US 8,579,897 B2 · Bipolar forceps

Abstract

In various surgical techniques, a bipolar forceps can be used to seal a vessel in two locations such that the vessel can be incised at a location positioned intermediate the two seal locations. The bipolar forceps can include a cutting element which can be configured to incise the vessel. In various embodiments, the cutting element can include a sharp edge which can be moved relative to the vessel. In at least one embodiment, the cutting element can be electrically connected to a source of energy. The bipolar forceps can include first and second electrodes positioned within first and second jaw members, respectively, wherein at least one of the jaw members can include a substantially tapered profile and can be configured to pull the vessel away from the surrounding soft tissue. Such jaw members can include ridges, teeth, and/or a textured outer surface configured to grip the soft tissue and/or vessel.

Claims6

Dependent claims

A surgical instrument for treating soft tissue, comprising:

a flexible shaft;
a housing extending from said flexible shaft;
a conductor in electrical communication with an energy source, said conductor having a contact portion;
and
a jaw rotatably connected to said housing, wherein said jaw is configured to be inserted through a working channel of an endoscope, wherein said jaw is selectively rotatable between a first position, an intermediate position, and a second position, wherein said intermediate position is between said first position and said second position, and wherein said jaw includes:
an electrode, wherein said electrode is not in contact with said contact portion when said jaw is in said first position and when said jaw is in said intermediate position, and wherein said electrode is configured to contact said contact portion when said jaw is in said second position such that said electrode is in electrical communication with said conductor to transmit energy to the soft tissue.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Bipolar forceps

Life of this patent

Bipolar forceps

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims6