnostic tool that significantly increases the accuracy and safety of surgical procedures.

[0028] The integration of a pressure sensor makes it possible to continuously record and monitor the pressure within the surgical field interoperatively and thus in real time. This allows the surgeon to precisely track changes in tissue pressure during the procedure, thereby reducing the risk of injury and complications arising from pressure changes, particularly in procedures where pressure conditions in body cavities and / or body canals are critical.

[0029] By alternatively or additionally integrating a temperature sensor, which allows for interoperative and real-time monitoring of the tissue temperature within the surgical field, the surgeon can prevent overheating of the tissue and thus protect its integrity. Potential complications resulting from temperature changes during the procedure can be detected early and therefore avoided with the help of a temperature sensor.

[0030] In a further training course, it is conceivable that the temperature sensor is a thermocouple, specifically a type K thermocouple. The use of a type K thermocouple, also known to those skilled in the art as a chromel-aluminum thermocouple, offers many advantages over other thermocouple types. Its ability to cover a wide temperature range, combined with high accuracy and stability, results in versatile and reliable applications. The cost-effective manufacturing of a type K thermocouple and its widespread availability in various designs and configurations make it an economical choice.

[0031] In a further development, it is conceivable that the pressure sensor in question is a fiber optic pressure sensor, specifically a fiber optic pressure sensor based on a microelectromechanical system (MEMS). The use of fiber optic pressure sensors offers several advantages compared to other commercially available pressure sensors. Firstly, they possess very high sensitivity and precision, making them particularly suitable for applications requiring the detection of very small pressure changes. Furthermore, MEMS-based fiber optic sensors are relatively insensitive to electric fields and corrosive environments, allowing them to be used in demanding environments due to their chemical resistance and inherent safety. Additionally, MEMS-based fiber optic sensors are very small and easy to manufacture, enabling their simple integration into a wide variety of systems.

[0032] In a further development, it is conceivable that the enclosed image sensor has a cross-section that is configured in any desired size ratio with respect to the cross-section of the working channel. Possible size ratios between the image sensor and the working channel are 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, and 1:50. It is also conceivable that the size ratio between the image sensor and the working channel is at least 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:35, 1:40, 1:45, or 1:50. The size ratio of the cross-sections of the image sensor and working channel chosen according to the invention has proven to be particularly advantageous, as it allows both requirements regarding image quality and a sufficiently large working channel for performing minimally invasive surgical procedures to be realized.

[0033] In a further development, it is conceivable that the surgical device according to the invention comprises at least one probe. The term "probe" refers to a device or instrument used to take measurements, acquire data in the form of (physical) measurands, and / or take samples. Specifically, probes can be used, in particular, to determine physical measurands such as temperature, pressure, absolute and / or relative humidity, pH value, conductivity, flow rate of liquids or gases, oxygen content, particle concentration, radiation, especially ionizing radiation and / or other conceivable forms of electromagnetic radiation, vibration, especially the detection of oscillations, acceleration, especially the change in the velocity of an object, and the magnetic field, preferably with regard to its strength and direction.Those skilled in the art are aware of further areas of application. The term "probe" is also used to specifically describe a medical instrument that is inserted into tissue and / or an organ to obtain information about the health status of the area being examined or to carry out therapeutic measures. In addition to endoscopic probes, cardiac probes, laparoscopic probes, urethral probes, intestinal probes, nasogastric probes (NG probes), percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) probes, central venous catheters, and pleural or thoracic drains, those skilled in the art are aware of further variations.

[0034] Integrating a probe into the device according to the invention opens up further application possibilities. For example, with optional probes, the surgical device according to the invention makes it possible not only to perform all conceivable minimally invasive surgical procedures, but also to apply diagnostic and therapeutic methods simultaneously without having to change or replace the device. This results in significant advantages, not only by eliminating time-consuming staff training or the need for the surgeon to set up additional devices, but also by shortening the anesthesia time for the patient.

[0035] According to a further development, it is conceivable that the at least one probe is a radiofrequency probe and / or a probe for laser spectroscopy. This further development opens up additional diagnostic and therapeutic applications for the surgical device according to the invention. For example, the integration of a radiofrequency probe can be used for pain therapy, also known to those skilled in the art as radiofrequency ablation or radiofrequency therapy. This is a minimally invasive procedure for the effective treatment of chronic pain, particularly in the area of ​​the spine and joints. In this method, high-frequency energy is used to selectively heat and destroy the nerve tissue that transmits pain signals.The areas of application include, in particular, the treatment of pain syndromes resulting from degenerative changes in the spine, such as facet joint syndrome. Furthermore, radiofrequency ablation can be used to treat joint pain or neuropathic pain.

[0036] By further developing the invention through the optional integration of a laser spectroscopy probe, the surgeon can analyze and characterize tissue during the procedure. This powerful technology uses a probe employing laser-based methods to collect real-time information about the tissue, allowing conclusions to be drawn about its type and characteristics. This real-time analysis enables the surgeon to make immediate decisions during the procedure, as the laser-based technique exhibits high sensitivity and specificity in detecting altered tissue. This allows pathological conditions, such as tumors, to be reliably identified using laser spectroscopy without the need for tissue sampling.

[0037] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that the arrangement of the flushing channel, the suction channel, the image sensor, the at least one sensor, and / or the at least one probe in the sleeve is semicircular around the working channel. To make the best possible use of the available space for arranging the channels, sensors, and probes, a semicircular arrangement is provided according to the invention. The term "semicircular" here describes an object that forms a curved shape resembling a hemisphere or a semicircle.It was also recognized that the advantage of this arrangement lies not only in the fact that the dimensions of the surgical device can be designed to be particularly small and handy, but also in the fact that, due to the adjacent spatial arrangement of the channels, sensors and probes, the cleaning of the surgical device can be carried out more easily, quickly and therefore more cost-effectively.

[0038] In a further development, it is conceivable that the image sensor is positioned centrally within the semicircular arrangement around the working channel. The central position of the image sensor within the semicircular arrangement around the working channel, between the rinsing and suction channels, has proven particularly advantageous, as this arrangement results in the least possible distortion of the measurement results compared to other variants. Any minor distortions that may nevertheless occur can be compensated for according to the invention, thus enabling measurement during the rinsing process.

[0039] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that the surgical device comprises a handle and / or at least one connection at its proximal end. The term "proximal end" describes the end of the sleeve of the surgical device that transitions into a handle, overlaps with a handle, or at least partially overlaps with a handle. All possible connections, such as plug-in or screw connections, are conceivable. Furthermore, other connection options are known to those skilled in the art.

[0040] The term "connection" is known to those skilled in the art and describes an interface of the device for connection to another device or component, wherein the interface is designed in particular for the transmission of electrical energy and / or electrical signals and / or media, such as liquids or gases, and / or light. In a further embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that the at least one connection is suitable for a control and / or regulating unit, an energy source, a power supply, a liquid supply, a liquid discharge, and / or an optical fiber.

[0041] The term "control unit" describes a module or component used to control and regulate processes or systems. Furthermore, the term "control unit" can also refer to a device or system that processes sensor input and sends corresponding control commands to actuators. Additionally, the term "control unit" can describe a component that controls the movements and actions of a robot. Those skilled in the art are aware of other possible configurations.

[0042] The term "control unit" describes a system or component that serves to monitor and / or control processes or states. Furthermore, a control unit can be designed as a combination of sensors, actuators, and / or algorithms.

[0043] The term "energy source" here describes a resource that provides energy which can be converted into various forms to perform work or generate heat. Furthermore, all physically conceivable classifications are included, such as mechanical, thermal, chemical, or electrical energy. Further embodiments are known to those skilled in the art.

[0044] The term "power supply" generally describes the provision of electrical energy to a device or system. The term can also include the physical lines and / or cables that transport the electric current from the source to the consumer. Furthermore, extensions that include the regulation and control of the current flow are conceivable and known to those skilled in the art. The term "liquid supply" describes the provision and transport of liquids through a line, a pipe system, and / or body cavities, spaces, and channels. Moreover, the provision and transport of water, solutions, rinsing solutions, body fluids, and all other conceivable liquids of varying viscosity, temperature, and density are feasible according to the invention and are known to those skilled in the art.

[0045] The term "fluid drainage" describes the removal or transport of liquids through a pipe, a piping system, and / or body cavities, spaces, and channels. Furthermore, the provision and transport of water, solutions, rinsing solutions, bodily fluids, and all other conceivable liquids of varying viscosities, temperatures, and densities are feasible according to the invention and are known to those skilled in the art.

[0046] The term "optical fiber" describes an optical system capable of transmitting light over long distances, enabling effective illumination and image transmission in hard-to-reach areas. Particularly preferred are optical fibers consisting of a bundle of glass or plastic fibers arranged to receive light from a light source, such as a halogen or LED lamp, and transmit it to a camera system or eyepiece. Further embodiments are known to those skilled in the art. The use of optical fibers also allows the surgeon to optimize imaging during the examination, enabling a more precise diagnosis and, if necessary, improved treatment.

[0047] The sleeve can be rigid, making it more resistant and easier to insert. A rigid sleeve is particularly advantageous in spinal surgery. In a further development of the invention, it is conceivable that the sleeve has a length of 20 mm to 300 mm. A length of at least 20 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm, 23 mm, 24 mm, 25 mm, 26 mm, 27 mm, 28 mm, 29 mm, 30 mm, 31 mm, 32 mm, 33 mm, 34 mm, 35 mm, 36 mm, 37 mm, 38 mm, 39 mm, 40 mm, 41 mm, 42 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, 45 mm, 46 mm, 47 mm, 48 mm, 49 mm, 50 mm, 51 mm, 52 mm, 53 mm, 54 mm, 55 mm, 56 mm, 57 mm, 58 mm, 59 mm, 60 mm, 61 mm, 62 mm, 63 mm, 64 mm, 65 mm, 66 mm, 67 mm is particularly preferred. mm, 68mm, 69mm, 70mm, 71mm, 72mm, 73mm, 74mm, 75mm, 76mm, 77mm, 78mm, 79mm, 80mm, 81mm, 82mm, 83mm, 84mm, 85mm, 86mm, 87mm, 88mm, 89mm, 90mm, 91mm, 92mm, 93mm, 94mm, 95mm, 96mm, 97mm, 98mm, 99mm, 100mm, 101mm, 102mm, 103mm, 104mm, 105mm, 106mm, 107mm, 108mm, 109mm,110 mm, 111 mm, 112 mm, 113 mm, 114 mm, 115 mm, 116 mm, 117 mm, 118 mm, 119 mm, 120 mm, 121 mm, 122 mm, 123 mm, 124 mm, 125 mm, 126 mm, 127 mm, 128 mm, 129 mm, 130 mm, 131 mm, 132 mm, 133 mm, 134 mm, 135 mm, 136 mm, 137 mm, 138 mm, 139 mm, 140 mm, 141 mm, 142 mm, 143 mm, 144 mm, 145 mm, 146 mm, 147 mm, 148 mm, 149 mm, 150 mm, 151 mm, 152 mm, 153 mm, 154 mm, 155 mm, 156 mm, 157 mm, 158 mm, 159 mm, 160 mm, 161 mm, 162 mm, 163 mm, 164 mm, 165 mm, 166 mm, 167 mm, 168 mm, 169 mm, 170 mm, 171 mm, 172 mm, 173 mm, 174 mm, 175 mm, 176 mm, 177 mm, 178 mm, 179 mm, 180 mm, 181 mm, 182 mm, 183 mm, 184 mm, 185 mm, 186 mm, 187 mm, 188 mm, 189 mm, 190 mm, 191 mm, 192 mm, 193 mm, 194 mm, 195 mm, 196 mm, 197 mm, 198 mm, 199 mm, 200 mm, 201 mm, 202 mm, 203 mm, 204 mm, 205 mm, 206 mm, 207 mm, 208 mm, 209 mm, 210 mm, 211 mm, 212 mm, 213 mm, 214 mm, 215 mm, 216 mm, 217 mm, 218 mm, 219 mm, 220 mm, 221 mm, 222 mm, 223 mm, 224 mm, 225 mm, 226 mm, 227 mm, 228 mm, 229 mm, 230 mm, 231 mm, 232 mm, 233 mm, 234 mm,235 mm, 236 mm, 237 mm, 238 mm, 239 mm, 240 mm, 241 mm, 242 mm, 243 mm, 244 mm,245 mm, 246 mm, 247 mm, 248 mm, 249 mm, 250 mm, 251 mm, 252 mm, 253 mm, 254 mm, 255 mm, 256 mm, 257 mm, 258 mm, 259 mm, 260 mm, 261 mm, 262 mm, 263 mm, 264 mm, 265 mm, 266 mm, 267 mm, 268 mm, 269 mm, 270 mm, 271 mm, 272 mm, 273 mm, 274 mm, 275 mm, 276 mm, 277 mm, 278 mm, 279 mm, 280 mm, 281 mm, 282 mm, 283 mm, 284 mm, 285 mm, 286 mm, 287 mm, 288 mm, 289 mm, 290 mm, 291 mm, 292 mm, 293 mm, 294 mm, 295 mm, 296 mm, 297 mm, 298 mm, 299 mm oder 300 mm,

[0048] Weiter bevorzugt ist eine Länge von höchstens 300 mm, 299 mm, 298 mm, 297 mm, 296 mm, 295 mm, 294 mm, 293 mm, 292 mm, 291 mm, 290 mm, 289 mm, 288 mm, 287 mm, 286 mm, 285 mm, 284 mm, 283 mm, 282 mm, 281 mm, 280 mm, 279 mm, 278 mm, 277 mm, 276 mm, 275 mm, 274 mm, 273 mm, 272 mm, 271 mm, 270 mm, 269 mm, 268 mm, 267 mm, 266 mm, 265 mm, 264 mm, 263 mm, 262 mm, 261 mm, 260 mm, 259 mm, 258 mm, 257 mm, 256 mm, 255 mm, 254 mm, 253 mm, 252 mm, 251 mm, 250 mm, 249 mm, 248 mm, 247 mm, 246 mm, 245 mm, 244 mm, 243 mm, 242 mm, 241 mm, 240 mm, 239 mm, 238 mm, 237 mm, 236 mm, 235 mm, 234 mm, 233 mm, 232 mm, 231 mm, 230 mm, 229 mm, 228 mm, 227 mm, 226 mm, 225 mm, 224 mm, 223 mm, 222 mm, 221 mm, 220 mm, 219 mm, 218 mm, 217 mm, 216 mm, 215 mm, 214 mm, 213 mm, 212 mm, 211 mm, 210 mm, 209 mm, 208 mm, 207 mm, 206 mm, 205 mm, 204 mm, 203 mm, 202 mm, 201 mm, 200 mm, 199 mm, 198 mm, 197 mm, 196 mm, 195 mm, 194 mm, 193 mm, 192 mm, 191 mm, 190 mm, 189 mm, 188 mm, 187 mm, 186 mm, 185 mm, 184 mm, 183 mm, 182 mm,181 mm, 180 mm, 179 mm, 178 mm, 177 mm, 176 mm, 175 mm, 174 mm, 173 mm, 172 mm, 171 mm, 170 mm, 169 mm, 168 mm, 167 mm, 166 mm, 165 mm, 164 mm, 163 mm, 162 mm, 161 mm, 160 mm, 159 mm, 158 mm, 157 mm, 156 mm, 155 mm, 154 mm, 153 mm, 152 mm, 151 mm, 150 mm, 149 mm, 148 mm, 147 mm, 146 mm, 145 mm, 144 mm, 143 mm, 142 mm, 141 mm, 140 mm, 139 mm, 138 mm,137 mm, 136 mm, 135 mm, 134 mm, 133 mm, 132 mm, 131 mm,

[0049] 130 mm, 129 mm, 128 mm, 127 mm, 126 mm, 125 mm, 124 mm,

[0050] 123 mm, 122 mm, 121 mm, 120 mm, 119 mm, 118 mm, 117 mm,

[0051] 116 mm, 115 mm, 114 mm, 113 mm, 112 mm, 111 mm, 110 mm,

[0052] 109 mm, 108 mm, 107 mm, 106 mm, 105 mm, 104 mm, 103 mm,

[0053] 102mm, 101mm, 100mm, 99mm, 98mm, 97mm, 96mm, 95mm, 94mm, 93mm, 92mm, 91mm, 90mm, 89mm, 88mm, 87mm, 86mm, 85mm, 84mm, 83mm, 82mm, 81mm, 80 mm, 79mm, 78mm, 77mm, 76mm, 75mm, 74mm, 73mm, 72mm, 71mm, 70mm, 69mm, 68mm, 67mm, 66mm, 65mm, 64mm, 63mm, 62mm, 61mm, 60mm, 59mm, 58mm, 57mm, 56mm, 55mm, 54 mm, 53mm, 52mm, 51mm, 50mm, 49mm, 48mm, 47mm, 46mm, 45mm, 44mm, 43mm, 42mm, 41mm, 40mm, 39mm, 38mm, 37mm, 36mm, 35mm, 34mm, 33mm, 32mm, 31mm, 30mm, 29mm, 28mm, 27mm, 26mm, 25mm, 24mm, 23mm, 22mm, 21mm or 20mm.

[0054] Within the scope of the invention, it was recognized that a length of 20 mm to 300 mm proves to be particularly advantageous, as this makes the surgical device lightweight, handy and portable.

[0055] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the surgical device has a distal end beveled at an angle α. In other words, the free end face of the distal end of the sleeve is angled at an angle α with respect to a longitudinal axis of the sleeve. The angle α can be between 0° and 170°. Particularly preferably, the angle α is at least 0°, 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°, 2°, 2.5°, 3°, 3.5°, 4°, 4.5°, 5°, 5.5°, 6°, 6.5°, 7°, 7.5°, 8°, 8.5°, 9°, 9.5°, 10°, 10.5°, 11°, 11.5°, 12°, 12.5°, 13°, 13.5°, 14°, 14.5°, 15°, 15.5°, 16°, 16.5°, 17°, 17.5°, 18°, 18.5°, 19°, 19.5°, 20°, 20.5°, 21°, 21.5°, 22°, 22.5°, 23°, 23.5°, 24°, 24.5°, 25°, 25.5°, 26°, 26.5°, 27°, 27.5°, 28°, 28.5°, 29°, 29.5°, 30°, 30.5°, 31°, 31.5°, 32°, 32.5°, 33°, 33.5°, 34°, 34.5°, 35°, 35.5°, 36°, 36.5°, 37°, 37.5°, 38°, 38.5°, 39°, 39.5°, 40°, 40.5°, 41° 41.5°, 42°, 42.5°, 43°, 43.5°, 44°, 44.5°, 45°, 45.5°, 46°, 46.5°, 47°, 47.5°, 48°, 48.5°, 49°, 49.5°, 50°, 50.5°, 51°, 51.5°, 52°, 52.5°, 53°, 53.5°54°, 54,5°, 55°, 55,5°, 56°, 56,5°, 57°, 57,5°, 58°, 58,5°, 59°, 60°, 60,5°, 61°, 61,5°, 62°, 62,5°, 63°, 63,5°, 64°, 64,5°, 65°, 65,5°, 66°, 66,5°, 67°, 67,5°, 68°, 68,5°, 69°, 69,5°, 70°, 70,5°, 71°, 71,5°, 72°, 72,5°. 73°, 73,5°, 74°, 74,5°, 75°, 75,5°, 76°, 76,5°, 77°, 77,5°, 78°, 78,5°, 79°, 79,5°, 80°, 80,5°, 81°, 81,5°, 82°, 82,5°, 83°, 83,5°, 84°, 84,5°, 85°, 85,5°, 86°, 86,5°, 87°, 87,5°, 88°, 88,5°, 89°, 89,5°, 90°, 90,5°, 91°, 91,5°, 92°, 92,5°, 93°, 93,5°, 94°, 94,5°, 95°, 95,5°, 96°, 96,5°, 97°, 97,5°, 98°, 98,5°, 99°, 99,5°, 100°, 100,5°, 101°, 101,5°, 102°, 102,5°, 103°, 103,5°, 104°, 104,5°, 105°, 105,5°, 106°, 106,5°, 107°, 107,5°, 108°, 108,5°, 109°, 109,5°, 110°, 110,5°, 111°, 111,5°, 112°, 112,5°, 113°, 113,5°, 114°, 114,5°, 115°, 115,5°, 116°, 116,5°, 117°, 117,5°, 118°, 118,5°, 119°, 119,5°, 120°, 120,5°, 121°, 121,5°, 122°, 122,5°, 123°, 123,5°, 124°, 124,5°, 125°, 125,5°, 126°, 126,5°, 127°, 127,5°, 128°, 128,5°, 129°, 129,5°, 130°, 130,5°, 131°, 131,5°, 132°,132.5°, 133°, 133.5°, 134°, 134.5°, 135°, 135.5°, 136°, 136.5°, 137°, 137.5°, 138°, 138.5°, 139°, 139.5°, 140°, 140.5°, 141°, 141.5°, 142°, 142.5°, 143°, 143.5°, 144°, 144.5°, 145°, 145.5°, 145°, 145.5°, 146°, 146.5°, 147°, 147.5°, 148° 148.5°, 149°, 149.5°, 150°, 150.5°, 151.5°, 152°, 152.5°, 153°, 153.5°, 154°, 154.5°, 155°, 155.5°, 156°, 156.5°, 157°, 157.5°, 158°, 158.5°, 159°, 159.5°, 160°, 160.5°, 161°, 161.5°, 162°, 162.5°, 163°, 163.5°, 164°, 164.5°, 165°, 165.5°, 166° 166.5°, 167°, 167.5°, 168°, 168.5°, 169°, 169.5° or 170°.

[0056] Preferably, the angle 'a' is at most 170°, 169.5°, 169°, 168.5°, 168°, 167.5°, 167°, 166.5°, 166°, 155.5°, 155°, 150°, 144.5°, 144°, 143.5°, 143°, 142.5°, 142°, 141.5°, 141°, 139.5°, 139°, 138.5°, 138°, 137.5°, 137°, 136.5°, 136°, 135.5°, 135°, 134.5°, 134°, 133.5°, 133° 132.5°, 132°, 131.5°, 131°, 130.5°, 130°, 129.5°, 129°, 128.5°, 128°, 127.5°, 127°, 126.5°, 126°, 125.5°, 125°, 124.5°, 124°, 123.5°, 123°, 122.5°, 122°, 121.5°, 121°, 120.5°, 120°, 119.5°, 119°, 118.5°, 118°, 117.5°, 117°, 116.5°, 116°, 115.5° 115°, 114.5°, 114°, 113.5°, 113°, 112.5°, 112°, 111.5°, 111°, 110.5°, 110°, 109.5°, 109°, 108.5°, 108°, 107.5°, 107°, 106.5°, 106°, 105.5°, 105°, 104.5°, 104°, 103.5°, 103°, 102.5°, 102°, 101.5°, 101°, 105.5°, 100°, 99.5°, 99°, 88.5°, 88°, 87.5° 87°, 86.5°, 86°, 85.5°, 85°, 84.5°, 84°, 83.5°, 83°, 82.5°, 82°, 81.5°, 81°, 80.5°, 80°, 79.5°, 79°, 78.5°, 78°, 77.5°.77°, 76.5°, 76°, 75.5°, 75°, 74.5°, 74°, 73.5°, 73°, 72.5°, 72°, 71.5°, 70°, 69.5°, 69°, 68.5°, 68°, 67.5°, 67°, 66.5°, 66°, 65.5°, 65°, 64.5°, 64°, 63.5°, 63°, 62.5°, 62°, 61.5°, 61°, 60.5°, 60°, 59.5°, 59°, 58.5°, 58°, 57.5°, 57°, 56.5°, 56° 55.5°, 55°, 54.5°, 54°, 53.5°, 53°, 52.5°, 52°, 51.5°, 51°, 50.5°, 50°, 49.5°, 49°, 48.5°, 48°, 47.5°, 47°, 46.5°, 46°, 45.5°, 45°, 44.5°, 44°, 43.5°, 43°, 42.5°, 42°, 41.5°, 41°, 40.5°, 40°, 39.5°, 39°, 38.5°, 38°, 37.5°, 37°, 36.5°, 36° 35.5°, 35°, 34.5°, 34°, 33.5°, 33°, 32.5°, 32°, 31.5°, 30°, 29.5°, 29°, 28.5°, 28°, 27.5°, 27°, 26.5°, 26°, 25.5°, 25°, 24.5°, 24°, 23.5°, 23°, 22.5°, 22°, 21.5°, 21°, 20.5°, 20°, 19.5°, 19°, 18.5°, 18°, 17.5°, 17°, 16.5°, 16°, 15.5°, 15° 14.5°, 14°, 13.5°, 13°, 12.5°, 12°, 11.5°, 11°, 10.5°, 10°, 9.5°, 9°, 8.5°, 8°, 7.5°, 7°, 6.5°, 6°, 5.5°, 5°, 4.5°, 4°, 3.5°, 3°, 2.5°, 2°, 1.5°, 1°, 0.5° or 0°.

[0057] Within the scope of the invention, it was recognized that a beveled distal end proves particularly advantageous, as the beveled shape makes it easier to insert the surgical device into narrow and / or tortuous body channels, cavities, and / or spaces. Furthermore, the risk of injury to tissue and / or organs is significantly reduced by a beveled distal end. The term "distal end" here describes the end of the surgical device that is inserted into body channels, cavities, and / or spaces.

[0058] The term "beveled" generally describes an edge or surface that is not at right angles, but has been beveled or ground down at a certain angle.

[0059] The specially designed, beveled distal end allows the image sensor and / or light source of the surgical device to provide an improved viewing angle of the areas under examination. Furthermore, certain minimally invasive surgical procedures require the insertion of additional instruments into body channels, cavities, and / or spaces. A beveled end significantly facilitates handling in these situations.

[0060] Furthermore, it is conceivable that, according to a further embodiment, the device includes a power source, a control unit, and / or a regulating unit. Moreover, by directly integrating a power source, a control unit, and / or a regulating unit (both described elsewhere), within the surgical device, it is possible to operate the device independently of location and power sources using portable power sources, control units, and / or regulating units, thereby enabling broader applicability.

[0061] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable that the surgical device is used as an endoscope in minimally invasive surgery, particularly on the spine, in pain therapy, particularly in radiofrequency ablation, or as a neutral electrode, particularly as a neutral electrode for monopolar applications.

[0062] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the dependent claims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments are shown schematically in the figures.

[0063] Identical reference numbers in the individual figures denote identical or functionally equivalent elements, or elements that correspond to each other in terms of their function.

[0064] In detail, Fig. 1 shows an isometric representation of a surgical device according to the invention;

[0065] Fig. 2 shows another isometric representation of a surgical device according to the invention;

[0066] Fig. 3 shows a detailed view of the distal end of a surgical device according to the invention; and

[0067] Fig. 4 shows a further detailed view of the distal end of a surgical device according to the invention.

[0068] Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of a surgical device 100 according to the invention. The surgical device 100 comprises a sleeve 102 with a distal end 104, a proximal end 105 and a handle 101. The handle 101 has two connection options 31, 32 on the sleeve side and three further connection options 21, 22, 23 on the other end, which can be configured as data transmission or power connections.

[0069] Fig. 2 shows another isometric view of a surgical device 100 according to the invention. In essence, Fig. 2 shows the same features of the surgical device 100 from Fig. 1, whereby it can be clearly seen in the isometric view that the connection options 31, 32 on the handle 101 are arranged directly opposite each other.

[0070] Fig. 3 shows a detailed view of the distal end of a surgical device 100 according to the invention, in particular the surgical device 100 shown in Fig. 1. Within Fig. 3, it can be seen that the distal end 104 of the sleeve 102 is chamfered at an angle oc. Fig. 4 shows another detailed view of the distal end 104 of a surgical device 100 according to the invention as described in Figs. 1 and 2. The distal end 104 of the sleeve 102 has a working channel 103, which is arranged in the sleeve 102 offset from the center of the distal end 104. A rinsing channel 41, a suction channel 42, an image sensor 52, and at least one sensor 51, 53 are arranged laterally to the working channel 103. It can also be seen that the image sensor 52 is arranged centrally in the semicircular arrangement around the working channel 103.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Surgical device (100) for minimally invasive surgery, in particular on the spine, comprising a sleeve (102) in which a working channel (103) of circular cross-section, an image sensor (52), at least one sensor (51, 53), an irrigation channel (41) opening towards the distal end (104) of the surgical device (100) and a suction channel (42) opening towards the distal end (104) of the surgical device (100), wherein a fluid can be guided through the irrigation channel (41) and the suction channel (42), are accommodated in the sleeve (102). characterized by that the working channel (103) is arranged offset from the center of the distal end (104) in the sleeve (102), wherein the irrigation channel (41), the suction channel (42), the image sensor (52) and the at least one sensor (51, 53) are arranged laterally to the working channel (103) at the distal end (104) in the sleeve (102).

2. Surgical device (100) according to claim 1, characterized by that two to eight sensors (51, 53) are included.

3. Surgical device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, that at least one sensor (51, 53) is an electrical conductance sensor, current frequency sensor, current density sensor, pressure sensor (51) and / or temperature sensor (53).

4. Surgical device (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that the temperature sensor (53) is a thermocouple, in particular a thermocouple of type K.

5. Surgical device (100) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, that the pressure sensor (51) is a fiber optic pressure sensor, in particular a fiber optic pressure sensor based on a micro-electromechanical system.

6. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the image sensor (52) has a cross-section which is in a size ratio of 1:1 to 1:50 to the cross-section of the working channel (103).

7. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one probe is included.

8. Surgical device (100) according to claim 7, characterized by that at least one probe is a radio frequency probe and / or a probe for laser spectroscopy.

9. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement of the flushing channel (41), the suction channel (42), the image sensor (52), the at least one sensor (51, 53) and / or the at least one probe in the sleeve (102) is semicircular around the working channel (103).

10. Surgical device (100) according to claim 9, characterized by that the image sensor (52) is arranged centrally in the semicircular arrangement around the working channel (103).

11. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the surgical device (100) comprises a handle (101) and / or at least one connection (21, 22, 23) at the proximal end (105).

12. Surgical device (100) according to claim 11, characterized by that at least one connection (21, 22, 23, 31, 32) is suitable for a control and / or regulating unit, an energy source, a power supply (21), a liquid supply, a liquid discharge and / or a light guide.

13. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sleeve (102) has a length of 20 mm to 300 mm.

14. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the sleeve (102) is rigidly designed.

15. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the surgical device (100) has a distal end (104) beveled at an angle a, wherein the angle a is 0° to 170°.

16. Surgical device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the surgical device (100) includes a power source, a control unit and / or a regulating unit.

17. Use of a surgical device (100) according to one of the preceding claims as an endoscope in minimally invasive surgery, in particular on the spine, in pain therapy, in particular in radiofrequency ablation or as a neutral electrode, in particular as a neutral electrode of monopolar applications.

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