ES2638401T3 - Chip unit for reusable surgical instruments - Google Patents

Abstract

A surgical instrument system that includes a first component and a second component, the first component being a recharge unit (16) and the second component being an adapter unit (14), including the surgical instrument system: (i) less a chip unit (100) having a housing unit (102) on the first component, the housing unit (102) containing a chip (135), the chip (135) having data to prevent the use of components not authorized; and (ii) a plug unit (104) on the second component; characterized in that the housing unit includes; (i) a base member (110) defining a cavity (111) and including a first open end (110a) and a second closed end (110b), in which the base member further defines a groove (111a) in communication with the cavity, (ii) a seal member (120); and (iii) a circuit board unit (130) includes the chip, in which the circuit board unit is received inside the slot; in which the first open end of the base member forms an extension (112) configured to engage the seal member, and the seal member forms a tight seal around the extension of the base member; in which in which the housing unit is positioned inside the recharging unit and the plug unit is positioned inside the adapter unit such that when the recharging unit is secured to the adapter unit, the housing unit is coupled to the plug unit; and in which the seal member (120) is configured to form a seal between the housing unit (102) and the plug unit (104) when the plug unit (104) is coupled to the housing unit (102) ).

Description

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DESCRIPTION

Chip unit for reusable surgical instruments

Background

Technique Field

The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments that have a reusable handle and a disposable end executor. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a chip unit for use in a stapling instrument having a disposable loading unit.

Background of the related technique

Surgical instruments powered by electric energy are known for use in endoscopic procedures. Typically, the instruments as such include a reusable handle unit and a disposable end executor. An adapter unit connects the end executor to the handle unit. In the case of a surgical stapler, the end executor includes a disposable cartridge or a refill unit that is changed after each operation of the surgical stapler. To reduce costs and reduce process times, the handle units are generally configured for use with a variety of refill units of various configurations for use on fabrics having different properties, ie thickness, density. For example, the different recharging units may have staples of different sizes and / or the staples may be arranged in different configurations. To ensure that the handle unit is programmed to operate with the recharging unit attached, some recharging units are provided with a chip that communicates to the handle unit the configuration of the recharging unit. As such, the configuration of the recharge unit is automatically transmitted to the handle unit during the coupling of the recharge unit to the adapter unit, thereby eliminating any user error that may be experienced during manual programming of the unit. handle when switching between recharging units with different configurations.

Surgical staplers are generally used to staple tissue inside a body cavity in those places where the end performer is likely to come into contact with fluids, for example, blood, bile, irrigation solutions. If any fluids made contact with the chip or with the connections between the chip and the handle unit, the chip is shorted, causing the surgical stapler to become inoperative.

Therefore, it will be beneficial to have a chip unit configured to limit exposure to chip fluids and the connections between the chip and the handle unit during the stapling procedure.

US 2013131650 A1 discloses a surgical instrument system according to the preamble of claim 1.

Summary

The present invention is defined by the attached claim 1. Specific claims are set forth in the dependent claims.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical instrument system is disclosed. The surgical instrument system includes a first component and a second component, the first component being a recharge unit and the second component being selected from a group consisting of a handle unit and an adapter unit, including the surgical instrument system. less a chip unit having a housing unit on the first component, the housing unit containing a chip, and a plug unit on the second component, the chip having data to prevent the use of unauthorized components.

The recharge unit, in certain embodiments, is a circular stapling recharge unit. The refill unit may include a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge may have a plurality of surgical staples arranged in rows.

In certain embodiments, the rows are circular rows. In other embodiments, the rows are linear rows.

In the surgical instrument system, the second component may be a handle unit. The handle unit, in certain examples, includes at least one motor. The handle unit may include a controller to interact and communicate with the chip of the chip unit.

In certain examples, the surgical instrument system also includes a third component, the third component being an adapter unit.

In certain examples, the chip communicates with the controller to prevent the use of the recharge unit if the recharge unit has been previously used.

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The recharge unit can be chosen from the group consisting of a surgical staple recharge unit, a clip applicator recharge unit, an electrosurgical recharge unit, a diagnostic recharge unit.

Brief description of the drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into, and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and, together with a general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a surgical stapling device for use with a chip unit according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end of an adapter unit and a recharge unit of the surgical stapling device shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the indicated area shown in Figure 2;

Figure 4 is another cross-sectional view of the refill unit shown in Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a chip unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the chip unit shown in Figure 5 with a separate housing unit and plug unit;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the exploded view of the housing unit shown in Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cross-section of the housing unit shown in Figure 6;

Figure 9 is a side view of a cross-section of the housing unit and the plug unit shown in Figure 6;

Figure 10 is an exploded view of the plug unit shown in Figure 6;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the cross-section of the plug unit shown in Figure 6;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a chip unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the chip unit shown in Figure 12 with the housing unit and the

separate plug unit;

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the chip unit shown in Figure 12;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a circuit board unit of the housing unit shown in Figure 14; Y

Figure 16 is a perspective view of the exploded view of the chip unit shown in Figure 12. Detailed description

Embodiments of the chip unit disclosed at this time will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which equal reference numbers designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the different views. As is common in the art, the term "proximal" refers to that part or component closest to the user or operator, that is, surgeon or medical doctor, while the term "distal" refers to that part or component farther away. of the user.

Initially with reference to Figure 1, a surgical stapling instrument is shown that includes a chip unit according to the present disclosure, generally as a circular stapler 10. The circular stapler 10 includes a handle unit 12, an adapter unit 14 removably attached to, and extending distally from, the handle unit 12, and a refill unit 16 selectively secured to a distal end 14b of an adapter portion 14. A detailed description of the handle unit is provided 12 and the adapter unit 14 in the US Patent Application Publication of common property N ° 2012/0089131, the content of which is incorporated in this document as a reference in its entirety. The recharging unit 16 includes a frame member 18 and a pusher member 20 slidably disposed inside the frame member 18. A proximal end of the frame member 18 is selectively secured to the distal end 14b of the adapter unit 14 through a groove and tab configuration. A proximal end of the pusher member 20 is selectively secured to a distal end of a drive member (not shown) in a similar manner. In one embodiment, the recharging unit 16 is selectively secured to the distal end 14b of the adapter unit 14 in the manner described in Chinese Patent Application No. 201310084378.

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In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, the recharging unit may be a removable and replaceable component. In addition, the stapler may have an elongated shaft that is connected to the handle unit, rather than a removable and replaceable adapter unit. In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, the chip unit can be used in conjunction with other types of recharges, such as electrosurgical recharges, linear endoscopic staplers, transverse staplers, clip applicators, open staplers, etc. The adapter units provide the correct number of axes and type of transmission for interaction with the particular recharge. It is contemplated that a system of adapter units and recharging units be developed for use with manual and / or electric handle units.

The refill unit includes an anvil unit and a cartridge unit, with a series of surgical clips that are arranged in the cartridge unit. The refill unit also includes a bar for coupling to the anvil unit, such that the anvil unit is movable to and from the cartridge unit with the movement of the bar. The tissue is disposed between the anvil unit and the cartridge unit and then the anvil unit approaches the cartridge unit to capture the tissue between them. The pusher member 20 of the refill unit 16 drives the staples from the cartridge unit and then drives a circular blade through the tissue to complete an anastomosis. Separate pusher members can be provided for the staples and the blade, or the pusher member 20 can be selectively coupled to the blade after actuation of the clip, by use of a snap ring, a lock or other structure. For example, the pusher device disclosed in US application No. 13 / 739,246 filed on January 11 may be used.

It is desirable that the lumen of the recharging unit 16 be relatively large, such that the inner lumen of the resulting anastomosis is relatively large and tends to reduce complications. For example, the structure of the outer shell of the cartridge unit may include ribs or thin wall portions such as those disclosed in US application No. 13 / 397,039, filed on February 15, 2012.

After the tissue is cut by the blade, the anvil unit is moved outwardly from the cartridge unit and the anvil unit is removed from the tissue. To facilitate removal as such, the anvil unit may have a tilting mechanism that tilts the anvil, making it easier to remove tubular tissue portions. In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, the reloading unit may have a tilt mechanism such as, for example, the tilt mechanism disclosed in US Publication No. 2012/0211544 A1.

In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, the cartridge unit may have a removable and replaceable staple cartridge, whether or not the refill unit is removable and replaceable. The staples are arranged in circular or annular rows and may include staples of different sizes. For example, in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the clips include an inner row of clips and an outer row of clips, the clips in the inner row having a smaller size than the clips in the outer row. The cartridge may include a contact face with the stepped fabric such that when it approaches the anvil unit, the distance between them is less in the inner row of staples than in the outer row of staples.

The handle unit shown in Figure 1 desirably has an energy source and at least one motor, such as, for example, the handle unit disclosed in US application No. 13 / 444,228, filed 11 April 2012

The handle unit has at least one motor to rotate one or more shafts to drive various components of the refill unit. For example, the handle unit may have two rotating drive shafts and a rechargeable bat. Alternatively, the energy source may be a separate generator or a connection to another energy source. The drive shafts are connected to the adapter unit or to another shaft and the rotation is mechanically converted to forward and backward translation of the bar and the pusher member presented above. Mechanical conversion can occur in the adapter unit or in the recharge unit.

The handle unit desirably has a controller to control the operation of the apparatus and to generate and record data. In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, the recharge unit may have a chip unit mounted therein. The chip unit stores data and interacts with the controller in the handle unit or with some other computer device, to store and generate data as described in this document. The chip unit can interact and communicate wirelessly or through appropriate wiring.

Now, with reference to Figures 2-11, the chip unit 100 includes a housing unit 102 and a plug unit 104. As seen in Figure 2, the housing unit 102 is configured to be mounted securely. inside the recharging unit 16, and the plug unit 104 is configured to be securely mounted inside the distal end 14b of the adapter unit 14. The housing unit 102 and the plug unit 104 are positioned inside the respective recharging unit 16 and adapter unit 14, such that, when the recharging unit 16 is secured to the adapter unit 14, the housing unit 102 is coupled to the plug unit 104. It is contemplated that one or both, between the housing unit 102 and the unit

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of plug 104, can be pushed by a spring, against each other, to absorb any manufacturing tolerance between the recharging unit 16 and the adapter unit 14.

With particular reference to Figures 5-8, the housing unit 102 includes a base member or housing 110, a seal member 120 and a circuit board unit 130. The base member 110 defines a cavity

111 and includes a first open end 110a and a second closed end 110b. In one embodiment, the base member 110 is monolithically formed to ensure that the cavity 111 is airtight. Alternatively, the base member 110 may be formed as two components that are joined together in a hermetic manner, that is, by welding, adhesive, etc.

Still with reference to Figures 5-8, the first end 110a of the base member 110 forms an extension

112 configured to engage seal member 120. Specifically, extension 112 is formed by a laterally recessed portion of base member 110. A shoulder 114 extends around one end of extension 112 and is configured to engage a flange 122 on the seal member 120. The reduced outer dimension of the extension 112 allows the seal member 120 to remain flush with respect to the base member 110. As can be seen with reference to Figure 5, the flush configuration of the member of seal 120 with respect to base member 110 reduces the tendency of seal member 120 to separate from base member 110 during use. The base member 110 also defines a slot 111a (see Figure 7) in communication with the cavity 111. The slot 111a is configured to selectively receive the circuit board unit 130. The extension 112 defines first and second notches. 113a, 113b in alignment with slot 111a. The first notch 113a is configured to receive a first flange 124a that extends inwardly, formed on the seal member 120. The second notch 113b is configured to receive a second flange 124b that extends inwardly, formed on the seal member 120. As will be explained in greater detail below, either one or both of the flanges 124a, 124b may be configured to retain the circuit board unit 130 inside the slot 111a of the base member 110.

Still with reference to Figures 5-8, the base member 110 includes a support member 116 (see Figure 3) extending from the second closed end 110b to the cavity 111. The support member 116 is configured to support the circuit board unit 130 when the circuit board unit 130 is received inside the slot 111a of the base member 110. The base member 110 also includes a connection member 118 to secure the housing unit 102 in the inside of the recharging unit 16 (Figure 2). As shown, the connection member 118 includes an annular shoulder 118a extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis "x" of the base member 110. The annular shoulder 118a is configured to be received around a tubular sleeve 22 (Figure 4). of the recharging unit 16. Although shown as an annular tubular projection 118a, it is contemplated that the connecting member 118 may include a C-shaped projection (not shown) for selective coupling to the recharge unit 16. In a manner Alternatively, the connection member 118 may include one or more tongues and / or one or more grooves for connecting the recharging unit 16 to the base member 110 by means of a groove and tongue configuration. The base member 110 also includes one or more alignment features 119. As shown, the alignment feature 119 forms a protrusion extending outwardly from the second closed end 110b of the base member 110. The alignment feature 119 facilitates the alignment of the base member 110 inside the recharging unit 16 and / or prevents the rotational movement of the housing unit 102 during transport, loading and use of the recharging unit 16.

Continuing with the reference to Figures 5-8, the seal member 120 includes a substantially annular body having first and second open ends 120a, 120b. The first end 120a includes a flange 122 that extends around an inner surface of the seal member 120. As explained above, the flange 122 is configured to engage the shoulder 114 formed on the extension 112 of the base member 110. Of this thus, the seal member 120 forms a tight seal around the extension 112 of the base member 110. Optionally, the seal member 120 is adhered or otherwise attached to the extension 112 to increase the integrity of the seal between the member of seal 120 and the base member 110. The second end 120b of the seal member 120 includes first and second tongues extending inward 124a, 124b. As stated above, the first tongue 124a is configured to be received inside a first notch 113a defined by the extension 112 of the base member 110 and a second tongue 124b (Figures 6 and 9) is configured to be received inside of the second notch 113b defined by the extension 112 of the base member 110 when the seal member 120 is secured to the base member 110. At least the first tongue 124a is configured to ensure that the circuit board unit 130 is maintained inside the groove 111a formed in the base member 110. A flap 126 extends from the second end 120b of the seal member 120 and is configured to form a seal between the housing unit 102 and the plug unit 104 when The plug unit 104 is coupled to the housing unit 102.

With particular reference now to Figures 7-9, the circuit board unit 130 includes a circuit board 132, a pair of contact members 134a, 134b (collectively, contact members 134) and a chip 135. The circuit board 132 defines an elongate substantially flat member configured to be received securely inside the slot 111a defined by the base member 110. The chip 135 is in electrical communication with the contact members 134. A first end 132a of the circuit board 132 supports the chip 135, and a second end 132b of the circuit board 132 supports the first and second contact members 134a, 134b. Chip 135 includes any commercially available chip capable of storing the specifications of

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the refill unit 16 is dedr, cartridge size, staple arrangement, staple length, stapling distance, and transmit the specifications to handle unit 12. In one embodiment, chip 135 includes a chip of Erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”). In this way, the driving forces and / or the driving stroke of the handle unit 12 can be adjusted to fit the coupled recharge unit 16. It is also contemplated that chip 135 may include write capabilities that allow handle unit 12 to code that the recharge unit has been used, on chip 135, to prevent reuse of a empty recharge unit, or to Any other purpose.

In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, chip 135 stores data representing information such as the type of the recharging unit, the size of the staples, the configuration of the recharging unit, the driving forces, the stroke of drive, the serial number for the particular recharging unit, the operation status (such as if the recharging unit has been operated) and other information. By communicating with the handle unit controller or other computer device, the reuse of a previously used recharging unit can be prevented. By communicating with the handle unit controller or other computer device, the operation of the recharging unit can be controlled to achieve the appropriate driving forces, the drive stroke, etc. By communicating with the handle unit controller or other computer device, unauthorized recharges can be deactivated and the handle unit can be controlled to avoid the use of unauthorized refills as such.

Still with reference to Figures 7-9, the contact members 134a, 134b each include sheet-shaped contacts having a substantially flat C-shape. The contacts are desirably flexible and elastic contacts, including the sheet-shaped contacts shown. A shoulder portion 136a, 136b of the first and second contact members 134a, 134b is secured to the second end 132b of the circuit board 132 using adhesive, welding or other method. A contact portion 138a, 138b of each of the contact members 134a, 134b extends outwardly from the shoulder portion 136a, 136b, respectively, and includes respective contact surfaces 135a, 135b. As seen in Figure 3, the contact portions 138a, 138b of the contact members 134a 134b extend outward in an amount sufficient to ensure contact between the contact portions 138a, 138b of the contact members 134a, 134b , respectively, and the plug unit 104.

Going now to Figures 9-11, the plug unit 104 includes a plug member 140, first and second wires 150a, 150b (as a group, wires 150), and first and second contact members 160a, 160b (as group, contact members 160). The plug member 140 includes a substantially rectangular base 142 defining a longitudinal axis "x" and a pair of arms 144a, 144b (as a group, arms 144) extending from the base 142 parallel to, and separated from, the axis longitudinal "x". A platform 142a extends around the arms 144 and is configured to be coupled by the flap 126 (Figure 9) of the seal member 120 when the arms 144 of the plug unit 104 are operatively received inside the cavity 111 of the housing unit 102.

As shown, the base 142 defines an opening 141 that extends perpendicularly through the plug member 140 and includes an annular boss 143 that extends perpendicularly outwardly from the plug member 140. As shown, the boss 143 is adjacent to the opening 141. Either one or both of between the opening 141 and the protuberance 143 can be used to secure the plug unit 104 to the adapter unit 14 of the circular stapler 10 (Figure 1). The first and second arms 144a, 144b are shaped and sized to be received inside the cavity 111 of the base member 110 and around the circuit board unit 130 when the circuit board unit 130 is received inside of the slots 111a defined by the base member 110.

In one embodiment, the plug member 140 is composed of plastic or other moldable material that is formed on the contact members 160 after the wires 150 have been secured to the respective first and second contact members 160a, 160b. In this way, the connection between the contact members 160 and the wires 150 of any possible contact with fluids, of the body or other, is sealed during a stapling procedure. Alternatively, the plug member 140 may include two components that are joined in a hermetic manner, for example, by welding, adhesives.

Still with reference to Figures 9-11, a first end of each of the first and second contact members 160a, 160b includes a cable connection portion 162a, 162b, respectively, to secure the first and second cables 150a, 150b to the first and second contact members 160a, 160b, respectively. As shown, the cable connection portion 162a, 162b each includes a first crimping member 161a, 161b (Figure 10) configured to be crimped around an exposed portion 152a, 152b of the respective first and second cables 150a , 150b, and a second crimping member 163a, 163b (Figure 10) configured to be crimped around the respective coated portions 154a, 154b of the first and second cables 150a, 150b, respectively. Alternatively, the cables 150a, 150b can be soldered directly or with second alloy to the respective first and second contact members 160a, 160b.

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Still with reference to Figures 9-11, a second end of each of the first and second contact members 160a, 160b includes a shoulder 164a, 164b, respectively, and a contact portion 166a, 166b, respectively. The contact portions 166a, 166b of the respective first and second contact members 160a, 160b are configured to engage respective contact portions 138a, 138b of the contact members 134a, 134b extending outwardly from the circuit board 132 of circuit board unit 130.

As indicated above, in one embodiment, the plug member 140 is formed by molding the base 142 and the arms 144 around the cable 150 and contact members 160. Specifically, after the first and second wires 150a, 150b the connection 142a of the respective first and second contact members 160a, 160b have been secured to the connection portion 162a, 160b, the base 142 of the plug member 140 is formed on the first ends of the first and second contact members 160a, 160b and the first and second arms 144a, 144b are formed around the second ends of the first and second contact members 160a, 160b, respectively. The first and second arms 144a, 144b are formed around the respective first and second contact members 160a and 160b, such that the respective contact portions 166a 166b remain exposed. The formation of the first and second arms 144a and 144b around the projections 164a, 164b of the first and second contact members 160a, 160b create grooves 145a and 145b in the respective first and second arms 144a, 144b. Alternatively, the first and second arms 144a, 144b are formed with grooves 145a, 145b, respectively, to receive projections 164a, 164b respectively. The first and second arms 144a, 144b each define a through hole 147a, 147b, respectively, which extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "x". Through holes are useful in the manufacturing process. Through holes hold or stabilize metal contacts during over-molding.

The operation of the chip unit 100 will now be described with reference to Figures 2-11. Although typically the adapter unit 14 and the recharge unit 16 are provided to a medical doctor with the plug unit 104 mounted on the adapter unit 14 and the housing unit 102 mounted on the recharge unit 16, it is contemplated that either or both from between the housing unit 102 and the plug unit 104 can be secured in the respective adapter unit 14 and recharging unit 16 by a medical doctor before use. Although not shown, it is contemplated that either or both of between the housing unit 102 and the plug unit 104 can be pushed by a spring inside the respective recharging unit 16 and adapter unit 14 to allow for tolerances of positional length between the charging unit 16 and the adapter unit 14.

As indicated above, the housing unit 102 is disposed inside the recharging unit 16 such that, when the recharging unit 16 is secured to the adapter unit 14, the housing unit 102 is coupled to the charging unit. plug 104. Specifically, when the charging unit 16 is secured to the adapter unit 14, the first and second arms 144a, 144b of the plug unit 104 are received inside the cavity 111 of the housing unit 102 so such that the contact portions 166a, 166b of the respective first and second contact members 160a, 160b are coupled to the respective contact portions 138a, 138b of the respective first and second contact members 134a, 134b of the plate unit of circuit 130. The outward extension of the contact portions 138a, 138b of the first and second contact members 134a, 134b ensures contact between the contact portions 166a, 166b of the respective cont members first and second act 160a, 160b and the contact portions 138a, 138b of the respective first and second contact members 134a, 134b. The sweeping motion provided by the spring-like action of the contact portions 138a, 138b of the respective first and second contact members 134a, 134b further ensures a positive contact between the first and second contact members 134a, 134b, respectively, of the housing unit 102 and the first and second contact members 160a, 160b, respectively. Once the housing unit 102 is connected to the plug unit 104, inside the adapter unit 14, it is contemplated that the chip 135 will automatically transmit the specifications of the recharging unit 16, or other data, to the unit of handle 12 to ensure that handle unit 12 is configured for use with recharging unit 16. The adapter unit has cables, which can be arranged in a bundle of cables, which pass through the adapter to carry electrical signals from recharging to the controller in the handle unit.

In any of the claims disclosed in this document, the chip contains data that is transmitted to a controller in the handle unit, or to a controller in any other component. The data can be transmitted automatically, or upon receipt of a request from the controller. Data transmission as such is used to ensure that: the handle unit is configured for use with the refill unit; and / or the recharging unit is configured for use with the handle unit; and / or the recharging unit has not been previously activated; and / or the recharging unit is a multi-use component but has not been operated more than a preselected number of drives; and / or the recharging unit is authorized for use with the handle unit, that is, it is not an unauthorized component. The data as such, for example, can be a unique identification code that is physically and / or cryptographically protected from being copied and / or altered. In any of the claims disclosed herein, the chip is a Dallas one wire chip from Maxim Integrated. Encryption can be a secure algorithm that produces a series of bits that must be arranged in the correct order in order to be recognized.

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As indicated above, the seal member 120 of the housing unit 102 includes a flap 126 that engages the platform 142a formed on the base 142 of the plug unit 104 to create a seal between the housing unit 102 and the plug unit 104. Since the contact portions 138a, 138b of the respective first and second contact members 134a, 134b and the contact portions 166a, 166b of the respective first and second contact members 160a, 160b are fully maintained in inside the cavity 111 formed in the base member 110 of the housing unit 102, the flap 126 of the seal member 120 prevents the exposure of the contact members 134a, 134b, 160a, 160b to any fluids found by the stapler circular 10 during a stapling procedure. Once the circular stapler 10 has been used, the recharging unit 16 can be separated from the adapter unit 14 in a traditional manner. Then, a replacement recharge unit 16 can be secured to the adapter unit 14 for later use of the circular stapler 10.

Referring now to Figures 12-16, it is generally shown as chip unit 200, an alternative embodiment of a chip unit of the present disclosure. The chip unit 200 is substantially similar to the chip unit 100 and will only be described in detail as regards the differences between the two. The chip unit 200 includes a configuration substantially similar to a "telephone style" plug and connector. In particular, the chip unit 200 includes a housing unit 202 and a plug unit 204 configured to selectively engage the housing unit 202. The housing unit 202 is configured to be securely mounted inside the storage unit. recharge 16 (Figure 1) and is configured to be securely mounted within a distal end 14b of the adapter unit 14 (Figure 1) such that when the recharge unit 16 is secured to the adapter unit 14, the unit housing 202 is attached to plug unit 204.

With particular reference to Figures 14 and 16, the housing unit 202 includes a base or housing member 210, a seal member 220 and a circuit board unit 230 (Figure 15). The base member 210 defines a cavity 211 and includes a first open end 210a and a second closed end 210b. The base member 210 can be monolithically formed by molding the base member 210 on the circuit board unit 230. In this way, the cavity 211 forms a hermetic cavity. Alternatively, the base member 210 may be formed as two components that are bonded together in an airtight manner, that is, by welding, with adhesive.

Still with reference to Figures 14 and 16, the first end 210a forms an extension 212 configured to engage the seal member 220. Specifically, the extension 212 is formed by a recessed portion of the base member 210 having a shoulder 214 which is extends around one end of extension 212 and is configured to engage a flange 222 on seal member 220. The small outer dimensions of extension 212 allow seal member 220 to remain flush with respect to base member 210 The base member 210 also defines a slot 211a in communication with the cavity 211 sized to receive a chip 235 from the circuit board unit 230.

The base member 210 also includes a connection member 218 to secure the housing unit 202 inside the recharging unit 16 (Figure 2). As shown, the connection member 218 includes an annular projection extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis "x" of the base member 210. The annular projection 218a is configured to be received around a tubular portion of the refill unit 16 Although it is shown as an annular projection, it is provided that the connecting member 218 may include a C-shaped projection (not shown) for selective coupling to the recharging unit 16. Alternatively, the connecting member 218 may include one or more tongues and / or grooves configured to secure the base member 210 in the recharge unit 16. The base member 210 also includes one or more alignment features 219. As shown, the alignment feature 219 forms a protrusion extending outward from the second closed end 210b of the base member 210. The alignment feature 219 facilitates the alignment of the base member 210 within the interior of the recharge unit 16.

The seal member 220 includes a substantially annular body having a first open end 220a and a second substantially closed end 220b. The first end 220a includes a flange 222 that extends around an inner surface of the seal member 220. As explained above, the flange 222 is configured to engage the shoulder 214 formed on the extension 212 of the base member 210. The second end 220b of the seal member 220 defines a circular opening 223 and includes an annular shoulder 224 formed around the opening 223. The shoulder 224 is configured to form a seal between the housing unit 202 and the plug extension 260 of the plug 204 when plug unit 204 is coupled to housing unit 202.

Referring now to Figures 14 and 15, the circuit board unit 230 includes a circuit board 232, first and second contact members 234a, 234b (collectively, contact members 234) and a chip 235. The board circuit 232 defines an elongate substantially flat member configured to be securely received inside the slot 211a defined by the base member 210. A first surface 232a of the circuit board 232 supports the chip 235, and a second surface 232b of circuit board 232 supports first and second contact members 234a, 234b. The contact members may be flexible and elastic members, similar to those set forth above. Chip 235 is in electrical communication with contact members 234. As indicated above, chip 235 includes any commercially available chip capable of

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Store (permanently or temporarily) the specifications of the refill unit 16 (Figure 1), that is, the size of the cartridge, staple layout, staple length, stapling distance, and transmit the specifications to the handle unit 12. It is also contemplated that chip 235 may include write capabilities that allow handle unit 12 to code that the recharge unit has been used, on chip 235, to prevent reuse of a empty recharge unit, or for any other purpose. In one embodiment, chip 235 includes an erasable programmable read-only memory chip ("EPROM").

The contact members 234a, 234b each include a shoulder portion 236a, 236b, respectively, for mounting the contact members 234a, 234b, respectively, to the circuit board 232, and a crimp portion 238a, 238b for making contact with first and second contact portions 264a, 264b of the plug unit 204. The shoulder portions 236a, 236b are secured to the circuit board 232 using adhesive, welding or other suitable method. The protrusion portions 236a, 236b are secured to the circuit board 232 such that crimped portions 238a, 238b extend parallel to each other and are configured to engage the plug member 240 of to the plug unit 204 between both. The crimped portion 238b of the contact member 234b is longer than the crimped portion 238a of the contact member 234a. As such, the crimped portion 238b extends a greater distance within the cavity 211 from the circuit board 232 than the crimped portion 238a of the contact member 234a. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the increased length of the crimped portion 238b of the contact member 234b allows the crimped portion 238b to be coupled to a different portion of the plug member 240. The crimped portion may be folded, crimped or recessed , or otherwise shaped to facilitate the connection described in this document.

Going now to Figures 13, 14 and 16, the plug unit 204 includes a plug base 240, first and second cables 250a, 250b (as a group, cables 250), and a plug extension 260 which includes members of first and second contact 260a, 260b. The plug base 240 includes a substantially rectangular member that defines a longitudinal axis "x". As shown, the plug base 240 defines an opening 241 that extends perpendicularly through the plug base 240. The opening 241 can be used to secure the plug unit 204 inside the adapter unit 14 of the stapler circular 10. The plug base 240 is composed of plastic or other moldable material that is formed on connection portions 262a, 262b of the first and second contact members 260a, 260b, respectively, after the respective cables have been secured 250a, 250b to the respective first and second contact members 260a, 260b.

Still with reference to Figures 13, 14 and 16, a first end of each of the first and second contact members 260a, 260b includes cable connection portions 262a, 262b, respectively, to secure the first and second cables 250a , 250b to the first and second contact members 260a, 260b, respectively. As shown, each cable 250a, 250b is connected to the respective cable connection portion 262a, 262 by welding, with or without alloy, or other suitable method. Alternatively, the cable connection portions 262a, 262b of the first and second contact members 260a, 260b, respectively, may include fasteners to secure the cables 250a, 250b to the first and second contact members 260a, 260b, respectively.

A second end of each of the first and second contact members 260a, 260b include a contact portion 264a, 264b, respectively. The contact portion 264a of the first contact member 260a is in the form of a solid cylindrical body defining a groove 265a. As seen in Figure 14, the slot 265 is positioned to receive a crimp portion 238a of the first contact member 234a of the housing unit 202 when the plug extension 260 is received inside the cavity 211. The portion of contact 264b of the second contact member 260b has the shape of an annular body. The contact portion 264b is configured to engage the crimped portion 238b of the second contact member 234b. The contact portions 264a, 264b are separated by an insulation member 266. As indicated above, the plug base 240 is formed around wires 250 and connection portions 262a, 262b of the first and second contact members 260a, 260b . In this way, the contact portions of the plug unit are formed on the plug extension 260 as contact portions separated from each other by the insulating member of the plug extension.

Specifically, after the wires 250a, 250b are secured to the connection portion 262a, 262b of the respective first and second contact members 260a, 260b, the plug base 240 is formed on the connection portions 262a, 262b of the first and second contact members 260a, 260b. Other manufacturing methods are also contemplated.

The chip unit 200 operates in a manner substantially similar to the chip unit 100. In particular, as indicated above, the housing unit 202 is disposed inside the recharging unit 16 (Figure 1) such that , when the charging unit 16 is secured to the adapter unit 14 (Figure 1), the plug unit 204 is coupled to the housing unit 202. Specifically, when the charging unit 16 is secured to the adapter unit 14, the Plug extension 260 of the plug unit 204 is received inside the cavity 211 of the housing unit 202, such that the contact portions 264a, 264b of the respective first and second contact members 260a, 260b are coupled to the respective crimp portions 238a, 238b

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of the respective first and second contact members 234a, 234b of the circuit board unit 230. The increased length of the crimp portion 238b of the second contact member 234b ensures that the second contact member 234b is coupled to the portion of contact 264b of the second contact member 260b. The scanning movement provided by the coupling of the crimped portions 238a, 238b of the respective first and second contact members 234a, 234b with the contact portions 264a, 264b of the respective first and second contact members 260a, 260b further ensure a positive coupling between the first and second contact members 234a, 234b, respectively, of the housing unit 202 and the first and second contact members 260a, 260b respectively.

As indicated above, the seal member 220 of the housing unit 202 includes a fin 226 that is coupled to the plug extension 260 of the plug unit 104 to effectively seal the cavity 211 of the housing unit 202. Since the crimp portions 238a, 238b of the respective first and second contact members 234a, 234b and the contact portions 264a, 264b of the respective first and second contact members 260a, 260b are completely maintained inside the cavity 211 formed in the base member 210 of the housing unit 202, the fin 226 of the seal member 220 prevents exposure of the contact members 234a, 234b, 260a, 260b to body fluids during use of the circular stapler 10 (Figure 1). In this way, the chip unit 200 is sealed against contact with any body fluids that the adapter unit 14 and the recharge unit 16 can find during a stapling process using the circular stapler 10.

In any of the claims disclosed in this document, the handle unit may have a controller, a drive mechanism and an energy source. The controller includes a memory unit and a processor to read data from the chip and / or control the operation of the instrument, and / or store data. The controller may include ROM, RAM, magnetic memory devices, optical memory devices, MEMS, magneto-optical or electronic memories, PC cards, PCMCIA devices, etc. The handle unit can also include buttons, display screens and other interfaces at the user's convenience. The handle unit may be configured and arranged as disclosed in US Published Application 2013/0098968, WO 2009/039506, and in Published Application US 2011/0121049.

The handle unit controller can communicate, in any of the claims disclosed in this document, with the other components through wires or wirelessly.

In any of the claims disclosed in this document, the adapter unit has a chip and / or a chip unit for storing operational parameters and / or life cycle information for the particular adapter unit, as disclosed in US Provisional Application. No. 61 / 756,101, filed on January 24, 2013.

The drive mechanism may include a set of gears and one or more motors, which provide an electromechanical surgical system. The source of energy may be a battery, current of the current, a source of direct current energy, a source of electronically controlled direct current energy, etc. It is also contemplated that the surgical system may be a robotic surgical system that has removable and replaceable recharge units, with the chip unit described above.

It is contemplated that a system of components may use chip units incorporated in the recharging units, adapter units and / or handle units, to provide a configurable surgical instrument in different ways that prevents the reuse of previously used components, prevents the use of unauthorized components, promotes the correct use of the components and / or stores and provides data concerning the use of the surgical instrument. A system as such may include surgical clips, clip applicators, electrosurgical devices, diagnostic devices, etc. An example of an electrosurgical device is a Ligasure ™ blood vessel sealing instrument, or bipolar and monopolar cauterization devices.

In any of the claims disclosed in this document the chip unit of the recharging unit and / or the adapter unit stores specifications for the particular component. For example, if the recharge unit is a recharge unit for surgical staples, the type of staples (linear, endoscopic, circular, etc.), the size of the staple line, the size of the staple, the lot number of manufacture, the adjustment of the race and / or the date code, can be stored in the chip. The handle unit controller can be programmed in such a way that, if the date code is exceeded, the recharge unit will not be activated, even if this is an authorized recharge unit. In another example, the handle unit controller may be programmed such that, if the lot number is a wrong lot number, the recharge unit will not be operated, even if it is an authorized recharge unit. In any of the embodiments disclosed in this document, the chip may be written by the handle unit controller or other controller. For example, the fact that the recharging unit (or other component) has been activated can be written to the chip. The handle unit will not allow the recharge unit to be activated if it has already been operated, even if it was previously an authorized recharge unit.

Although the illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various other changes and modifications may be made therein. those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims (11)

5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 40 1. A surgical instrument system that includes a first component and a second component, the first component being a recharge unit (16) and the second component being an adapter unit (14), including the surgical instrument system: (i) at least one chip unit (100) having a housing unit (102) on the first component, the housing unit (102) containing a chip (135), the chip (135) having data to prevent the use of unauthorized components; Y (ii) a plug unit (104) on the second component; characterized in that the housing unit includes; (i) a base member (110) defining a cavity (111) and including a first open end (110a) and a second closed end (110b), in which the base member further defines a groove (111a) in communication with the cavity, (ii) a seal member (120); Y (iii) a circuit board unit (130) includes the chip, in which the circuit board unit is received inside the slot; in which the first open end of the base member forms an extension (112) configured to engage the seal member, and the seal member forms a tight seal around the extension of the base member; in which the housing unit is positioned inside the recharging unit and the plug unit is positioned inside the adapter unit so that when the recharging unit is secured to the adapter unit, the housing unit is coupled to the plug unit; and in which the seal member (120) is configured to form a seal between the housing unit (102) and the plug unit (104) when the plug unit (104) is coupled to the housing unit (102) ). 2. The surgical instrument system according to claim 1, wherein the recharge unit (16) is a circular stapling recharge unit. 3. The surgical instrument system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the refill unit (16) includes a staple cartridge. 4. The surgical instrument system according to claim 3, wherein the staple cartridge has a plurality of surgical staples arranged in rows. 5. The surgical instrument system according to claim 4, wherein the rows are circular rows. 6. The surgical instrument system according to claim 4, wherein the rows are linear rows. 7. The surgical instrument system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a handle unit (12). 8. The surgical instrument system according to claim 7, wherein the handle unit (12) includes at least one motor. 9. The surgical instrument system according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the handle unit (12) includes a controller for interacting and communicating with the chip (135). 10. The surgical instrument system according to claim 9, wherein the chip (135) communicates with the controller to prevent the use of the recharge unit (16) if the recharge unit (16) has been previously used. 11. The surgical instrument system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the recharge unit (16) is chosen from the group consisting of a surgical staple recharge unit, a clip applicator recharge unit, a unit Electrosurgical recharge, a diagnostic recharge unit.