Electrode Configurations for Electrosurgical Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrosurgical instruments face challenges in minimizing size while maintaining functionality for multiple procedures, particularly when dealing with dry tissue that requires higher energy for cutting and is difficult to seal effectively, due to size constraints and the need to accommodate various actuation components.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pair of jaw members with electrodes that can alter polarity and geometry to efficiently deliver electrical energy, including surface features for energy concentration and thermal management, allowing for precise control of thermal profiles during sealing and cutting procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sealing operations are performed using electrical energy, then tissue sealing is achieved, but tissue dries out requiring higher energy for subsequent cutting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrode into multiple independent electrodes (first electrode, second electrode, third electrode) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different electrodes to perform different functions (sealing vs. cutting) with optimized energy delivery patterns, preventing the need to deliver excessive energy that would dry out tissue during sealing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by alternating between sealing operations and cutting operations using different electrode configurations and energy patterns. The system can switch between different electrode polarities and energy delivery modes in a periodic manner, allowing tissue to be sealed when needed and cut when needed, preventing continuous energy exposure that would cause drying.
2Volume of moving object
If instrument size is minimized for minimally invasive applications, then patient trauma is reduced, but space for actuation components and multiple functionalities is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing an end effector with multiple electrodes that can perform both sealing and cutting operations. The same end effector structure with its multiple independently controllable electrodes can switch between different operational modes (sealing mode using first and second electrodes, cutting mode using second and third electrodes), eliminating the need for separate instruments for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges sealing and cutting functionalities into a single end effector assembly. By integrating multiple electrodes within one end effector structure that can be controlled by a single actuator system, the patent combines what would traditionally require separate instruments into one unified device, reducing overall instrument size while maintaining multiple functionalities.
3Ease of operation
If electrical energy is used for cutting dry tissue, then cutting capability is maintained, but energy requirements increase and cutting accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using the second electrode specifically positioned to contact the distal tip of the end effector for cutting operations. This localized electrode configuration concentrates energy delivery precisely where cutting is needed, improving cutting accuracy on dry tissue while minimizing overall energy consumption compared to using broader electrode surfaces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enables efficient sealing and cutting of tissue with reduced energy loss, maintaining tissue moisture during sealing and allowing for effective cutting with lower overall energy input, while minimizing instrument size and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
electrical energy from an ESU that is converted to thermal energy when the gripping end effectors grip a section of tissue
Data Source
AI summary
An electrosurgical instrument may comprise a pair of jaw members configured to move between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the pair of jaw members may be configured to exert a gripping force on material placed between working surfaces of the pair of jaw members. A first jaw member of the pair of jaw members may comprise a first electrode, and a second jaw member of the pair of jaw members may comprise a second electrode and a third electrode.