Electrosurgical Electrode Assembly Suction Channel Ablation
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Solution Overview
Problem
RF electrosurgical instruments face issues with suction performance due to tissue blocking the suction holes, which impairs tissue ablation and debris removal during minimally invasive surgeries.
Innovation Solution
An electrode assembly with a configuration that conducts electrical current through the suction channel to increase current density at the suction hole, allowing for effective ablation and clearing of tissue blockages, while maintaining primary ablation functions through external current paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If tissue is drawn into contact with the RF tip via the saline suction pathway, then tissue ablation is improved, but the suction hole becomes blocked by tissue reducing suction performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating an ablation effect at the suction hole aperture before tissue can block it. The electrode assembly is configured to conduct electrical current through the suction channel, generating an ablation effect that prevents tissue from entering and blocking the suction hole, thereby maintaining continuous suction performance during tissue ablation procedures
2Productivity
If current density is biased toward the outer peripheral edges of the RF tip, then tissue ablation at the edges is improved, but the suction hole receives insufficient current density to prevent blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different current density distributions at different locations of the RF tip. The electrode assembly conducts current through the suction channel to create high current density at the suction hole aperture, while the outer peripheral edges maintain their high current density for edge ablation. This localized differentiation allows the suction hole to receive sufficient current density to prevent blockage while maintaining effective edge ablation
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
The solution ensures continuous suction performance and effective tissue ablation at the suction hole, preventing blockages and maintaining optimal surgical site conditions.
Implementation Method 1
by conducting an electrical current through the suction channel, an ablation affect is achieved at the aperture and/or in the suction channel. Therefore, tissue that is lodged in the suction channel or blocking the channel at the aperture will be ablated
Implementation Method 2
The distal RF tip provides tissue ablation and/or coagulation effects at a surgical site when a RF power signal is delivered to the electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an end effector for an electrosurgical instrument, comprising an electrode assembly for delivering a radio-frequency (RF) power signal to a surgical site, the electrode assembly comprising an active electrode, a return electrode, and an insulating element in between the active electrode and the return electrode, the active electrode comprising an aperture which provides access to a suction channel extending through the insulating element to a lumen for carrying fluid from the surgical site, wherein the lumen is at least in part defined by an inner surface of the return electrode, wherein the electrode assembly is configured to conduct electrical current between the active electrode and the return electrode via a first current path through the suction channel when the RF power signal is supplied to the electrodes.