Multiple level thresholds to modify operation of powered surgical instruments

Abstract

Thresholds can be assigned for one or more parameters in connection with the operation of a surgical device. An ultimate threshold can trigger a desired action, including cessation of operations or modification of operations, if the ultimate threshold is reached, or predicted to be reached. In addition, a marginal threshold can trigger a desired action, including improving operations such as slowing operations where the value of a parameter is measured to be between the values defined by a marginal threshold and an ultimate threshold. Multiple thresholds, based on multiple parameters, can be defined, further enabling calibrated usage, such as slowing operations based on exceeding both a marginal threshold based on number of sterilization cycles and exceeding a marginal threshold based on extent to which current draw exceeds a certain value.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.