RU2693365C2 - Tissue thickness sensing system with staple cartridge - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions refers to surgical instruments for endoscopic, laparoscopic or robotic surgery. Surgical end effector for tissue treatment comprises a staple cartridge comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the staple cartridge is configured to staple tissue within an optimum range of tissue thickness, a stop movably connected relative to the proximal end of the cartridge, a tissue thickness sensing module located adjacent to the distal end of the cartridge, a power switch configured to connect to the tissue thickness sensing module, wherein the tissue thickness sensing module comprises a cover for protecting elements of the tissue thickness sensing module, a sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue between the abutment and the staple cartridge, and controller in communication by signals with sensor, wherein controller comprises identification means for determining type of staple cartridge, wherein controller is configured to use cassette-type signal and a tissue thickness signal to determine the tissue thickness finding in the optimum tissue thickness range and to generate a status signal indicating the compliance of the measured tissue thickness to the optimum range for the staple cartridge, wherein the controller is configured to maintain the tissue thickness perception module in a low power state condition while the power switch is connected to the tissue thickness sensing module, and wherein the controller is configured to switch the tissue thickness sensing module from the low power state to the active state when the power switch is disconnected from the tissue thickness sensing module. Staple cartridge for use in a surgical suturing instrument for tissue treatment comprises a body with staples, staples configured to be stored inside the body with staples, a module for sensing tissue thickness and a power key. Module for sensing tissue thickness for connection to surgical staple cartridge configured to treat tissue comprises a casing for protecting elements of a tissue thickness sensing module, a sensor configured to detect a magnetic field and generate a signal, a controller in communication by signals with a sensor, a transmitter in communication by signals with a controller, a power supply configured to supply power to the controller and transmitter.

EFFECT: using the group of inventions enables expand the range of surgical stapling devices.

16 cl, 15 dwg

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present description relates generally to surgical instruments for endoscopic, laparoscopic or robotic surgery. In particular, the present disclosure relates to surgical instruments comprising an end effector for stitching tissue with staples.

Surgical suturing devices are used to simultaneously perform a longitudinal incision of the tissue and establish rows of staples on both sides of the incision. Such instruments usually have an end effector consisting of two joint branches, which, if the instrument is intended for endoscopic or laparoscopic use, can be passed through the lumen of the cannula. In one embodiment, a cartridge with brackets is installed in one of the branches, containing at least two rows of brackets arranged on each side, one on each side of the scalpel channel defined in this document. The other handle may be a thrust plate having staple-forming recesses corresponding to rows of cassette brackets. The tool can also include a set of cam or lifting surfaces, which, making distal movement, pass through the holes in the bracket with brackets and come into contact with the guides in which the brackets are located, so that the latter are pushed in the direction of the bearing plate. At the same time, the cutting tool (scalpel) moves along the branch in the distal direction so that the fixed tissue is simultaneously dissected and fixed (for example, with staples).

An example of a surgical suturing apparatus used in endoscopic surgery is described in US Pat. No. 7,000,818, entitled "Surgical suturing instrument with separate independent closure and stapling systems", the description of which is incorporated herein by reference. In the process of applying the doctor can press the elements of the branches of the stapling instrument to the fabric to position the fabric before starting. If the doctor believes that the jaws are holding the fabric properly, he can activate the surgical stapler, thus cutting and stitching the fabric. Simultaneous cutting and stapling of tissues excludes complications that may arise when these surgical procedures are performed in succession with various surgical instruments that, respectively, only dissect or only sew fabrics.

Surgical stapling instruments are designed to be used in an optimal range of tissue thicknesses. Currently, doctors must use video translation and intuition to determine if the thickness of the tissue fixed in the terminal clamp is in the optimal range. It may take years of practice to develop appropriate skills for determining the required tissue thickness for a particular cassette, and some doctors can never reach this level. For these purposes, a simple and reliable system is required, which makes it possible to determine whether the thickness of the tissue fixed in the terminal clamp corresponds to the optimum range for this cassette with brackets.

STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

A device comprising a Hall sensor, a reed switch, a power source and a controller in communication with a power supply unit is described in various embodiments. The controller is configured to determine the state of the reed switch. The magnet is removable near the device. The magnet is designed to create a magnetic field sufficient to maintain the reed switch in a state of saturation. The controller determines the saturation state and keeps the device in the low-power state while the reed switch is in the saturation state. When the magnet is retracted from the device, the reed switch switches to an unsaturated state. The controller determines the unsaturated state of the reed switch and switches the device from the low-power state to the active power state.

A surgical end effector is described in various embodiments. Surgical end effector contains a cartridge with brackets, having a proximal end and a distal end. The cartridge with brackets is made with the possibility of stitching tissue with staples in the optimal range of tissue thickness. The thrust element is movably connected relative to the proximal end of the cassette with brackets. The tissue thickness perception module is located near the distal end of the cartridge with brackets. The tissue thickness perception module contains a sensor and a controller. The sensor is configured to generate a signal that determines the thickness of the fabric located between the anvil plate and the bracket with brackets. The controller has a connection to the sensor. The controller contains an identification device for determining the type of cassette with brackets. The type of cartridge with brackets and the thickness of the fabric are used to determine whether the thickness of the fabric fixed between the anvil plate and the cartridge with the brackets corresponds to the optimum range for this cartridge.

A bracket with brackets for use with a surgical stapler is described in various embodiments. The staple cartridge has a body with brackets containing a proximal end and a distal end. The tissue thickness perception module is located near the distal end of the body with brackets. The tissue thickness perception module contains a controller and a sensor. The power key is removable next to the case with brackets. The controller is configured to determine the power key and maintain the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric in a state of low power consumption, while the power key is installed. When the power switch is turned off, the controller puts the tissue thickness sensing module into a state of active power.

In particular, according to one aspect of the invention, a surgical end effector for treating tissue is provided, wherein the surgical end effector comprises:

a bracket with brackets, including a proximal end and a distal end, with the bracket with brackets made with the possibility of stapling tissue within the optimal range of tissue thickness;

emphasis, movably connected relative to the proximal end of the cassette with brackets;

the module of perception of the thickness of the fabric, located adjacent to the distal end of the cassette with brackets;

power switch, made with the ability to connect to the module perception of the thickness of the fabric;

moreover, the tissue thickness perception module contains:

a casing to protect the elements of the tissue thickness perception module;

a sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue located between the abutment and the bracket with brackets; and

the controller in connection with the signals from the sensor, the controller contains identifying means for determining the type of cassette with brackets, the controller is configured to use a signal such as a cassette with brackets and a signal of fabric thickness to determine if the fabric thickness is in the optimal range of fabric thickness and generate a state signal showing compliance of the measured tissue thickness to the optimum range for a cartridge with brackets, and

the controller is configured to maintain the tissue thickness perception module in the low-power state while the power switch is connected to the tissue thickness perception module, and the controller is configured to convert the tissue thickness perception module from the low-power state to the active state when the power key is disconnected from the sensing module fabric thickness.

Preferably, in the surgical end effector, the stop member comprises a magnet, and the sensor is adapted to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnet.

Preferably, in the surgical end effector, the sensor comprises a Hall sensor.

It is useful for the surgical end effector to have a tissue thickness perception module containing a transmitter in response to signals from the controller.

It is likely that in the surgical end effector, the controller is configured to generate a signal indicating that the tissue thickness is in the optimal range of the tissue thickness, and in which the transmitter is adapted to transmit the signal.

Most preferably, in the surgical end effector, the tissue thickness perception module contains at least one power source configured to provide power to the controller.

It is most desirable that the identification tool in the surgical end effector contains a memory block associated with the controller, and the memory block is configured to store data about the type of cartridge with brackets.

It is most useful that in the surgical end effector the identifying agent contains:

first terminals located on the tissue thickness perception module;

the second terminals located at the distal end of the cassette with brackets, the subgroup of the first terminals being adapted to communicate on signals with the second terminals, and wherein the subgroup of the first terminals configured to communicate on the signals with the second terminals is configured to determine the type of cassette with brackets.

It is extremely preferable that, in a surgical end effector, the module of tissue thickness perception contains:

first terminal; and

a second terminal, the first terminal and the second terminal being configured to receive the power switch.

According to another aspect of the invention, a cassette with brackets is provided for use in a surgical stapling instrument for treating tissue, the brackets cassette comprising

case with brackets, including proximal end and distal end;

brackets made with the possibility of storage with the release inside the case with brackets, and brackets made with the possibility of using for stitching tissue in the optimal range of the thickness of the fabric.

the module of perception of the thickness of the fabric, located adjacent to the distal end of the body with brackets;

power switch, made with the ability to connect to the module perception of the thickness of the fabric;

moreover, the tissue thickness perception module contains:

a casing to protect the elements of the tissue thickness perception module;

a sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue located adjacent to the body with the brackets; and

the controller, in connection with the signals from the sensor, the controller contains identifying means for determining the type of cassette with brackets, and the controller is configured to use a signal such as a cassette with brackets and a signal of fabric thickness to determine if the fabric thickness is in the optimal range of fabric thickness and generate a state signal showing that the measured tissue thickness matches the optimum range for a cartridge with brackets, and

the controller is configured to maintain the tissue thickness perception module in the low-power state while the power switch is connected to the tissue thickness perception module, and the controller is configured to convert the tissue thickness perception module from the low-power state to the active state when the power key is disconnected from the sensing module fabric thickness.

Preferably, in a cassette, a tissue thickness perception module comprises:

transmitter in connection with the signals from the controller; and

at least one power source configured to provide power to the controller and transmitter.

Preferably in the cassette, the controller is configured to generate a signal indicating that the tissue thickness is in the optimal range of the tissue thickness, and wherein the transmitter is adapted to transmit the signal.

It is useful that the identification means in the cassette contain a memory block in connection with signals from the controller, and wherein the memory block is adapted to store data about the type of the cassette with brackets.

Particularly preferably, in the cassette identifying means contained:

first terminals located on the tissue thickness perception module;

second terminals located at the distal end of the housing with brackets, the subgroup of the first terminals being configured to communicate on signals with the second terminals, and wherein the subgroup of the first terminals configured to communicate on the signals with the second terminals is configured to determine the type of the cassette with brackets.

It is especially desirable that the cassette contains a Hall sensor.

According to another aspect of the invention, a tissue thickness perception module is proposed for attaching to a surgical brace cartridge configured to process tissue, the tissue thickness perception module being configured to install a power key, the tissue thickness perception module comprising:

a casing to protect the elements of the tissue thickness perception module;

a sensor capable of detecting a magnetic field and generating a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue located adjacent to the surgical cassette with brackets;

the controller in connection with the signals from the sensor, the controller contains identifying means for determining the type of cartridge with brackets, and the controller is configured to use a signal like a cassette with brackets and a signal of tissue thickness to determine if the thickness of the tissue is in the optimal range of tissue thickness for a surgical cassette with brackets and generating a state signal indicating that the measured thickness of the fabric corresponds to the optimum range for a cartridge with brackets, the controller being designed with zhnosti maintain perception module tissue thickness in a low power state until the power switch is connected to the module perception tissue thickness, and wherein the controller is configured to transfer module tissue thickness perception of low-power state to an active state when disconnected from a power key module perception tissue thickness;

transmitter in connection with the signals from the controller; and

at least one power source configured to provide power to the controller and transmitter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the various embodiments of the present invention are set forth in detail in the appended claims. However, various embodiments of the present invention relating to the device and methods of operation, as well as their advantages, will be best understood with reference to the following description given in accordance with the following accompanying drawings:

In FIG. Figures 1 and 2 show types of swivel surgical instruments.

In FIG. 3-6 are views with a spatial separation of the components of the end clamp and the core of the surgical instrument shown in FIG. 1 and 2.

In FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an end clamp comprising a tissue thickness perception module.

In FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of a tissue thickness perception module.

In FIG. 9A and 9B are internal views of the tissue thickness perception module shown in FIG. eight.

In FIG. 10 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a tissue thickness perception module.

In FIG. 11 shows one embodiment of a tissue thickness perception module configured to transmit a signal of tissue thickness to a remote device.

In FIG. 12 shows one embodiment of a tissue thickness perception module configured to install a power switch comprising a magnet.

In FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of a hall sensor.

In FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a tissue thickness perception module configured to obtain a power key comprising end clamps.

In FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of a method for maintaining a tissue thickness perception module in a state of reduced power consumption.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

 The author of this application also owns a US patent application entitled “Fabric Thickness Perception System with a Cassette with Brackets”, patent attorney number END7198USNP / 120307, filed on the same day and fully incorporated herein by reference.

This document will provide a detailed description of several embodiments of the invention, including embodiments, showing examples of the performance of surgical instruments comprising a tissue thickness perception module. Where possible, identical or similar identification numbers may be used in the figures, which may denote the same or similar functional elements. The figures for illustrative purposes only show examples of embodiments of the described surgical instruments and / or methods for their use. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative examples of embodiments of the structures and methods shown in this document can be applied without departing from the principles described here.

It should be understood that the terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein in relation to the surgeon holding the tool handle. So, the end effector is located distal with respect to the handle located proximally. It should also be understood that for convenience and clarity, such spatial terms as "vertical" and "horizontal" are used in this document in relation to drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in a variety of orientations and positions, and these terms are not limiting and absolute.

In accordance with various embodiments, said surgical instrument may be actuated by an electric actuator, manually, or have a robotic control. US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,295, entitled "Surgical instruments with swivel with conductive channels for signal transmission"; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,323, entitled "Swivel joints with rotary actuators for surgical instruments"; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,338, entitled “Configurations of Disk Switches for Surgical Instruments”; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,499, entitled “Electromechanical Surgical Instrument with Alarm Relay”; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,460, entitled “Multiprocessor Electric Drive Control Unit for Modular Surgical Instruments”; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,358, entitled “Joystick Switch Configurations for Surgical Instruments”; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,481, entitled “End effector with sensor, straightened during extraction through the trocar”; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,518, entitled “Methods for the management of surgical instruments using removable devices”; US Patent Application Ser. No. 13 / 782,375, entitled “Rotary Surgical Instruments with Multiple Degrees of Freedom”; and US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 782,536, entitled “Smooth stop for surgical instruments”, which was filed on March 1, 2013 and is incorporated herein by reference.

In FIG. 1 and 2 are images of a surgical cutting-stapling instrument with an electric actuator 10 in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The embodiment depicted in the figures is a linear endoscopic instrument, and, as a rule, the embodiments of the instrument 10 described herein are linear endoscopic cutting and stapling surgical instruments. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this, and that in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention, the specified instrument may be an endoscopic instrument of another type, such as a circular or curved endoscopic cutting apparatus. Application for US patent No. 2008/0169332, published July 17, 2008, entitled "Surgical suturing instrument with a curved cutting element", is fully incorporated into this document by reference. In addition, the described instrument may be a non-endoscopic surgical cutting and stapling instrument, such as a tool for laparoscopic or open surgery or a robotic surgical instrument. In some embodiments, the implementation of the surgical instrument 10 may have a recording function. US Patent Ser. No. 7,845,537, issued December 7, 2010, entitled “Surgical Instrument with Recording Functions,” is fully incorporated herein by reference.

Surgical instrument 10 shown in FIG. 1 and 2, comprises a handle 6, a rod 8 and an end effector 12 connected to the rod 8. In various embodiments, the end effector 12 may be hinged on the hinge joint 14. The hinge control device 16 may be provided adjacent to the handle 6 to perform rotation end clamp 12 at the hinge joint 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the end effector 12 is configured to work as an endocater for clamping, dissecting and sewing the fabric, although in other embodiments Other types of terminal clamps can be used, such as terminal clamps for other types of surgical devices, such as clamps, dividers, stapling instruments, clip-on attachments, access devices, medication / gene therapy devices, ultrasound, RF or laser devices, etc.

The handle 6 of the tool 10 may include a closing trigger 18 and a trigger 20 for activating the end clamp 12. It should be understood that the instruments having end clamps related to various surgical procedures may have different numbers or types of trigger mechanisms or other suitable control devices for operating end clamp 12. The figure shows that the end effector 12 is separated from the handle 6 by an elongated shaft 8. In one embodiment, the surgeon or the operator of the tool 10 can measure nyat position end clamp 12 relative to the shaft 8 via the control unit 16. U.S. Patent № 7,670,334, entitled "Surgical instrument with articulated end clamp", fully incorporated herein by reference.

The end effector 12, among other things, has a channel for staples 22 and a swivel clamping element, for example, an abutment plate 24, between which a distance is maintained to ensure effective stitching and dissection of tissues trapped by the end clamp 12 when the stop 24 is in the clamped position. The handle 6 includes a downward pistol grip 26 to which the surgeon presses the closing trigger 18 to clamp or press the support plate 24 to the channel for the brackets 22 of the end clip 12 to clamp the fabric placed between the support plate 24 and the channel 22. The trigger 20 is located further outside the closing trigger 18. When the closing trigger 18 is locked in the closed position, the trigger 20 can be turned slightly to the pistol grip 26, so that the operator can reach it ne hand. The operator can then pivot the trigger 20 to the pistol grip 12 to cause stitching and dissection of the clamped tissue in the end clip 12. In other embodiments, other types of clamping elements can be used besides the abutment plate 24. The handle 6 can also include an upper part 28, located above the user's hand when the user grips the pistol grip 26 by hand. The thrust element 24 may have a magnet 78, which is located at the distal end of the thrust plate 24.

When using the tool, the trigger mechanism 18 can be activated first. When the doctor is satisfied with the position of the end clamp 12, the doctor can slide the closing trigger 18 into its fully closed, fixed position near the pistol grip 26. Pulling the hook of the closing trigger 18 rotates the thrust plate 24 downward and clamping the fabric between the anvil plate 24 and the cassette with brackets 34 located inside the channel 22. Then the trigger 20 can be pressed. Pressing the start button th hook 20 causes the cutting instrument in the end clamp 12 fixed dissecting tissue, and fasteners in the cartridge with the brackets 34 fastened tissue dissection. When the surgeon releases the trigger 20, the hook returns to the open position (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In order to unlock the closing trigger 18, it is necessary to press the locking button 19 on the handle 6. The locking button 19 can be made in various forms, examples of which are described in US Patent Application No. 2007/0175955. Application for US patent No. 2007/0175955, entitled "Surgical cutting and suturing instrument with a locking mechanism for closing the trigger mechanism", is fully incorporated into this document by reference.

The end effector 12 may include a cutting tool, such as a scalpel, for example, for cutting the tissue fixed in the end clamp 12 when the user presses the trigger hook 20. The end effector 12 may also contain means for stitching tissue cut by the cutting tool electrodes, glue, etc. The tool 10 may also contain a system for closing (clamping) the end clamp when closing (drawing in) the closing trigger mechanism 18.

Moving translationally or rotationally, the drive shaft located inside the shaft 8 of the tool 10 can actuate the cutting tool and means of fastening the fabric end clamp 12. For direct or indirect (through a chain of gears) drive shaft control can be used electric drive located in the pistol grip 26 the handle 6 of the tool 10. In various embodiments, the implementation of the engine can be a drive brush DC motor, having a maximum speed of rotation, n For example, about 25,000 rpm. In other embodiments, the drive may be a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric drive. Application for US patent No. 2010/0089970, published April 15, 2010, entitled "Surgical cutting and stapling apparatus equipped with an electric drive, with an ejector system, retractable manually" and US patent No. 8,210,411, issued July 3, 2012, entitled "Surgical Electric cutting tools ”are fully incorporated herein by reference. In the pistol grip 26 of the handle 6, near the drive, a battery (or power source, or power supply), for example, a lithium-ion battery, can be placed. The battery provides power to the drive through the drive control circuit. In accordance with various embodiments, several series-connected batteries can be used as the energy source for supplying energy to the drive. In addition, the power supply can be replaceable and (or) rechargeable.

In FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an end clamp 12 in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the end effector 12 may include, in addition to the previously indicated channel 22 and the stop 24, the cutting tool 32, the slide 33, the cartridge with the brackets 34, removably mounted in the channel 22, and the helical rod 36. Cutting tool 32 may be, for example, a scalpel. The thrust element 24 can pivotally open and close on the hinge pins 25 connected to the proximal end of the channel 22. The thrust element 24 can also have a tongue 27 at the proximal end inserted into a part of the closing mechanism for opening and closing the thrust element 24. When the closing trigger 18 actuated, i.e. the user of the tool 10 presses it; the stop element 24 can rotate around the axis of the hinge 25 to a fixed (or closed) position, thereby fixing the fabric between channel 22 and the stop If the fixing of the end clamp 12 is sufficient, the operator can activate the trigger 20, while the scalpel 32 and the slide 33 move along channel 22, dissecting the tissues fixed by end clamp 12. As a result of movement of the slide 33 along channel 22 of the bracket (not shown) from the cassette with brackets 34 stitch incised fabric, resting against the pressed thrust element 24, which bends them, fixing the dissected fabric. In various embodiments, the sled 33 may be an integral component of the cassette 34. The sled 33 may form part of the cassette 34, while when the scalpel 32 retracts after cutting the tissue, the sled 33 does not retract with the scalpel 32 and remain at least with the partially activated cassette with brackets 34.

In FIG. 4-5 are presented unassembled, and in FIG. 6 shows in side view an end effector 12 and a rod 8 in accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the invention. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the rod 8 may include a proximal closing tube 40 and a distal closing tube 42 connected by hinge links 44. The distal closing tube 42 includes an opening 45 into which the tongue 27 at the stop 24 for opening and closing the stop 24 is inserted, as further described below. A proximal core tube 46 may be located inside the closure tubes 40, 42. Inside the proximal core tube 46 there may be a main rotational (or proximal) drive rod 48, which is connected to the secondary (or distal) drive rod 50 via a conical gear wheels assembly 52. The secondary drive rod 50 is connected to the drive gear 54, which engages the proximal drive gear 56 of the screw rod 36. The vertical bevel gear 52b can be located and rotated in the bore 57 at the distal end of the proximal core tube 46. The secondary drive rod 50 and drive gears 54, 56 can be enclosed in the distal core tube 58 and the main drive shaft 48, the auxiliary drive shaft 50 and the hinge block (for example , bevel gear block 52a-c) herein, sometimes referred to as the “main drive shaft unit”.

The bearing 38, located at the distal end of the channel 22 for brackets, accepts a screw rod 36, which allows the screw rod 36 to rotate freely with respect to the channel 22. The screw rod 36 can dock with a threaded hole (not shown) of the scalpel 32 so that when the rod is rotated 36, the scalpel 32 progressively moves distally or proximally (depending on the direction of rotation) in the channel 22 for the staples. Accordingly, when the main drive shaft 48 rotates when pressed on the trigger 20, the set of bevel gears 52 a-c causes the rotation of the auxiliary drive shaft 50, which in turn, due to the connection of the driving mechanisms 54 and 56, causes the screw shaft 36 to rotate, which causes the pushing the scalpel element 32 can be moved along the channel 22 and cut the tissues seized by the end clip 12. The sled 33 can be made of plastic, for example, and may have an inclined distal surface. During movement of the slide 33 along channel 22, the inclined front surface may push or move the brackets in the cassette with brackets 34 in the clamped fabric opposite the anvil plate 24. The stopper 24 bends the brackets, thus fastening the dissected fabric. When the scalpel 32 is retracted, the scalpel 32 and sled 33 can be unhooked, while the sled 33 remains at the distal end of the channel 22.

In the illustrated embodiment, a rotating screw shaft 36 is used in the end clip 12 to drive the cutting tool 32. Such a rotating screw shaft 36 can be used in embodiments that use a rotating drive element. In other embodiments, the implementation for actuating the cutting tool can be used, for example, the drive element, making longitudinal reciprocating motion. When using the longitudinal reciprocating drive element, the end effector 12 can be appropriately modified.

In accordance with various embodiments, the staple cartridge 34 may include a tissue thickness perception module 102, which determines the thickness of the tissue fixed in the terminal clamp 12 between the channel with the staples 22 (including the staple cartridge 34) and the stop element 24. In accordance with various non-limiting options for implementation, as shown in FIG. 7, the thickness perception module 102 may be placed near the distal end 62 of the cassette with brackets 34 so that it is distal, for example, with respect to the brackets of the cassette with brackets 34 when staples are applied. In FIG. 8-9B shows one embodiment of a fabric thickness perception module 102. As shown in FIG. 8, the thickness perception module 102 may comprise a case 103 to protect the elements of the module 102 during use. In FIG. 9A and 9B show one view of the thickness sensing module of the fabric 102 without the casing 103. As shown in FIG. 9A and 9B, the thickness sensing module of the fabric 102 may include a fabric thickness sensor 104, a controller 106, a radio module 108, a power supply 110 and an antenna 112.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the sensor thickness of the fabric 104 may be configured to generate a signal that determines the thickness of the fabric located between the anvil plate 24 and the channel for staples 22. As a sensor for the thickness of the fabric 104 can be used any suitable sensor to determine the thickness of the fabric clamped in the end clamp 12. For example, a magnetic sensor, a magnetic inductive sensor, a magnetic resistive sensor (AMR, GMR), an ultrasonic sensor, a radio frequency sensor and / or any other suitable sensor. In some embodiments, the fabric thickness sensor 104 may be configured to detect the magnetic field generated by a magnet 78 located at the distal end 80 of the anvil plate 24. When the surgeon closes the anvil plate 24 by pressing the closure trigger 18, the magnet 78 turns down and approaches the sensor thickness of the fabric 104, changing the magnetic field determined by the sensor thickness of the fabric 104 when the thrust plate 24 rotates into a closed (fixed) position. The magnetic field strength of magnet 78 determined by the thickness gauge of the fabric 104 characterizes the distance between the cassette with brackets 34 and the anvil plate 24, which in turn characterizes the thickness of the fabric fixed between the cassette with the brackets 34 and the anvil plate 24 when the end clip 12 is converted into a closed (fixed a) position. For example, a greater distance between a cassette with brackets 34 and an anvil plate 24 and a correspondingly weaker magnetic field, as determined by the thickness sensor 104, may indicate the presence of a thick fabric between the cassette with brackets 34 and an anvil plate 24. And a smaller distance between the cassette with brackets 34 and an anvil 24 and a correspondingly stronger magnetic field, detected by the thickness gauge of the fabric 104, may indicate the presence of a thin tissue between the cassette with brackets 34 and the anvil plate 24. In some embodiments I may use a Hall sensor as a gauge for fabric thickness 104.

The controller 106 may be configured to control one or several operations of the tissue thickness perception module 102. The controller 106 may communicate with the fabric thickness sensor 104. Signals may be transmitted via wired and / or wireless communication. The controller 106 may be configured to control the operation of the thickness sensor of the fabric 104, the transmitter 108 and / or the power source 110. In some embodiments, the controller 106 may be configured to perform one or more processes that control the thickness thickness perception module 102 and / or end clamp 12.

In some embodiments, the controller 106 may include a device for identifying the type of a cassette with brackets located in the channel for the brackets 22. The cassette with the brackets 34 may be configured to be used within an optimal range of tissue thickness, and the controller 106 may be configured to determine compliance / suitability of a particular cassette with brackets under specific conditions. For example, in some embodiments, the staple cassette 34 may contain a plurality of long brackets for stitching thick tissue. For example, in some embodiments, the implementation of the cartridge with brackets 34 may contain many short brackets, designed to sew a thin fabric. When the optimum range of tissue thickness for a cartridge with brackets 34 requires the use of longer brackets, when attempting to use a cartridge intended for stitching thin tissue, surgical instrument 2 warns the surgeon or, for example, blocks it in some cases. The identification device can be configured to determine the type of cartridge with brackets located in the channel for the brackets 22, ensuring that the correct type of cassette with brackets 34 is installed, corresponding to the thickness of the fabric being sewn.

In some embodiments, the fabric thickness perception module 102 may comprise a radio module 108. The radio module 108 may be a low-power radio module for two-way data exchange over a wireless channel using a wireless data transfer protocol with a remote device, for example, a receiver located in the handle 6 of the tool 10. In accordance with various embodiments, the radio module 108 may exchange data with a remote device at a frequency at which passage radio signal through human tissue. For data exchange between the radio module 108 and a remote device, the frequency range from 502 to 405 MHz, dedicated for servicing medical implants (MICS), the appropriate industrial / scientific / medical range (ISM), for example, with a 433 MHz or 915 MHz central frequency, Bluetooth 2.4 GHz frequency band or any other frequency band in which the radio signal passes through human tissue. In some embodiments of the invention, the antenna 112 may be connected to the radio module 108. In some embodiments of the invention, the antenna 112 may be integrated into the radio module 108.

The tissue thickness perception module 102 may contain one or more power sources 110 to provide independent power supply to the controller 106 or radio module 108. The power source 110 may be an appropriate battery to supply energy to the components of the fabric thickness perception module 102, for example, a lithium-ion battery or another appropriate battery. In some embodiments, several batteries may be used to provide power to the components of the fabric thickness perception module 102.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the signal type of the cassette with brackets, generated by the identifying means, as well as the signal generated by the thickness sensor 104, can be used to determine if the width of the fabric fixed between the channel for the clip 22 and the abutment plate 24 corresponds to the optimum thickness range of the fabric for the cartridge brackets 34. In some embodiments, the implementation of the controller 106 may be configured to determine the compliance of the thickness of the fabric fixed between the channel for the brackets 22 and the stop Tina 24, the optimal range. In some embodiments, the remote system, for example, a remote device located in the handle 6 of the surgical instrument 10, may be configured to perform a definition or at least a part of such a definition.

In FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of a fabric thickness perception module 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric thickness perception module 202 includes a fabric thickness sensor 204, a controller 206, a radio module 208, a power supply 210, and a reed switch 211. As shown in FIG. 10, the fabric thickness sensor 204 may be associated with the controller 206. As the fabric thickness sensor 204, any suitable sensor may be used to determine the thickness of the tissue fixed between the channel for the staples 22 and the support plate 24 of the surgical instrument 10. In some embodiments, the fabric thickness sensor 204 may be configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnet 78 located at the distal end 80 of the thrust plate 24. The magnetic field strength may characterize the thickness of the fabric, afiksirovannoy in end clamp 12. In some embodiments, as tissue thickness sensor 204 can be used by a Hall sensor.

The controller 206 shown in FIG. 10 may comprise an identification device 214 for determining the type of cassette with brackets 34. As an identification device 214, any appropriate means may be used by the controller 206 to determine the type of cartridge for the brackets. For example, in some embodiments, the identification device 214 may comprise a memory device. The memory device of the controller 206 may comprise one or more solid-state drives of a persistent storage device (ROM) and / or random access memory (RAM). In various embodiments, the implementation of the controller 206 and the memory device can be integrated into one integrated circuit (IC) or can be in different ICs. ROM devices can be a flash memory. The ROM device can store data characterizing the type of cartridge with brackets 34. For example, data indicating the type of cartridge with brackets 34 can be stored in the memory device. In some embodiments, data characterizing the optimal range of fabric thickness for the corresponding cartridge type with brackets 34.

In some embodiments, the identification device 214 may comprise a first plurality of terminals located at the proximal end of the tissue thickness perception module 102. The second plurality of terminals may be located at the distal end of the cassette with brackets 34. A subset of the first plurality of terminals may be associated with the second plurality of terminals. The type of cassette with brackets 34 may be determined by a subgroup of the first set of terminals that are connected to the second set of terminals. One or more circuits can be configured to identify a subgroup of the first plurality of terminals used for communication and transmit a cassette-type signal to the controller 106 based on the identified subgroup.

In various embodiments, the signal generated by the fabric thickness sensor 204 and the signal generated by the identifying device 214 can be used to determine if the fabric thickness fixed in the terminal clamp 12 matches the signal thickness of the fabric thickness to the optimum range for the tape cassette 34 on the base signal type cassettes with brackets. For example, the fabric thickness determined by the fabric thickness signal can be compared to the optimal range of fabric thickness for a cassette with staples 34. In some embodiments, the controller 206 can be configured to determine if the measured thickness of the fabric matches the optimal range. For example, the controller 206 may include a memory device configured to store information about the types of cartridges with brackets and their respective optimal tissue thickness ranges. When the fabric thickness sensing module 202 goes into an active state, the identifying device 214 can send a cassette type signal with brackets to the controller 206. When the fabric is fixed in the end clamp 12, the controller 206 can receive a signal from the fabric thickness sensor 204, indicating the thickness of the fabric terminal clamp 12. Controller 206 can access a memory device and compare a cassette-type signal with brackets formed by the identifying device 214 with the types of cartridges stored in the memory. If the installed cassette type with brackets 34 matches the cassette type stored in the memory device, the controller 206 can refer to the optimal tissue thickness range for the cassette 34 type stored in the memory. The controller 206 can compare the optimal tissue thickness range for the cassette tape with the brackets 34 with the tissue thickness detected by the sensor 204, and can generate a state signal indicating that the measured tissue thickness corresponds to the optimum range for the staple cartridge 34. The controller 206 may Vat status signal on the radio 208 for transmission. In some embodiments, the radio module 208 may transmit a state signal to a receiver located in the handle 6 of the surgical instrument 10. In some embodiments, the radio module 208 may transmit a state signal to a receiver connected to a remote device, such as an operating video display 80, containing the receiver 82 or remote a computer system 84 comprising a receiver 86 (see FIG. 11).

The cartridge with brackets 34 may not be recognized by the identifying device 214. In some embodiments, if the identifying device 214 cannot recognize the type of cartridge 34 inserted into the channel for the brackets 22, the controller 206 may warn the surgeon that the type of cartridge with brackets is not recognized . The warning may be in any suitable form, for example, audible, visual and / or sensory. The warning may inform the surgeon that the cartridge with brackets 34 is not recognized and that the surgeon must be careful when using the installed cartridge with brackets 34.

An open range can be used as the optimal range of tissue thickness for a particular staple cartridge. For example, in some embodiments, the optimal tissue thickness range for a particular staple cartridge may include any fabric thickness that is less than the maximum thickness. In other embodiments, the optimum tissue thickness range for a particular staple cartridge may include any fabric thickness that is greater than the minimum thickness. For example, a staple cartridge may contain long brackets suitable for stapling thick fabric or thin fabric. The optimal range of fabric thickness for this staple cartridge can be any fabric thickness that is less than the maximum fabric thickness for a staple cartridge.

In some embodiments, a universal staple cartridge 34 may be used, suitable for stitching fabrics of any thickness. If the identifying device 214 detects the presence of a universal cartridge with brackets, the controller 206 can signal the surgeon, indicating that a universal cartridge is installed, and the thickness of the tissue located between the support plate 24 and the bracket with brackets 34 does not affect the operation of the surgical instrument 2.

For example, a cartridge with brackets 34 may be located next to a tissue thickness perception module 202. A cartridge with brackets 34 and a tissue thickness perception module may be inserted into the channel for brackets 22. An identifying device may define a cartridge with brackets 34 as a cartridge having an optimum tissue thickness range between the first value x1 and the second value x2. The surgeon can fix the tissue between the anvil plate 24 and the staple cartridge 34. The tissue thickness sensor 204 can generate a signal indicating that the thickness of the tissue fixed between the anvil plate 24 and the staple cartridge 34 is x. In some embodiments, tissue thickness x may be within the optimum range from x1 to x2, and the tissue thickness perception module 202 may inform the surgeon that the tissue thickness x is within the optimum range.

In some embodiments, fabric thickness x may be outside the optimal range for a cassette with staples 34. For example, fabric thickness x may be less than the minimum value x1 of the optimum range. Surgical instrument 2 may issue a warning signal to the surgeon that tissue thickness x is less than the optimal range. Surgical instrument 2 may allow the fabric to be stapled if the measured tissue thickness x is less than the optimal range. As another example, fabric thickness x may be greater than the upper value x2 of the optimal range. Surgical instrument 2 may issue a warning to the surgeon that tissue thickness x is greater than the optimum range. In some embodiments, the implementation of the surgical instrument 2 can block the operation of the cartridge with brackets 34, if the measured tissue thickness x is greater than the optimum range. In some embodiments, the implementation of a surgical instrument may inform the surgeon about the need to replace the cassette with brackets 34 on the cassette intended for a different range of tissue thickness.

 In some embodiments, the controller 206 may be configured to transmit a tissue thickness signal and a cassette-type signal with brackets to the radio module 208 for further transmission to a remote device. The radio module 208 can transmit a tissue thickness signal and a cassette-type signal with brackets to a remote device located away from the terminal clamp 12, for example, the control circuit in the handle 6 of the surgical instrument 10 or the remote computer system 84. The remote device can be made to compare received signal thickness of the tissue, the received signal type cassettes with brackets with known optimal ranges of the thickness of the fabric. For example, a remote device can be configured to store in memory of known types of cassettes with brackets and optimal ranges of fabric thickness for known types of cassettes. The resulting cassette type signal can be compared with known types of cartridges. When determining coincidence, the obtained tissue thickness signal can be compared with the optimal tissue thickness range for a particular type of cassette with brackets 34. A removed device can generate a status signal indicating that the fabric thickness, measured based on the fabric thickness signal, matches the optimum range for a cassette with brackets 34 The contents of a remote device's memory can be updated, for example, by connecting to a wired and / or wireless network. New types of cartridges with brackets and optimal ranges of fabric thickness can be added to the contents of the memory of the removed device. In addition, optimal tissue thickness ranges for existing cassette types with brackets can be adjusted. When updating the contents of the memory of a remote device, you can add or update types of cartridges with brackets without having to update the contents of the memory of the tissue thickness perception module 202. In some embodiments, the remote device may receive updates periodically or updated when a new or modified cassette type is installed.

In some embodiments, after generating a status signal by the controller 206 or a remote device, this signal may be used to control the operation of the surgical instrument 10. For example, a status signal may be supplied to the drive control circuit in the handle 6 of the surgical instrument 10. The drive control circuit may be configured to control cutting and stapling operations performed by the surgical instrument 10. If the status signal indicates that the measured tissue thickness is in within the optimum range for a cassette with brackets 34, the drive control circuit can allow the cutting and stapling operations to be performed. If the status signal indicates that the measured tissue thickness is outside the optimum range for cassette 34, the drive control circuit may block the cutting and stapling operation and may alert the surgeon that the fabric thickness is outside the optimum range.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the status signal can be displayed to the surgeon through the feedback device. The feedback device may be located on the surgical instrument 10 and may be a remote device, such as a video display of the operating room 80. For example, in some embodiments, the surgical instrument 10 may be equipped with an LED indicator. The LED indicator can be activated when the status signal indicates that the cloth fixed in the terminal clamp 12 has a thickness that is within the optimal range for a cassette with brackets 34. As another example, the video display of the operating 80 can be configured to display a graphic representation a status signal, for example, an indicator display, when the measured tissue thickness is within the optimum range. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable feedback device can be used to signal the status of a surgeon. In some embodiments, the implementation of the surgical instrument 2 may contain a screen window. The screen window can be configured to display a representation of a state signal or a signal of tissue thickness for a surgeon. The screen window can be used to display the measured tissue thickness and the optimal range of tissue thickness for a cassette with brackets 34.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the module perception of the thickness of the fabric 102 can be performed with the possibility of installing a power key. The power switch may be configured to control the operation of the thickness perception module 102 before inserting the cartridge with brackets 34 into the channel for the staples 22. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness perception module 102 may contain a power source 110. The power source 110 may be connected to controller 106. The controller 106 can determine the presence of a power switch and can maintain the power source 110 and the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric 102 in a state of reduced power consumption to save the available energy from Power supply 110.

In FIG. 12 shows one embodiment of a fabric thickness sensing module 302 configured to install a power switch 320. The power switch 320 may include a magnet 378 configured to maintain a fabric thickness sensor 104 in a saturated state when the power switch 320 is located next to the fabric thickness sensing module 302 and / or connected to it. The controller 106 may determine the saturation state of the sensor of the thickness of the fabric 104 and may maintain the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric 302 in a state of low power consumption, while the sensor of the thickness of the fabric 104 is in a state of saturation. Low power mode may suggest a mode in which the various components of the tissue thickness perception module 302 do not receive power or in which various operations of the tissue thickness perception module 302 are not performed. For example, in the low power state, the controller 106, the radio module 108 and or fabric thickness sensor 104. When the power switch 320 shuts down or retracts away from the fabric thickness perception module 302, the fabric thickness sensor 104 may become unsaturated. e. When the controller 106 detects an unsaturated state, it can turn the tissue thickness perception module 302 into an active state for working with a surgical instrument 10. The active state may assume a state in which all modules and functions of the tissue thickness perception sensor 302 are powered and ready to go.

In some embodiments, the device may comprise a reed switch, a power source, and a controller in communication with the power source. The controller can be configured to determine the status of the reed switch. The magnet can be detachably located next to the device. The magnet can be configured to create a magnetic field sufficient to maintain the reed switch in the saturation state. The controller can determine the saturation state and keep the device in the low-power state while the reed switch is in the saturation state. When the magnet is retracted from the device, the reed switch can go into an unsaturated state. The controller can determine the unsaturated state of the reed switch and transfer the device from the low power state to the active power state.

In FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of the Hall sensor 402. The Hall sensor 402 includes a Hall element 404, an amplifier 406 and a power supply 408. The Hall element comprises a first input terminal 410 and a second input terminal 412. The first and second input terminals 410, 412 are configured to receive a constant input current from the power source 408. In the absence of a magnetic field, the input current flows to the first input terminal 410 and leaves the second input terminal 412 without loss of potential on both sides of the Hall element 404. When exposed to the element Oll 404 of the magnetic field created, for example, by a magnet 478, the potential is formed on the sides of the Hall element 404 due to the deflection of electrons flowing through the Hall element 404. The first output terminal 414 and the second output terminal 416 are located on opposite sides of the Hall element 404. terminals 414, 416 provide a potential applied by a magnetic field to amplifier 406. Amplifier 406 increases the potential acting on Hall element 404 and outputs the amplified voltage to output terminal 418. Amp output The body 406 cannot exceed the limits set by the power source 408. The upper limit of the amplifier 406 is the saturation point for the Hall sensor 402. The saturation point can be selected based on the power source 408 connected to the amplifier 406. Since the saturation occurs on the amplifier 406, and not on the Hall element 404, the effect of a strong magnetic field does not damage the Hall sensor 402, but instead puts it in a state of saturation. In some embodiments, an open emitter, an open collector, or a push-pull transistor may be added to the output of amplifier 406.

In FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a fabric thickness sensing module 502 configured to install a power switch 520. The fabric thickness sensing module 502 may comprise a first terminal 516 and a second terminal 518 configured to connect the power switch 520. The first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 may have a connection with the controller 106. The power switch 520 can be configured to create a first state of the electrical circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. The first state of the electrical circuit is There may be any appropriate state between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518, for example, an open circuit, a closed circuit, resistivity, capacitance, inductance, or any other suitable state of the circuit. In some embodiments, the controller 106 may detect the first state of the electrical circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 and maintain the tissue thickness perception module 502 in a low-power state. In some embodiments, the first state of the electrical circuit may block the power supply from the power source 110 to the components of the tissue thickness sensing module 502, for example using an open circuit, and block the operation of the controller 106, radio module 108 or other electrical components while the power switch 520 is installed.

In some embodiments, when the power switch 520 is disconnected from the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518, a second state of the electrical circuit may be created between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. The first state of the electrical circuit may be any corresponding state of the circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 for example, open circuit or closed circuit. The controller 106 can detect the second state of the electrical circuit and can translate the tissue thickness perception module 502 into an active power state for operating the surgical instrument 10.

For example, in some embodiments, the power switch 520 may be configured to create a closed circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. The controller 106 may detect a circuit closure between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. The controller 106 may support the fabric thickness perception module 502 in the low-power state to conserve battery power of the power supply 110, while there is a closed circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. Before installing the cartridge with brackets 34 into the bracket channel 22, the power switch 520 can be disconnected from the fabric thickness perception module 502. When the power switch 520 is disconnected from the fabric thickness perception module 502, the circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 can be opened. The controller 106 can detect an open circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 and can translate the tissue thickness perception module 502 into an active state.

As another example, in some embodiments, the power switch 520 may be configured to maintain an open circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. The power supply 110 may be disconnected from the controller 106 and the radio module 108 when the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 are in open circuit state. A cartridge with staples 34 can be inserted into the channel for brackets 22. If the power switch 520 is installed, the surgeon can disconnect it from the tissue thickness perception module 502. When the power switch 520 is disconnected, the circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 can be performed using a direct connections between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518, or via an indirect connection, for example via a staple cartridge 34, a channel for staples 22, or any other suitable part of the terminal clamp 12. For example, the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 may It is closed circuit when the cartridge with brackets 34 is installed in the channel for brackets 22 and the power switch 520 is disconnected from the fabric thickness perception module 502. The closed circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 can connect the power supply 110 to the controller 106 and the radio module 108 , as a result, the tissue thickness perception module 502 becomes active for use with a surgical instrument 10.

In FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the method for maintaining the thickness perception module of the fabric 102 in a low-power state. As shown in FIG. 15, at step 602, the controller 106 may detect the power key 320, 520 of the cassette with brackets, removable located next to the tissue thickness perception module 102. The controller 106 may detect the presence of the power key of the cassette with brackets, for example, key 320, 520 using any suitable method , for example by determining the state of the circuit or sensor. At step 604, the controller 106 maintains the tissue thickness perception module 102 in a low-power state while the power switch is located adjacent to or secured to the fabric thickness perception module 102. At step 606, the power key of the cassette with brackets is disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module 102. The controller 106 determines that the power switch of the cassette with brackets is turned off and translates the fabric thickness perception module 102 from the low power state to the active state at step 608.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric 302 may include a sensor thickness of the fabric 104, made with the possibility of detecting a magnetic field, for example, a Hall sensor. The power key 320 of the cassette with brackets may be located next to the tissue thickness perception module 302 and may comprise a magnet 378 configured to set the fabric thickness sensor 104 to the saturation state. In some embodiments, at step 604, the controller 106 in the tissue thickness perception module 302 can detect the saturation state of the fabric thickness sensor 104. The controller 106 can maintain the fabric thickness perception module 302 in a reduced power state while the fabric thickness sensor 104 is in the saturation state. The power switch 320 of the cartridge with brackets may be disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module 302. The fabric thickness sensor 104 may change from a saturation state to an unsaturated state. The controller 106 can detect the unsaturated state of the thickness sensor of the fabric 104 and can translate the thickness of the fabric thickness perception module 302 from the low power state to the active state.

In some embodiments, the fabric thickness perception module 502 may comprise a first terminal 516 and a second terminal 518 located on the body of the fabric thickness perception module 502. The first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 may be configured to connect the power switch 520. The power switch 520 may generate the first state of the electrical circuit between the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518. For example, the first state of the electrical circuit may be an open circuit or a closed circuit. At step 604, the controller 106 may be configured to determine the presence of the power switch 520 based on the first state of the electrical circuit. The controller 106 may maintain the tissue thickness sensing module 502 in a low power state while the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 are in the first state of the electrical circuit. The power switch 520 may be disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module 502 to allow installation of the cassette with brackets 34 into the channel for brackets 22. In some embodiments, the first terminal 516 and the second terminal 518 may go to the second state of the electrical circuit For example, in the closed circuit or open circuit state. The controller 106 can determine the second state of the electrical circuit and translate the fabric thickness perception module 502 from the low power state to the active state.

Although the various embodiments of the tissue thickness perception module described herein comprise a wireless transmitter and a power source, other embodiments are contemplated. For example, in one embodiment, at least one conductor, for example, a wire may pass through the core of a surgical instrument and provide signaling and / or power from the handle to the tissue thickness perception module. In some embodiments, a controller, power supply, or other components may be located in the handle and may be connected to a tissue thickness sensing module via a wired connection.

Although the various embodiments of the tissue thickness perception module described herein are distal with respect to the cartridge with brackets, various other embodiments are provided in which the tissue thickness perception module can be positioned longitudinally, proximally and / or distally with respect to the cartridge brackets. In some embodiments, a plurality of tissue thickness sensing modules may be used. In such embodiments, the microcontroller may be configured to process a plurality of tissue thickness signals from a plurality of tissue thickness perception modules to calculate the tissue thickness.

The various embodiments described herein are described in the context of brackets that are removably stored inside the staple cartridges for use with surgical stapling instruments. In some circumstances, brackets may include wires that deform when in contact with the abutment of a surgical stapling instrument. Such wires may be formed from a metal, such as, for example, stainless steel, and / or from any other suitable material. Such embodiments and the ideas presented herein may be applicable to embodiments that include fasteners that are removably stored in cassettes with fasteners for use with any suitable suturing surgical instrument.

The various embodiments described herein are described in the context of linear terminal clamps and / or cartridges with linear fasteners. Such embodiments and the ideas presented therein may be applicable to non-linear end clips and / or cartridges with non-linear fasteners, such as for example circular end clips and / or end clips of a certain shape. For example, various terminal clamps, including non-linear terminal clamps, are disclosed in US Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 036,647, filed February 28, 2011, entitled "SURGICAL BLEACHING TOOL", currently - US Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0226837, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In addition, US Patent Application Ser. No. 12 / 893,461, filed Sept. 29, 2012, entitled "CARTRIDGE WITH SCRATCHES", is currently the publication of US Patent Application No. 2012/0074198, which is fully incorporated into this document by reference. US Patent Application Ser. No. 12 / 031,873, filed February 15, 2008, entitled "END CLAMPS FOR SURGICAL CUTTING AND STITCHING TOOLS", is now US Patent No. 7,980,443, also fully incorporated into this document by reference. US Patent No. 8,393,514, entitled “ELECTORALLY ORIENTED IMPLANE CASSETTE WITH FASTENING ELEMENTS”, issued on March 12, 2013, is also fully incorporated into this document by reference.

EXAMPLES

A surgical end effector for treating tissue is described in various embodiments. The surgical end effector contains a staple cartridge. The cartridge with brackets contains a proximal end and a distal end. The cartridge with brackets is made with the possibility of stitching tissue with staples in the optimal range of tissue thickness. The thrust element is movably connected relative to the proximal end of the cartridge with brackets. The tissue thickness perception module is located near the distal end of the staple cartridge. The tissue thickness perception module contains a sensor and a controller. The sensor is configured to generate a signal that determines the thickness of the fabric located between the abutment plate and the bracket with brackets. The controller has a connection to the sensor. The controller contains an identifying device for determining the type of cassette with brackets. A cassette type signal with brackets and a tissue thickness signal are used to determine if the thickness of the fabric matches the optimal range.

In some embodiments, the stop member comprises a magnet. The sensor can be configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnet. The Hall sensor can be used as a sensor. In some embodiments, a tissue thickness perception module comprises a transmitter in communication with a controller. The transmitter can be configured to transmit a signal like a cassette with brackets and a signal of tissue thickness to the receiver. A cassette type signal with brackets and a tissue thickness signal can be obtained by the receiver in a surgical instrument. The receiver determines the compliance of the measured tissue thickness to the optimum range.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the controller can be configured to generate a signal that determines the compliance of the measured tissue thickness to the optimal range. The transmitter may be configured to transmit a signal. In some embodiments, the implementation of the module thickness tissue perception may contain at least one power source, configured to provide the controller with power.

In some embodiments, the identification device may comprise a memory device connected to the controller. The memory device may be configured to store data about the types of cartridges with brackets. In some embodiments, the identification device may comprise a first plurality of terminals located on the tissue thickness perception module and a second plurality of terminals located at the distal end of the cartridge with brackets. The subgroup of the first terminal set is connected to the second terminal set. The type of cartridge with brackets is determined by the subgroup of the first set of terminals that are associated with the second set of terminals. In some embodiments, the implementation of the module perception of the thickness of the fabric can be made with the possibility of installing a power key. The tissue thickness perception module may comprise a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal and the second terminal can be configured to connect the power switch, configured to maintain the tissue thickness perception module in the low power state.

A staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapler is described in various embodiments. The staple cartridge has a body with staples containing a proximal end and a distal end. Many brackets are removable stored in brackets. The set of brackets is made with the possibility of stitching tissue with staples in the optimal range of tissue thickness. The tissue thickness perception module is located near the distal end of the channel for the staples. The tissue thickness perception module contains a sensor and a controller. The sensor is configured to generate a signal that determines the thickness of the fabric located between the anvil plate and the bracket with brackets. The controller has a connection to the sensor. The controller contains an identifying device for determining the type of cassette with brackets. A cassette type signal with brackets and a tissue thickness signal are used to determine if the thickness of the fabric matches the optimal range.

In some embodiments, a tissue thickness perception module comprises a transmitter in communication with a controller and at least one power source configured to provide power to the controller and transmitter. The transmitter can be configured to transmit a signal like a cassette with brackets and a signal of tissue thickness. A cassette type signal with brackets and a tissue thickness signal can be obtained by the receiver in a surgical instrument. The receiver determines the conformity of the thickness of the fabric to the optimum range. In some embodiments, the implementation of the controller is configured to generate a signal that determines the conformity of the thickness of the fabric to the optimal range. The transmitter may be configured to transmit a signal.

In some embodiments, the identification device may comprise a memory device in communication with the controller. The memory device is configured to store data about the types of cartridges with brackets. In some embodiments, the identification device may comprise a first plurality of terminals located on a tissue thickness perception module, and a second plurality of terminals located at the distal end of the cartridge with brackets. A subgroup of the first plurality of terminals may be associated with a second plurality of terminals. The type of cartridge with brackets is determined by the subgroup of the first set of terminals that are associated with the second set of terminals.

In some embodiments, a Hall effect sensor may be used as a sensor. In some embodiments, the implementation of the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric can be made with the possibility of installing a removable power key. Power key can be made with the ability to maintain the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric in a state of low power consumption. Removable power key may contain a magnet, configured to maintain the sensor in a state of saturation. A low power state can be maintained while the sensor is in saturation state.

A tissue thickness perception module designed to be connected to a surgical staple cartridge configured to crosslink the fabric described in various embodiments. The tissue thickness perception module contains a sensor and a controller. The sensor is designed to detect the magnetic field, which characterizes the thickness of the fabric, fixed in front of the cartridge with brackets. The controller has a connection to the sensor. The controller contains an identifying device for determining the type of cassette with brackets. The cartridge type and tissue thickness are used to determine whether the tissue thickness matches the optimal range for a surgical cartridge with brackets. The transmitter is connected to the controller. At least one power source is adapted to supply power to the controller and transmitter.

A staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapler is described in various embodiments. The staple cartridge has a body with staples containing a proximal end and a distal end. The tissue thickness perception module is connected to the distal end of the body with brackets. The tissue thickness perception module contains a controller and a sensor. Power key is removable relative to the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric. The controller is configured to detect the power key. When the controller detects a power switch, the controller maintains the tissue thickness perception module in the low-power state. When the power switch is turned off, the controller puts the tissue thickness sensing module into a state of active power.

In some embodiments, a Hall sensor is used as a sensor, and the power key contains a magnet. The magnet is designed to maintain the Hall sensor in a state of saturation, when the power key is located relative to the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric. The controller determines the saturation state of the Hall sensor and maintains a low-power state while the Hall sensor is in the saturation state. When the power switch is disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module, the Hall sensor goes into an unsaturated state. The controller detects the unsaturated state of the Hall sensor and converts the tissue thickness perception module to the active state.

 In some embodiments, the implementation of the cartridge with brackets contains the first terminal and the second terminal. The power switch creates the first state of the electrical circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal. The controller detects the first state of the electrical circuit and maintains the tissue thickness sensing module in the low-power state while the first terminal and the second terminal are in the first state of the electrical circuit. When the power switch is disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module, the first terminal and the second terminal go to the second state of the electrical circuit. The controller detects the second state of the electrical circuit and converts the tissue thickness perception module to the active state.

In some embodiments, the first state of the electrical circuit is a closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal, and the second state of the electrical circuit is an open circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal. In some embodiments, the first state of the electrical circuit is an open circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal, and the second state of the electrical circuit is a closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal. A closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal can be established using the connection between the staple cartridge and the surgical stapler when the staple cartridge is inserted into it.

A device comprising a Hall sensor, a power source and a controller is described in various embodiments. The controller is configured to receive power from the power source. The controller is configured to maintain the device in the low-power state when the reed switch is in the saturation state. The controller is designed with the ability to transfer the device to the active state when the Hall sensor is in an unsaturated state.

The method of power management of a cartridge unit with brackets equipped with a tissue thickness perception module is described in various embodiments. The method involves the detection, with the help of a controller, of a power switch, which is removably located next to the tissue thickness perception module. An additional method involves maintaining, with the help of a controller, a tissue thickness perception module in a low-power state when a power switch is detected. The controller enters an active state when the power switch is disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module.

In some embodiments, detection of the power switch may include determining, by means of a controller, the state of the sensor. The state of the sensor indicates the presence of a power switch installed relative to the specified module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric. The Hall sensor can be used as a sensor. The sensor state may be a saturation state. In some embodiments, detection of the power switch may include determining, by means of a controller, the first state of the electrical circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal. The first state of the electric circuit shows the presence of a power switch installed relative to the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric. The controller may be configured to determine the second state of the electrical circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal. The second state of the electric circuit shows the absence of a power switch installed relative to the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric.

In some embodiments, the first state of the electrical circuit may be a closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal, and the second state of the electrical circuit may be an open circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal. In some embodiments, the first state of the electrical circuit may be an open circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal, and the second state of the electrical circuit may be a closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the method may additionally include the installation of the cartridge with brackets in the surgical stapling instrument. The power key can be disconnected from the tissue thickness perception module. A surgical stapler may perform a circuit connection between the first terminal and the second terminal.

A method for controlling a device comprising a controller, a power source and a reed switch is described in various embodiments. The method includes determining, by means of a controller, the saturation state of a reed switch. The reed switch is maintained in the saturation state with a power key located relative to the reed switch. The power key contains a magnet, configured to create a magnetic field, setting the reed switch to the saturation state. The method additionally includes maintaining, with the help of the controller, the device in the locked state while the reed switch is in the saturation state. The locked state of the device is the low power state. The method additionally includes the transfer, by means of the controller, of the device to the unlocked state, and this transfer occurs when the power switch is disconnected from the reed switch and the latter switches to the unsaturated state. The unlocked state of the device is the active state.

This document describes various embodiments of surgical instruments and robotic surgical systems. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various embodiments described herein can be used with the described surgical instruments and robotic surgical systems. The descriptions are provided by way of example only, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the described embodiments are not limited to the devices described herein, and can be used with any suitable surgical instrument or robotic surgical system.

In the present description, reference to “various embodiments”, “certain embodiments”, “one embodiment” or “embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one. An example of an embodiment. Thus, the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one example embodiment,” or “in embodiment” used in the present description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, certain properties, design features or characteristics presented in the accompanying illustrations or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention may be combined, partially or fully, with the properties, structural elements or characteristics of one or more other embodiments of the present invention. restrictions.

Although various embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated with various embodiments, and these embodiments have been described in sufficient detail, the applicant has no intention to shorten or otherwise limit the scope of the appended claims. Additional advantages and modifications may be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, each of the described embodiments can be used in the procedures of endoscopy, laparoscopy, as well as open surgical procedures, without being limited to its intended use.

It should be understood that at least some of the drawings and descriptions herein have been simplified to depict elements that are important for a clear understanding of the invention, while other elements have been removed for clarity. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these and other elements may be desirable.

Although some modifications of the invention have been described, however, it should be obvious that various modifications, changes and adaptations of these embodiments can be carried out by those skilled in the art with some or all of the advantages of the gist of the present invention. For example, in accordance with various embodiments, one component may be replaced with a plurality of components, and a plurality of components may be replaced with a single component to perform a given function or functions. Therefore, this application is intended to cover all such modifications, changes and adaptations without departing from the essence and scope of the described invention, which is defined in the claims.

Any patent, publication or other description material that is fully or partially incorporated into this document by reference is an integral part of this document to the extent that they do not contradict the existing definitions, statements, or other description materials presented in this description. Thus, the description, expressly presented in this document, to the extent that it is necessary, prevails over any information contrary to the material included in this document by reference. Any material, or part thereof, indicated as incorporated herein by reference, but contrary to existing definitions, provisions, or other description material provided herein, will be included in this document only to the extent that between the material included and the existing material Descriptions do not cause contradictions.

Claims (47)

1. Surgical end effector for processing tissue, and surgical end effector contains: a bracket with brackets, including a proximal end and a distal end, with the bracket with brackets made with the possibility of stapling tissue within the optimal range of tissue thickness; emphasis, movably connected relative to the proximal end of the cassette with brackets; the module of perception of the thickness of the fabric, located adjacent to the distal end of the cassette with brackets; power switch, made with the ability to connect to the module perception of the thickness of the fabric; moreover, the tissue thickness perception module contains: a casing to protect the elements of the tissue thickness perception module; a sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue located between the abutment and the bracket with brackets; and the controller in connection with the signals from the sensor, the controller contains identifying means for determining the type of cassette with brackets, the controller is configured to use a signal such as a cassette with brackets and a signal of fabric thickness to determine if the fabric thickness is in the optimal range of fabric thickness and generate a state signal showing compliance of the measured tissue thickness to the optimum range for a cartridge with brackets, and the controller is configured to maintain the tissue thickness perception module in the low-power state while the power switch is connected to the tissue thickness perception module, and the controller is configured to convert the tissue thickness perception module from the low-power state to the active state when the power key is disconnected from the sensing module fabric thickness. 2. Effector under item 1, in which the stop element contains a magnet, and the sensor is configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnet. 3. The effector of claim 2, wherein the sensor comprises a Hall sensor. 4. The effector according to claim 1, wherein the tissue thickness perception module comprises a transmitter in communication with signals from a controller. 5. Effector under item 4, in which the controller is configured to generate a signal indicating the finding of tissue thickness in the optimal range of tissue thickness, and moreover, the transmitter is configured to transmit the signal. 6. Effector under item 1, in which the module perception of the thickness of the tissue contains at least one power source, configured to supply power to the controller. 7. Effector under item 1, in which the identifying means includes a memory block associated with the controller, and the memory block is configured to store data about the type of cartridge with brackets. 8. Effector under item 1, in which the identifying means includes: first terminals located on the tissue thickness perception module; the second terminals located at the distal end of the cassette with brackets, the subgroup of the first terminals being adapted to communicate on signals with the second terminals, and wherein the subgroup of the first terminals configured to communicate on the signals with the second terminals is configured to determine the type of cassette with brackets. 9. Effector under item 1, in which the module perception of the thickness of the tissue contains: first terminal; and a second terminal, the first terminal and the second terminal being configured to receive the power switch. 10. A cassette with brackets for use in a surgical suturing instrument for treating tissue, the brackets cassette containing: case with brackets, including proximal end and distal end; brackets made with the possibility of storage with the release inside the case with brackets, and brackets made with the possibility of using for stitching tissue in the optimal range of the thickness of the fabric. the module of perception of the thickness of the fabric, located adjacent to the distal end of the body with brackets; power switch, made with the ability to connect to the module perception of the thickness of the fabric; moreover, the tissue thickness perception module contains: a casing to protect the elements of the tissue thickness perception module; a sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue located adjacent to the body with the brackets; and the controller, in connection with the signals from the sensor, the controller contains identifying means for determining the type of cassette with brackets, and the controller is configured to use a signal such as a cassette with brackets and a signal of fabric thickness to determine if the fabric thickness is in the optimal range of fabric thickness and generate a state signal showing that the measured tissue thickness matches the optimum range for a cartridge with brackets, and the controller is configured to maintain the tissue thickness perception module in the low-power state while the power switch is connected to the tissue thickness perception module, and the controller is configured to convert the tissue thickness perception module from the low-power state to the active state when the power key is disconnected from the sensing module fabric thickness. 11. The cassette according to claim 10, in which the module of the perception of the thickness of the fabric contains: transmitter in connection with the signals from the controller; and at least one power source configured to provide power to the controller and transmitter. 12. The cassette according to claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to generate a signal indicative of finding the thickness of the fabric in the optimal range of the thickness of the fabric, and wherein the transmitter is adapted to transmit the signal. 13. The cassette according to claim 10, in which the identifying means comprises a memory unit in connection with signals from the controller, and wherein the memory unit is adapted to store data about the type of cassette with brackets. 14. The cassette according to claim 10, in which the identifying means comprises: first terminals located on the tissue thickness perception module; second terminals located at the distal end of the housing with brackets, the subgroup of the first terminals being configured to communicate on signals with the second terminals, and wherein the subgroup of the first terminals configured to communicate on the signals with the second terminals is configured to determine the type of the cassette with brackets. 15. The cassette according to claim 10, in which the sensor contains a Hall sensor. 16. A tissue thickness perception module for attaching to a surgical cassette with brackets configured to process tissue, the tissue thickness perception module being configured to install a power key, the tissue thickness perception module comprising: a casing to protect the elements of the tissue thickness perception module; a sensor capable of detecting a magnetic field and generating a signal indicating the thickness of the tissue located adjacent to the surgical cassette with brackets; the controller in connection with the signals from the sensor, the controller contains identifying means for determining the type of cartridge with brackets, and the controller is configured to use a signal like a cassette with brackets and a signal of tissue thickness to determine if the thickness of the tissue is in the optimal range of tissue thickness for a surgical cassette with brackets and generating a state signal indicating that the measured thickness of the fabric corresponds to the optimum range for a cartridge with brackets, the controller being designed with zhnosti maintain perception module tissue thickness in a low power state until the power switch is connected to the module perception tissue thickness, and wherein the controller is configured to transfer module tissue thickness perception of low-power state to an active state when disconnected from a power key module perception tissue thickness; transmitter in connection with the signals from the controller; and at least one power source configured to provide power to the controller and transmitter.

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