KR20160103964A - Precision blade electrosurgical instrument - Google Patents

Abstract

The electrosurgical electrode of the present invention comprises a elongated body having a longitudinal side edge and a cross-section forming a longitudinally incised edge configured for planar electrosurgical cutting. The body has a shape in which the thickness of the side edge is greater than 0.01 inches to form at least two incision edges, and the ratio of the cross section to the incision edge is less than 0.0004 in ² per incision edge.

Description

{PRECISION BLADE ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT}

The present invention relates to an electrosurgical apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to an electrosurgical electrode for use in performing an electrosurgical operation.

Modern surgical techniques are often accompanied by cauterization of the incisional tissue to coagulate or stop the bleeding that occurs during the incision of the tissue and / or during the performance of the surgical procedure. In the area of electrosurgery, medical procedures that cure tissue incisions and / or leak vessels are performed using radio frequency (RF) electrical energy. The RF energy is generated by the wave generator and is delivered to the patient's tissue via a manipulation electrode manipulated by a physician. The manipulation electrode transfers electrical discharge to the cellular material of the patient's body adjacent to the electrode. This discharge causes the cellular material to be heated to incise the tissue and / or to cauterize the blood vessel. For a historical perspective and details of such a technique, see U.S. Patent No. 4,936,842 issued to D'Amelio et al., Entitled " Electroprobe Apparatus ", the title of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety .

Electrosurgical procedures are widely used and offer a number of advantages including the use of a single surgical instrument for both incision and cauterization / coagulation. A conventional unipolar electrosurgical surgical system includes an active electrode, such as an electrosurgical instrument in the form of an electrosurgical instrument having a conductive electrode applied by a physician to the patient at the surgical site for performing a handpiece and surgery, And has a return electrode. The electrode of the electrosurgical instrument produces a high density RF current at the point of contact with the patient to create a surgical effect that cuts or coagulates the tissue. The return electrode carries the same RF current provided to the electrode or tip of the electrosurgical instrument after the RF current has passed through the patient by completing the circuit, thus providing a return path to the electrosurgical generator.

Currently, various proposals have been implemented in existing electrosurgical instruments. Examples of such proposals include those described in US Pat. No. 4,534,347 to Leonard S. Taylor, US Pat. No. 4,674,498 to Peter Stasz, and US Pat. No. 4,785,807 to G. Marsden Blanch, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety It is incorporated by reference. The former two of the above patents illustrate a device having a sharp exposed edge (e.g., a blade-like shape) used to perform conventional mechanical incisions of tissue. The last of these patents discloses a non-sharp blade in which the insulating layer is entirely coated so that cutting is performed by electrical energy that is capacitively transferred across the insulating layer rather than conventional mechanical action.

In electrosurgical surgery, it is widely accepted that "incision" is achieved when energy transfer is sufficient to boil the water in tissue cells to rupture the cell membrane internally rather than externally. This electrosurgical incision requires a high level of energy, which results in a correspondingly high electrode temperature. High temperatures associated with electrosurgical procedures can cause thermal necrosis of tissue adjacent to the electrode. The longer the tissue is exposed to the high temperatures associated with electrosurgery, the more likely the tissue will undergo thermal necrosis. Thermal necrosis of the tissue may reduce the incision rate of the tissue, increase postoperative complications, increase scar formation and healing time, and increase the incidence of thermal injury to tissue away from the incision site.

While Blanch's proposal achieves significant advances in the art and is widely accepted in the field of electrosurgery, it increases the incision accuracy and reduces thermal necrosis to reduce healing time and post-operative complications, There is a continuing need for further improvements in electrosurgical procedures to reduce the incidence of thermal injury to tissue away from the incision site and to increase the incision rate. In particular, conventional electrosurgical electrodes are not as accurate as their energy applications, and consequently, thermal diffusion and tissue damage they produce can be a problem. Similarly, conventional electrodes can not be operated effectively in small, dense, or sensitive tissue locations. Because of this, conventional unipolar electrosurgical electrodes have been less effective at certain treatments or under certain conditions (e.g., nerve / spinal / head surgery and pediatric surgery).

To overcome these and other disadvantages in the use of typical electrosurgical electrodes for electrosurgical operations, some successful electrosurgical needle electrodes have been employed. However, electrosurgical needles have particular limitations on their cutting or cutting function (e.g., long cutouts or cuts along the plane) and operability.

Thus, a number of disadvantages that can be addressed exist in conventional electrosurgical devices. In particular, an electrode that is highly tuned and configured for incision or cut along the tissue plane, limits unintentional tissue damage, reduces postoperative complications, increases the rate and accuracy of dissection, and promotes faster healing . However, the subject matter disclosed and / or claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that operate only in environments such as those described above, or that solve certain drawbacks. Rather, the foregoing background is provided so that this disclosure will be limited only by the scope of the claims.

The present invention relates to an electrode or blade for precise electrosurgical surgery which is configured for cutting or incision along a tissue plane and is highly adjustable. In addition, electrodes or blades for precision electrosurgical operations can limit unintentional tissue damage, reduce postoperative complications, increase the rate and accuracy of dissection, and / or promote faster healing. By way of example, one embodiment includes an electrosurgical electrode configured for use in performing an electrosurgical surgical procedure. The electrode may include a body extending between the first end and the second end. The body may be formed of a conductive material and may be electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator (e.g., to facilitate communication of electrical energy from the generator to the body of the electrode and / To communicate with the patient's tissue and perform an electrosurgical surgical procedure thereon).

In at least one embodiment, the body includes (i) at least one major surface (e.g., a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface), (ii) at least one longitudinal side edge (I. E., At least partially between the first major surface and the second major surface and / or extending from the first end toward the second end) and / or (iii) A first major surface, and / or one or more longitudinal side edges).

In at least one embodiment, at least one of the longitudinal side edges has a thickness (e.g., between the first major surface and the second major surface). The longitudinal side edge may also be configured to electrosurgically sever the tissue along a plane extending from the first location of the tissue to the second location of the tissue and the second location may be configured to be substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal side edge Away from the first position.

In at least one embodiment, the thickness of the longitudinal side edge (s) may be greater than about 0.01 inch (0.254 mm). When the longitudinal side edge has a thickness greater than about 0.01 inches, the longitudinal side edge may form or comprise two or more longitudinally-shaped cutting edges, and / or the body may be about 0.0004 square inches per inch ² / E) or a smaller cross-sectional-to-longitudinal incision edge number ratio.

In one or more other embodiments, the longitudinal side edge (s) may have a thickness equal to or less than about 0.01 inches. When the longitudinal side edge has a thickness equal to or less than about 0.01 inches, the longitudinal side edge may form or include one longitudinal incision edge and / or the body may be about 0.000150 square inches per longitudinal incision edge (in ² / E) or a smaller cross-sectional-to-longitudinal incision edge number ratio

In one or more other embodiments, the electrode comprises at least one longitudinal side edge (each including one longitudinal edge) having a thickness equal to or less than about 0.01 inches, and at least one longitudinal edge having a thickness greater than about 0.01 inches And may include longitudinal side edges (each including two or more longitudinal cutting edges). When an embodiment includes a hybrid of longitudinal side edge (s) having a thickness (s) equal to or less than about 0.01 inches and longitudinal side edge (s) having a thickness (s) greater than about 0.01 inches , The body of the electrode may include a ratio of cross-sectional-to-longitudinal incision edges that is less than or equal to about 0.001 square inches (in ² / E) per longitudinal incision edge.

The present summary is provided to introduce a selection of the concepts of the brief form which will be further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to represent key or essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Additional features and advantages of exemplary embodiments of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the exemplary embodiments. The features and advantages of such embodiments can be realized and attained by combinations and mechanisms particularly pointle out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practice of such exemplary embodiments as described below.

To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be presented with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the appended drawings. These drawings should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention, as they are merely illustrative of the present invention. The present invention will be described and illustrated with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary electrosurgical system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 shows a top view of an exemplary electrosurgical electrode for use with the electrosurgical system of Figure 1;
Figure 2a shows a cross-sectional view of the electrode for electrosurgical operation of Figure 2;
Figure 3 shows a top view of another exemplary electrosurgical electrode.
FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional view of the electrode for electrosurgical operation of FIG.
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of another exemplary electrosurgical electrode.
Figure 4a shows a cross-sectional view of the electrode for electrosurgical operation of Figure 4;
Figures 5A-5H respectively show cross-sectional views of an exemplary electrosurgical electrode according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 6A-6E, respectively, show cross-sectional views of an exemplary electrosurgical electrode according to one embodiment of the present invention.
7A-7O illustrate cross-sectional views of an exemplary electrosurgical electrode according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively.
8A-8G show cross-sectional views of an exemplary electrosurgical electrode according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively.

Before describing the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the parameters of the specifically illustrated systems, methods, devices, products, processes, combinations and / or kits which are of course subject to change. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the invention only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Accordingly, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to specific configurations, but these descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. Various modifications may be made to the arrangements shown within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims. For purposes of clarity, like elements have been referred to by like reference numerals throughout the various accompanying drawings.

The present invention relates to a precision electrosurgical electrode or blade configured to be cut or cut along a tissue plane that is very easy to operate. In addition, electrodes or blades for precision electrosurgical operations can limit undesirable tissue damage, reduce postoperative complications, increase the rate and accuracy of dissection, and / or promote faster healing . For example, one example includes an electrosurgical electrode configured for use in performing an electrosurgical surgical procedure. The electrode may include a body extending between the first end and the second end. The body is made of a conductive material (e.g., to facilitate radio frequency electrical energy to the patient tissue to facilitate electrical energy communication from the electrosurgical generator to the body of the electrode and / or to perform electrosurgical surgical procedures) And can be electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator.

In at least one embodiment, the body includes (i) at least one major surface (e.g., a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface), (ii) At least one longitudinal side edge at least partially disposed between the major surfaces and / or extending in length from the first cross-section to the second cross-section), and / or (iii) Two major surfaces, and / or at least partially between one or more longitudinal side edges).

In at least one embodiment, at least one of the longitudinal side edges has a thickness (e.g., between the first major surface and the second major surface). The longitudinal side edge may also be configured to electrosurgically sever the tissue along a plane extending from the first location of the tissue to the second location of the tissue, wherein the second location is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal side edge And is spaced apart from the first position by a predetermined distance in one direction.

In at least one embodiment, the thickness of the longitudinal side edge (s) may be greater than about 0.01 inch (0.254 mm). Longitudinal side edges Having a thickness greater than about 0.01 inches and the longitudinal side edges can have two or more longitudinal cutting edges, and / or body is square inches (in ² / per longitudinal incision edges of approximately 0.0004 E) < / RTI > or less.

In one or more other embodiments, the longitudinal side edge (s) may have a thickness of about 0.01 inches or less. If the longitudinal side edge has a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.01 inches, the longitudinal side edge may form or include one longitudinally incised edge, and / or the body may have a thickness of less than or equal to about one square inch per longitudinal incision edge of about 0.000150 Sectional area versus longitudinal incision edge ratio.

In one or more other embodiments, the electrode comprises at least one longitudinal side edge having a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.01 inches (each including one longitudinally incised edge), and at least one longitudinal side edge (including at least two longitudinally incised edges) And may include one or more longitudinal side edges having a thickness of about 0.01 inches or less. If an embodiment includes the crossing of the longitudinal side edge (s) having a thickness (s) of about 0.01 inch or less and the longitudinal side edge (s) having a thickness (s) of about 0.01 inch or more, (In ² / E) or less per longitudinal incision edge of 0.001.

As used herein, "side edge "," longitudinal side edge ", and like terms refer to a transition region and / or structural component between two major surfaces. As one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize, a continuous surface surrounding the circumference to return from an arbitrary starting point back to the starting point also forms two major surfaces (e.g., one on either side of the starting point) I will understand. Likewise, the continuous surface surrounding the other (opposite) end to reach one end can form two main surfaces.

As used herein, the terms " incision edge ", "longitudinal incision edge ", and similar terms are used interchangeably to refer to a tissue plane, or a line within an anatomically or naturally occurring separation of tissue types, tissue boundaries, A portion of the electrode for electrosurgical operation that is structurally operable, constructed and / or formed and / or enabled to follow such plane or line, and / or to cut the patient tissue through such plane or line, . As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, such cuts occur along and / or over a predetermined distance (e.g., from a first position to a second position). In addition, the electrosurgical cutting plane may comprise a straight line, a curve, an angled line, a circular line (the second position after cutting along the distance corresponds to the first position) and / or a combination thereof.

One or more embodiments implement the so-called "precision technique ", which combines with at least one edge arranged parallel to the longitudinal length of the electrode to limit the cross-sectional area of the electrode. In some embodiments, the precise engineering principles (s) may include enhanced manipulation, reduced power requirements relative to some existing techniques, lower amount of low thermal decomposition damage to tissue surrounding the incision site than some existing techniques , And / or for electrosurgical energy for tissues that have the ability to easily cut along the plane and / or to be smaller, narrower, confined or contracted, or to be able to safely operate within a localized area And enables the generation of electrodes that are configured for such precision application and / or are formed for such precision application.

In particular, the ratio of the cross-sectional area (A) to the number of longitudinally-incised edges (E) is unexpectedly important for one or more of the benefits of the specific embodiments of the present invention (or its determinants). Specifically, in one or more embodiments, the body may include longitudinal side edge (s) (only one) having a thickness of at least about 0.01 inches, at least two longitudinal incisions (e.g., associated with each longitudinal side edge) Edge, and / or a ratio (in ² / E) of cross-sectional-versus-longitudinally-incised edges of 0.0004 or less. In one or more other embodiments, the body includes longitudinal side edge (s) (only one) having a thickness of at least about 0.01 inches, one longitudinal edge associated with each longitudinal side edge, and / (In ² / E) of the cross-sectional area versus the longitudinally incised edge. In one or more other embodiments, the body comprises: (a) longitudinal side edge (s) having a thickness of about 0.01 inches or less (having each of the associated longitudinal incision edges each), (b) Combination, or blending of longitudinal side edge (s) having a thickness of at least about 0.01 inches (with each associated longitudinal incision edge). The hybridization example may have a cross-sectional area versus longitudinal incision edge count ratio of less than or equal to about 0.001 in ² / E. As noted above, the ratio of the cross-sectional area to the longitudinal incision edge may be in square inches (in ² ) per longitudinal incision edge (E) (i.e., in ² / E).

As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, the cross-sectional area of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the cross-sectional area of the body of an electrosurgical electrode. Various cross-sectional area measurement techniques are known in the art and are contemplated herein. For example, the cross-sectional area of a rectangular body can be determined by measuring and multiplying its (vertical and horizontal) dimensions (e.g., base (or width) x height (or thickness)). Similarly, the cross-sectional area of a triangular, trapezoidal, rhomboid and / or diamond-shaped body can be determined by measuring and multiplying its (vertical and horizontal) dimensions and dividing by two (e.g., 1/2 base (or width) (Or thickness)).

For purposes of illustration, if the electrode is configured to have a body with a first side edge having a thickness of 0.01 inches or less and a second side edge thickness of 0.01 inches or greater and a uniform linear taper between the two edges, (First thickness + second thickness) / 2). ≪ / RTI > As noted above, the cross-sectional area to cutting edge ratio for such a configuration may be less than about 0.001 in ² / E (i.e., (W x T _ave ) / E? 0.001 in ² / E).

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the fabrication of electrosurgical electrodes can not take into account the formation of more than one true geometric shape, unless the invention is limited to or limited by any theory of the invention. In particular, geometric corners, points, tangential or side connections can not be achieved, for example, by an available manufacturing process or method, under ideal circumstances. Thus, although one or more embodiments disclosed herein may include one or more at least partially rounded edges (e.g., at the microscopic level), those skilled in the art will appreciate that the terms "rectangle", "triangle", " Or other geometric or non-geometric cross-section may be the finest surface or description of the body.

In at least one embodiment, the cross-sectional area can be determined by determining the cross-sectional area of one or more geometric or non-geometric shapes whose cross-sections of the body are closely related (or the body is most closely approximated). Thus, the cross-sectional area of a substantially rectangular body can be estimated (or determined) (e.g., base (or width) x height) by measuring and multiplying (vertical and horizontal) dimensions. In an alternative embodiment, a true cross-sectional area (e.g., without small or very small edges and / or corner rounding) can be determined and / or measured. For example, modeling software or other measurement instrumentation may be used to determine the actual cross-sectional area occupied by the material (s) forming the body of the electrosurgical electrode. Thus, certain embodiments having configurations of one or more protrusions or other features may have accurate and / or precisely determined diagnostic areas.

In other embodiments, the cross-sectional area is bounded, surrounded, and covered by (outermost) dimensions, edges, protrusions and / or surfaces (e.g., the cross-sectional area and / or common dimension And / or an occupied cross-sectional area. For example, the cross-sectional area may include the longest or outermost dimension of the body in the x-plane, the longest or outermost dimension of the body in the xy-plane, or other similar calculations.

Certain embodiments may include one or more (concave) channels or grooves in the body of an electrosurgical electrode. Such a channel or groove may be represented as a recess in the cross-section of the body. The cross-sectional area of the body having one or more recesses may include both the cross-sectional area of the body portion (or the material thereof) and the cross-sectional area of the recess (s) or recessed portion (s). Thus, the cross-sectional area of the body may include cross-sectional areas that are bounded by the outermost dimensions, edges, protrusions, and / or surfaces of the body (e.g., where the recessed portion (s) is part of the body). In alternative embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the body having one or more recesses may include only the cross-sectional area of the body portion (or physical material) of the electrode.

Similarly, the cross-sectional area of the body with one or more (convex) projections may include the cross-sectional area bounded and / or formed by the body dimensions and the (combined) external dimensions of the projection (s). Thus, any apparently recessed portion between the protrusions can contribute to the cross-sectional area of the body in some embodiments. The cross-sectional area of the body with one or more projections may also (or alternatively) include the cross-sectional area of the projected cross-sectional area of the body portion (without projections). Thus, any apparently recessed portion between the protrusions does not contribute to the cross-sectional area of the body in some embodiments.

In at least one embodiment, the body having one or more recessed portions may have a cross-sectional area determined by the inclusion of the convex portion in the calculation. For example, a substantially triangular body (e.g., see FIG. 7n) having a recessed recessed portion (e.g., where there is no recessed recessed portion in the triangular shaped body) As shown in FIG. Thus, a body having at least one recessed portion may have a cross-sectional area comprising at least one recessed portion and an area bounded by the body. In another embodiment, the body without the concave portion may have the same cross-sectional area as the actual cross-sectional area of the material forming the body. Thus, a body with a convex (or generally convex) body may have a cross-sectional area that includes the area occupied by the body (or its approximation as described above).

As described above, an embodiment of the present invention is directed to a lithographic apparatus including (i) at least one major surface (e.g., a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface), and (ii) Wherein at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges has a thickness greater than about 0.01 inches (0.254 mm) and the at least one longitudinal side surface At least one longitudinal edge and at least one of the edges having at least two longitudinally-facing edges; and (iii) at least one longitudinal side edge having at least one longitudinal edge and / or at least one longitudinal side edge, (Iv) a cross-sectional area of 0.0004 in ² / E or less versus (effective) number of longitudinal incision edge (s) numbers.

In at least one embodiment, the body may include a elongated body extending longitudinally between the first end and the second end. The first and second ends may be separated by a first length. Similarly, the at least one longitudinal side edge may extend a second length between the first end and the second end. In at least one embodiment, the first length and the second length may be substantially identical such that the at least one longitudinal side edge extends between the first end and the second end. In another embodiment, the second length may be shorter than the first length such that the at least one longitudinal side edge does not extend over the entirety between the first end and the second end.

In some embodiments, the thickness of at least one of the longitudinal side edges and / or the at least one longitudinal side edge is measured between the first major surface and the second major surface (e.g., opposite the first major surface) . In some embodiments, the at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges is connected to a first major surface and a second major surface such that (i) at least one of the two or more longitudinally- (Ii) at least one of the two or more longitudinal cutting edges has a connection between the at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges and the second major surface . Specifically, when the thickness is greater than about 0.01 inches, the at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges may produce and / or provide more than one effective longitudinal incision edge in certain embodiments. Thus, at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges has two or more longitudinally-incised edges in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the at least one longitudinal side edge may include a plurality of longitudinal side edges, wherein at least one of the plurality of longitudinal side edges includes at least two longitudinally-facing edges, And has a thickness greater than about 0.01 inches between the second major surfaces. The plurality of longitudinal side edges may also include at least one longitudinal side edge having a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.01 inches between the first major surface and the second major surface. Such hybridization embodiments may have a cross-sectional area to longitudinal incision edge number ratio of less than or equal to about 0.001 in ² / E.

In another embodiment, the body comprises (i) at least one major surface (e.g., a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface), and (ii) Wherein at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges has a thickness of less than or equal to about 0.01 inches (0.254 mm), and wherein at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges At least one longitudinal side edge having one longitudinal cutting edge; and (iii) at least one longitudinal side edge having at least one longitudinal edge and / or at least one longitudinal edge, And / or (iv) a cross-sectional area that is less than or equal to about 0.000150 in ² / E (effective) longitudinal incision edge (s).

In at least one embodiment, at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges is connected to a first major surface and a second major surface, the longitudinally incised edge including at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges, 1 and the second major surfaces. Specifically, in the case of having a longitudinal side edge thickness of less than or equal to about 0.01 inches, the at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges may, in certain embodiments, produce and / or provide more than one effective longitudinal incision edge Do not. Thus, the at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges has one incision edge in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the body may have a cross-sectional height between the first major surface and the second major surface. The cross-sectional height may be greater than about 0.01 inches. In addition, at least one of the one or more major surfaces (e.g., the first major surface and / or the second major surface) may include at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges (e.g., , The at least one of the one or more longitudinal side edges (with one longitudinal incision edge), wherein the thickness of the at least one longitudinal side edge is less than or equal to about 0.01) have. In certain embodiments, the cross-sectional height of the body may be greater than about 0.01 inches due to the at least one tapered portion, and the thickness of the at least one longitudinal side edge may be less than about 0.01 inches. Thus, the hybridization configuration can be formed in one or more tapered portions. Such a hybridization embodiment may have a cross-sectional versus longitudinal incision edge number ratio of less than or equal to about 0.001 in ² / E.

As described above, in some embodiments, one or more longitudinal side edges (e.g., disposed between the first major surface and the second major surface and having at least one length between the first end of the body and the second end of the body And a plurality of longitudinally extending side edges (extending the side edges). At least one of the plurality of longitudinal side edges may have a thickness of less than about 0.01 inches (e.g., between the first major surface and the second major surface).

In some embodiments, the at least one tapered portion may include a plurality of (e.g., at least two, preferably at least two) tapered portions (e.g., extending from at least one of the first major surface and the second major surface to one or more longitudinally- And may include a tapered portion. For example, one embodiment may include a plurality of tapered portions extending from a portion of the first major surface to individual longitudinal side edges of the plurality of longitudinal side edges.

Another embodiment is an article of manufacture comprising at least one tauted portion extending from at least a portion of a plurality of longitudinal side edges to a portion of a first major surface and a tread portion extending from the portion of the second major surface to one or more of the plurality of longitudinal side edges Or more tapered portions. Another embodiment includes a plurality of tapered portions extending from a portion of a first major surface to individual longitudinal lateral edges of a plurality of longitudinal lateral edges and a plurality of tapered portions extending from a portion of the second major surface to one of a plurality of longitudinal & Or more of the tapered portion. Another embodiment includes a plurality of tapered portions extending from a portion of a first major surface to individual longitudinal side edges of a plurality of longitudinal side edges and a plurality of tapered portions extending from a portion of the first major surface to an individual longitudinal direction of a plurality of longitudinal side edges And may include a plurality of tapered portions extending to the side edges.

In certain embodiments, one or more longitudinal side edges may follow the first major surface and / or the second major surface. The electrode may also include a tip (e.g., disposed at the first end of the body). The tip may also be at least partially disposed between the first major surface and the second major surface and / or may extend to at least one of the first major surface, the second major surface, and one or more longitudinal side edges. The tip may also have a blunt shape, pointed shape, rounded shape, angled shape, or any other suitable shape.

One or more embodiments may include an insulating coating (e.g., covering at least a portion of the body). The insulating coating may be provided at a thickness or at such a thickness that it is sufficient to ensure the transfer of radio frequency electrical energy from the body to the tissue. The insulating coating may comprise a non-stick coating as is known in the art or may be a non-stick coating. The insulating coating may be formed of materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), silicone, ceramic, glass, fluorinated hydrocarbons, diamond, high temperature polymers, hydrophilic polymers, capacitor dielectric, and / . ≪ / RTI >

In at least one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the body may have a cross-sectional width (e.g., at opposite side edges). In one embodiment, the cross-sectional width can be about 0.055 inches or less. In alternative embodiments, the cross-sectional width may be greater than about 0.055 inches. The cross-sectional width may also have a cross-sectional height (e.g., between the first major surface and the second major surface). The section height may be about 0.01 inches or less in some embodiments. Alternatively, the section height may be greater than about 0.01 inches in some embodiments. The difference (s) between the cross sectional height and the thickness of the one or more side edges may determine the shape of the body and / or contribute to the shape of the body. For example, a body having a cross-sectional height less than the thickness of one or more side edges may have a concave shape.

In addition, the cross-sectional area may have a cross-sectional shape or configuration. For example, certain embodiments may include one or more rounded, angled, peaked, rugged, smooth, protruding or other elements, or combinations thereof. For example, some embodiments may have a (substantially) substantially spherical cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, a rhombus cross-section, a parallelogram cross-section, a diamond cross-section, an airfoil or cumulative cross- Sectional shape, "X" shape section, "V" shape section, "C" shape section, "L" shape section, "J" shape section, "T" shape section, "X" shape section, "V" shape section (E.g., half-collimation, etc.) that includes a lens-like cross-section, a partial lens-like cross-section (e.g., half lens, a quarter lens, etc.), multiple leaf sections, semicircular sections and / can do.

It will be appreciated that due to manufacturing limitations, complete and / or geometrically "sharp" corners required to form one or more of the configurations described above can not be formed. Nevertheless, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the cross-sectional shape may include at least partially rounded corners and may include the cross-sectional shapes or configurations described above.

In at least one embodiment, the electrodes are at least 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 30%, 30% %, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 1/4, / 2, 2/3, 3/4, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60% , 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 3/4 or 5%, 10%, 15% , 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% And may be configured for use in electrosurgical surgical procedures at power levels reduced by 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 3/4 or more. For example, a typical power level of 30 watts (or J / s) used for general surgical procedures can be reduced to 10 watts when using precision electrodes to achieve the desired result with improved heat output and improved user operability . In addition, the electrode (a) large, (b) from about 0.000150 in ² / E greater and / or (c) than the electro-surgical has a larger cross section for cutting edge ratios of less than about 0.001 in ² / E of greater than about 0.0004 in ² / E At least 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75% , 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% %, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 1/4, / 2, 2/3, 3/4 or 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60% , 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 3/4 or more For a particular use in performing an electrosurgical surgical procedure at a reduced power level (as compared to a power level commonly used for the same or similar tissue types for an electrode having an electrode). Thus, embodiments of the present invention allow significantly lower power delivery through the tissue, such electrode embodiments can be readily used and applied in sensitive areas or tissues susceptible to thermal damage, which typically do not benefit from the use of electrosurgery in particular I will.

Another embodiment includes a method of using an electrosurgical electrode (e.g., as described above) to perform an electrosurgical surgical procedure. The electrodes may be constructed according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein. In a particular embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: (i) supplying energy to the electrode with radio frequency electrical energy delivered from the generator (e.g., at least 2/3 lower power level than a conventional electrosurgical setup) Contacting the tissue with at least one of the incision edges to separate the tissue; and (ii) advancing the electrode (s) energized by a certain distance, along a plane extending from the tissue first position to the tissue second position (Iii) removing at least one of the one or more longitudinal cutting edges from contact with the patient tissue, and (iv) identifying one or more patient sites for which clotting is required And (v) contacting the site of the patient requiring coagulation with at least a portion of the first major surface or the second major surface, (E.g., at least two-thirds lower power level than a conventional electrosurgical setup) while contacting the first major surface or at least a portion of the second major surface, or by spray coagulating the tissue from the surface and / And cauterizing one or more patient sites that require solidification by supplying energy to the electrodes with radio frequency electrical energy.

In some embodiments, the method may be performed while supplying energy to the electrodes with radio frequency electrical energy delivered from the generator (e.g., at a power level that is at least 2/3 lower than a conventional electrosurgical setup) Contacting the tissue with a tip disposed between a first major surface and a second major surface of the body at a first end thereof. The method also includes advancing the electrode while supplying energy to the electrode with radio frequency electrical energy delivered from the generator at a power level that is at least 2/3 lower than the conventional electrosurgical setting, 2 < / RTI > position of the tissue.

In at least one embodiment, the electrosurgical surgical procedure may include nervous system surgery or treatment, spinal surgery or treatment, brain surgery or treatment, and / or pediatric surgery or treatment. In certain embodiments, the step of advancing the energized electrode may include one or more direction changes during cutting or during creation of the cut-out. For example, the step of delivering the energized electrode may be performed by applying a soft, round, sharp, or even right (e.g., advancing the electrode supplied with energy along the cut / And may include an angular orientation change.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 and the corresponding description are intended to provide a brief, general description of an exemplary electrosurgical surgical system that may be implemented in one or more embodiments of the present invention. In particular, a wave generator 110, a cable or cord 140, a handheld device or hand piece 120, an electrosurgical electrode 130, a return electrode (not shown) 125 and a cable or cord 135 are shown. In a preferred embodiment, the generator 110 is an RF wave generator. Accordingly, the surgeon or other user may use the electrosurgical system 100 during surgical or other procedures to incise the patient ' s tissue and / or to cauterize the blood vessels of the patient's tissue.

In the illustrated electrosurgical procedure, RF electrical energy is generated by a wave generator, such as wave generator 110. The RF electrical energy is transmitted to the electrode 130 via the handle 120, which is electrically coupled to the wave generator 110 via the cord 140. As is conventional in the art, the wave generator 110 may include a high frequency oscillator and an amplifier to generate RF electrical energy waves that can be used to cut and / or cure tissue during electrosurgical procedures.

The electrical RF electrical energy waves power the handle 120 to produce an electrical discharge from the electrode 130 to the patient's tissue. Due to the discharge, the cellular material of the patient's tissue in contact with the electrode 130 directly (or indirectly, for example, closely or very closely) may be heated. In particular, energy transfer may be sufficient to cause water in the tissue cells to boil, thereby rupturing the cell membrane, thereby electrosurgically dissecting, separating and / or severing the patient tissue. In at least one embodiment, the electrosurgical incision, separation and / or severing does not involve a significant amount or degree of mechanical incision, separation and / or amputation. In some embodiments, the electrode 125 provides a return electrical path to the wave generator 110 through a cord 135 for electrical charge, which dissipates into the surrounding tissue of the patient's body. It will be appreciated that terms such as incision, separation, and / or amputation may be used interchangeably herein to reflect various types of surgical tissue separation and the like.

In some embodiments, during electrosurgical operation, discharges from electrode 130 may be used to independently or simultaneously incise and cauterize. For example, due to the constant sinusoidal wave supplied by the wave generator 110 and delivered to the handle 120, the electrode 130 may be cut through the tissue of the patient's body. Alternatively, due to the attenuation wave supplied by the wave generator 110 and delivered to the handle 120, the electrode 130 may cauterize the leaking blood vessel. In at least one embodiment, a combination of constant sinusoidal and damping waves can be supplied to the handle 120 by the wave generator 110 to enable the electrode 130 to be simultaneously incised and cauterized, Minimize tissue trauma and blood loss during the procedure. For example, in one or more embodiments, alternating transmission of a constant sinusoidal wave and / or attenuating wave may be performed by the wave generator 110 to the handle 120 to enable the electrode 130 to be simultaneously incised and cauterized , Thereby minimizing tissue trauma and blood loss during surgery.

As a guide, Figures 2, 3, and 4 illustrate (interchangeable) electrodes 130 or exemplary classifications of various configurations, designs, and / or shapes. Figures 2a, 3a, 4a and 5a-8g illustrate an exemplary classification of a cross-sectional shape for (the body of) the electrode 130 for electrosurgery.

For example, Figure 2 shows a typical electrode for illustrative purposes. 2, the electrode 130 may include: (i) RF power generated by the wave generator 110 to be transmitted to the electrode 130 through the handle 120; (Ii) a working end 160 that is configured to contact the patient tissue and to apply a discharge to the patient tissue. In at least one embodiment, the working end 160 and the connecting end 150 may include both ends of the electrode 130.

However, it will be appreciated that the electrode 130 need not include a elongated shape as shown in Fig. For example, the electrode 130 may have a curved configuration, an angled configuration, a circular configuration, a flat configuration, a wide configuration, or other configurations within the scope of the present invention. That is, in some embodiments, the electrode 130 may have any shape suitable for use in electrosurgical procedures.

In some embodiments, the connecting end 150 may include a connecting member 155 configured to be coupled to the handle 120. The length of the connecting end 150 and / or the connecting member 155 may vary depending on the type of treatment the electrode is used and / or the particular type of electrode. For example, the length of the connection end can range from about 6.35 cm to about 48 cm in certain embodiments. In various embodiments, the lengths of the connecting ends can be about 6.35 cm, 6.9 cm, 10.16 cm, 15.24 cm, 33 cm, 45 cm, and 48 cm, respectively. It will be appreciated that the length of the connecting end can be of any suitable length and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

The electrode 130 also acts as an isolator and may be used to provide protection and / or to facilitate retention of the electrode 130 by the handle 120 (e.g., surrounding at least a portion of the electrode 130) Sleeves or coatings (400). For example, an insulating material may be applied to a portion of the working end 160 of the electrode 130 to provide an insulating shield between the patient tissue and a portion of the working end 160.

In one embodiment, the insulating material may be applied around at least a portion of the working end 160 of the electrode 130 (the remainder of the electrode tip (e.g., only a small portion) exposed for use during electrosurgery) . For example, the insulating material may cover the entire working end except for about 0.3 cm at one end of the working end 160 or the electrode 130. Thus, the exposed portion can be used to perform electrosurgical procedures without discharging between the tissue of the patient and the remainder of the electrode 130 (or the working end 160). In an alternative embodiment, the insulating material may leave a larger portion of the working end 160 of the electrode 130 exposed.

In some embodiments, the coating may comprise PTFE, a fluoropolymer, a polyolefin, a ceramic, PARYLENE, or a combination thereof. Such a coating may be applied, for example, to a portion of the working end 160 of the electrode 130, to provide an insulating shield between a portion of the tissue and the working end 160 of the patient.

The working end 160 of the electrode 130 may also include a body 200 configured to contact the patient tissue and apply a discharge to the patient's body. The body 200 (and / or other portions of the electrode 130) includes a conductive material, may be comprised of a conductive material, and / or may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the conductive material may comprise stainless steel or other non-corrosive materials. Specific embodiments may also or alternatively include, for example, brass, nickel, aluminum, titanium, copper, silver, gold, other types of steel or alloys thereof. Some embodiments may also include non-metallic conductive materials such as certain conductive plastics (for example, if such non-metallic conductive materials have inherent qualities of stability and completeness sufficient to meet the desired requirements).

As will be described in greater detail below, the body 200 of the electrode 130 may have a elongated design or shape. For example, the body 200 may include a first end 210 and a second end 220 (e.g., separated by a length equal to or similar to length 500). However, it will be appreciated that the body 200 need not include a elongated shape as shown in Fig. For example, the body 200 may have a curved shape, an angled shape, a circular shape, a flat shape, a wide shape, or other shapes within the range of the present invention. Thus, in some embodiments, the body 200 may have any shape suitable for use in electrosurgical procedures.

In at least one embodiment, the electrode 130 optionally includes at least one tip 300 (e.g., disposed on and / or adjacent to the first end 210 of the body 200) can do. For example, in some embodiments, the body 200 may include or retain the tip 300. In certain embodiments, the first end 210 may include a tip 300 (e.g., the tip 300 may extend from the first end 210). Similarly, the second end 220 may be connected, attached and / or positioned adjacent to (and / or extending from) the connecting end 150 or its connecting member 155. However, the names corresponding to the first and / or second are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Thus, in some embodiments, the first end 210 may be connected, attached and / or adjacent to (and / or extend from) the connecting end 150 or its connecting member 155.

Similarly, one or more of the tips 300 may be disposed at the electrode 130, the working end 160, and / or other locations and / or locations around the body 200. For example, the body 200 may include one or more tips 300 disposed on top (in the longitudinal direction) and / or forming one or more peaks along the body 200. As will be described in greater detail below, the tip 300 has or comprises any shape including one or more various design features suitable for one or more particular electrosurgical procedures.

The body 200 may further include at least one major surface 230 and at least one side edge 260. In some embodiments, the major surface 230 may include a first side 240 and / or a second side 250 (opposite). In at least one embodiment, the side edges 260 may be located at or near the first side 240 and / or the second side 250 of the major surface 230. The longitudinal side edge 260 may also extend the length 500 (e.g., between the first end 210 and the second end 220 of the elongated body 200).

In at least one embodiment, the side edges 260 may include one or more incision edges 270. For example, the side edge 260 may be connected to the major surface 230 such that the cutting edge 270 includes (or is formed at) the connection between the main surface 230 and the side edge 260. Similarly, the connection between the major surface 230 and the side edge 260 may form a cutting edge 270.

2A, the body 200 includes a first major surface 230a having a first side 240a and a second side 250a and a second major side 230b having a first side 240b and a second side 250b, The first (longitudinal) side edge 260a may be defined by a first side surface 240a and a second side surface 230b of the first major surface 230a, The second (longitudinal) side edge 260b may be located at or near (or between) the first side 240b of the first major surface 230a and the second side 250a and a second side 250b of the second major surface 230b (or between them).

In addition, one or more longitudinal side edge (s) (e.g., longitudinal side edge 260a and / or 260b) may have a thickness (e.g., between first major surface 230a and second major surface 230b) 600). For example, the longitudinal side edge 260a may have a thickness 600 between a first major surface 230a located on a first side 240a and a second major surface 230b located on or adjacent to the first side 240b, ). It will be appreciated that the longitudinal side edges 260b may be formed identically, similarly or differently. For example, the longitudinal side edge 260a may have a thickness greater than the thickness of the longitudinal side edge 260b, and vice versa.

In at least one embodiment, thickness 600 may contribute to and / or determine the number of incision edges (E) 270 included within body 200. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, in some embodiments, the thickness 600 is sufficiently large that a gap between the first major surface 230a and the second major surface 230b (or between the major surface 230 and the lateral edge 230b) (E.g., between the first edge 260 and the second edge 260) includes, forms, and / or allows for the formation of two or more edge edges 270. It will be appreciated, however, that the side edge 260 may include a single cutting edge 270 in some embodiments (e.g., even if the thickness 600 is greater than about 0.01 inches).

In at least one embodiment, thickness 600 (between side edge 260 and / or main surface 230) greater than about 0.01 inches includes formation of two or more incision edges 270, / RTI > and / or < / RTI > For example, two thicknesses 600 (greater than or equal to these dimensions) of about 0.011, 0.012, 0.0125, 0.015, 0.0175, 0.0185, 0.0195, 0.02, and / or 0.05 inch (or any value or range of values therebetween) Forming, and / or allowing the formation of more (more effective) incision edges 270 than can be achieved. Thus, embodiments of the present invention may include (i) at least about 0.011, 0.012, 0.0125, 0.015, 0.0175, 0.0185, 0.0195, 0.02, 0.05 and 0.075 inches (or any value or range of values therebetween) (Or any value or range of values therebetween) of at least about 0.011, 0.012, 0.0125, 0.015, 0.0175, 0.0185, 0.0195, 0.02, 0.05 and 0.075 inches, (iii) at least about 0.011, 0.012, 0.0125, 0.012, 0.015, 0.0175, 0.02, 0.05, and 0.075 inches (or any value or range of values between them) and / or (iv) about 0.011, 0.012, 0.0125, 0.015, 0.0175, 0.0185, 0.0195, 0.02, 0.05, and 0.075 inches (or any value or range of values between them).

As shown in FIG. 2A, for example, the body 200 may include four cutting edges 270a, 270b, 270c, and 270d. Specifically, the connection or transition between the side edge 260a and the first major surface 230a (of the first side edge 240a) provides for the formation of a first (separate and / or effective) incision edge 270a Accommodate, form, and / or allow the use of such devices. Similarly, the connection or transition between the side edge 260a and the second major surface 230b (of the first surface 240b) includes the formation of a second (separate and / or effective) incision edge 270b, Accommodate, form, and / or tolerate. Similarly, the connection or transition between the side edge 260b and the first major surface 230a (of the second side edge 250a) includes the formation of a third (separate and / or effective) incision edge 270c, Accommodate, form, and / or tolerate. Similarly, the connection or transition between the side edge 260b and the second major surface 230b (of the second side edge 250b) includes the formation of a fourth (separate and / or effective) incision edge 270d , Accept, form, and / or tolerate any of the above.

As will be described in greater detail below, the artisan of the art will also appreciate that when the thickness 600 is sufficiently small, the transition between the first major surface 230a and the second major surface 230b, Accommodate, form, and / or permit the formation of a single incision edge 270, as is well known in the art. For example, as discussed in more detail below, a thickness 600 of about 0.01 inches or less may accommodate, form, and / or allow the formation of a single incision edge 270 in some embodiments.

The longitudinal side edges 260a, 260b may also be separated by a width 900. In at least one embodiment, the width 900 may include a distance between the first ends 240a and 240b of the first and second major surfaces 230a and 230b and the second ends 250a and 250b, respectively, have. The width 900 may include any suitable size, measurement, or value that is greater than, equal to, or less than the size 600, and / or the length 500, measurement, or value.

The body 200 also has a cross sectional area 700 (e.g., between the first major surface 230a and the second major surface 230b and between the first longitudinal side edge 260a and the second longitudinal side edge 260b). ≪ / RTI > However, in certain embodiments (e. G. Embodiments having a single longitudinal side edge 260 or more than two longitudinal side edges 260), the cross-sectional area 700 may be differently positioned, , ≪ / RTI > defined and / or configured. Thus, the first major surface 230a, the second major surface 230b, and the one or more longitudinal side edges 260 may at least partially border the cross-sectional area 700. [ The cross-sectional area 700 may also have a cross-sectional height 800 (e.g., between the first major surface 230a and the second major surface 230b).

In some embodiments, the ratio of any of length 500, thickness 600, cross-sectional area 700, section height 800 and / or width 900 to any other size, dimension, Without departing from the scope of < / RTI > However, in some embodiments, the ratio between two or more of the sizes, dimensions, or values described above may be important (or deterministic) to one or more of the benefits of a particular embodiment of the present invention. As an example, in particular, the ratio of the cross-sectional area (A) 700 to the number E of the incision edges 270 may be unexpectedly important to one or more of the above-mentioned advantages of the particular embodiment of the present invention.

3 and 3A, the electrosurgical electrode 130a may include a body 200a. The body 200a (or more than one of its components) may have a length 500a. As illustrated in Figure 3A, the body 200a includes first and second major surfaces 230a and 230b (e.g., separated by a cross-sectional height 800) and first and second longitudinal side edges < RTI ID = 260a, 260b (e.g., each having a thickness 600). In at least one embodiment, the body 200a may have a width 900a, and / or the longitudinal side edges 260a, 260b may be separated by a width 900a. The dimensions of the width 900a (e.g. along the length 500a, the cross-sectional height 800 and / or the thickness 600) can contribute to the calculation of the cross-sectional area 700a.

In some embodiments, width 900a may be less than or equal to width 900 (see Figure 2a). The smaller width 900a may allow, permit and / or enable a higher level of precision of the electrosurgical procedure. By way of example, the user may limit the generation of unintentional tissue damage or injury by reducing the width 900 to a width 900a. Specifically, the width 900a may allow the user to perform a change of orientation during an electrosurgical procedure without damage to the patient's tissue to the same extent as may occur in the width 900. In at least one embodiment, the reduced width 900a may contribute to the reduction of the size and / or cross-sectional area 700a of the tip 200a.

In at least one embodiment, thickness 600a (of side edge (s) 260a and / or 260b) may be greater than about 0.01 inch (0.254 mm). In addition, the ratio of the number of cross-sectional area 700a-to-longitudinal incision edges 270 may be equal to or less than about 0.0004 square inches (in ² / E) per longitudinal incision edge (e.g., When the side edge (s) 260 is greater than about 0.01 inch). In an exemplary embodiment, the exemplary body 200a (having a substantially rectangular cross-section) may have a substantially uniform cross-sectional height 800 of about 0.0185 inches (0.4699 mm). The opposite longitudinal side edges 260a, 260b, separated by a width 900a of about 0.05 inches (1.27 mm), may each have a thickness of about 0.0185 inches (0.4699 mm). Thus, the body 200a can have four (4) longitudinal cutting edges 270 and a cross-sectional area 700a of 0.000925 square inches (in ² ) (0.596773 mm ² ). As a result, the body 200a has a cross-sectional area 700a-to-longitudinal incision edge 270 number of 0.000231 square inches (in ² / E) (e.g., 0.1492 mm ² / E) per longitudinal incision edge Ratio.

In the embodiments described above, each of the desired parameters (i. E., A longitudinal side edge thickness of greater than about 0.01 inches and a thickness of less than about 0.0004 in ² / E, Or the ratio of the number of smaller cross-sectional areas 700a to the number of longitudinal cut edges 270). Thus, any combination of sizes, dimensions, and / or values that results in a ratio of cross-sectional-to-longitudinal incision edges equal to or less than about 0.0004 in ² / E (e.g., greater than about 0.01 inches Longitudinal edge length, longitudinal edge length, incision edge length, body length, body width, body height, cross-sectional thickness, cross-sectional width, cross-sectional height and / or cross-sectional area, etc.) are considered here.

In one or more other embodiments, the body of the electrosurgical electrode has at least one side edge having a thickness equal to or less than about 0.01 inches and a cross-sectional area-to-longitudinal direction less than or equal to about 0.000150 in ² / E And may include the ratio of the number of edges. In at least one embodiment, longitudinal side edges having a thickness equal to or less than about 0.01 inches may be achieved by tapering at least a portion of the body from a cross-sectional height greater than about 0.01 inches to longitudinal side edges. 4 and 4A, the electrosurgical electrode 130b includes a body 200b having side edges 260c and 260d, a tip 300b, and at least one tapered portion 280 ).

As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the body 200b may have opposing major surfaces 230c and 230d, which transition to (or be continuous with) opposite side edges 260c and 260d. Significantly, the body 200b may include a tapered portion 280a extending from a portion of the first major surface 230c to or against the first side edge 260c. Similarly, the body 200b may include a tapered portion 280b extending from a portion of the first major surface 230c to or against the second major side edge 260d. Similarly, the body 200b may include a tapered portion 280c extending from a portion of the second major surface 230d to or toward the first side edge 260c. Similarly, the body 200b may include a tapered portion 280d extending from a portion of the second major surface 230d toward the second side edge 260d.

In some embodiments, the body 200b may have a height 800 (similar to or different from the height 800 of the body 200). Similarly, the body 200b may have a width 900 (similar or different than the width 900 of the body 200). By way of example, width 900 may correspond to width 900a in some embodiments. Indeed, the actual (linear or curvilinear) dimension of height 800, width 900, 900a and / or thickness 600, 600a may be any suitable value or it may include it And / or any range or combination of values of values that are sufficient to match the described parameters (ratio (s) of cross-section-to-longitudinal incision edges).

The surface length of the major surfaces 230a and / or 230b from the main side edge 260c to the side edge 260d may be greater or less than the linear width of the body 200b due to the tapered portion 280, have. Similarly, the thickness 600a of the side edge (s) 260c, 260d may be less than the height 800 of the body 200b. Thus, cross-sectional area 700b of body 200b may be less than the product of width 900 and height 800 in some embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that reducing height 800 and / or width 900 may reduce cross-sectional area 700b in some embodiments.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that once the thickness 600a has become sufficiently small, the transition (s) between the first major surface 230c and the second major surface 230d is greater than the width of the side edges 260c, (Effective) incision edges 270e and 270f on one or both of them. In other words, the junction between the first major surface 230c and the side edge 260c may not be surgically distinguished compared to the junction between the second major surface 230d and the side edge 260c of some embodiments. Thus, the side edge 260c actually becomes or comprises the cutting edge 270e. The same bar can be applied to the side edge 260d, where the side edge 260d can be or make up a cutting edge 270f.

In at least one embodiment, the body 200b includes at least one side edge 260c, 260d having a thickness equal to or less than about 0.01 inches and a cross-sectional area 700b-less than or equal to about 0.000150 in ² / E - the ratio of the number of longitudinal incision edges. In at least one embodiment, the body 200b may have a cross-sectional height 800 greater than about 0.01 and / or at least one tapered portion 280. [ Thus, in at least one embodiment, body 200b may include a rounded and / or lenticular cross-section (or cross-sectional shape or configuration) as illustrated in Fig. 4a.

In addition, at side edge thickness 600a equal to or less than about 0.01 inches, side edge 260c may be used to create and / or provide (only) one (effective) longitudinal cutting edge 270e . Similarly, a side edge 260d having a thickness 600a equal to or less than about 0.01 inches may also be used in certain embodiments to create and / or provide (only) one (effective) longitudinal incision edge 270f can do. The body 200b with the side edges 260c and 260d having side edge thicknesses 600a less than about 0.01 inches may thus have only two effective cutting edges 270e and 270f (e.g., the body 200 and / 270b, 270c, and 270d), such as in FIG. 2, or in 200a).

In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that various cross-sectional shapes and / or configurations may be implemented in certain embodiments of the present invention. The various cross-sectional configurations may include straight, linear, curved, round, irregular, angled and / or other edges, surfaces and / or other components. By way of example, certain embodiments may include one or more tapered portions having a rounded or curved shape or configuration. Other embodiments may include one or more straight or linear tapered portions. Combinations of rounded or curved and straight or linear tapered portions are also contemplated herein. Likewise, various side edges, including wide, narrow, rounded, sharp, sharp and / or other shapes, shapes and / or configurations are contemplated herein. Combinations of various edges are also contemplated herein.

By way of example, FIGS. 5A-5H illustrate some variations of the embodiment illustrated in the above figures. 5A illustrates a body 200c having a side edge 260a, a substantially straight or linear tapered portion 280e, and a side edge 260c. Thus, the body 200c may, in some embodiments, have three effective incision edges 270a, 270b, and 270e. 5B illustrates a body 200d having a substantially curved or rounded tapered portion 280f. FIG. 5C illustrates a body 200e having a substantially straight or linear first major surface 230a and a substantially curved or rounded second major surface 230c. The body 200e (or its second major surface 230c) may thus include two tapered portions 280h. Figure 5d illustrates a body (e. G., A body having two substantially straight or linearly tapered portions 280e) 200f.

In some embodiments, one or more major surfaces, side edges, and / or effective incision edges may have an elongated configuration. By way of example, FIG. 5e illustrates a body 200g having an extended or protruding side edge 260e. The body 200g also includes two substantially straight or linear tapered portions 280g extending from the inverted tapered portion 280g and the inverted tapered portion 280g adjacent the extended or projecting side edge 260e 280e. Figure 5f illustrates a body 200h having four major surfaces 230e, 230f, 230g, and 230h. The major surfaces 230e and 230f and the major surfaces 230g and 230h are separated or separated by side edges 260a (or transitioned to or merged with the side edges). The major surfaces 230e and 230g and the major surfaces 230f and 230h are separated (or transitioned to or joined to the side edges) by the side edges 260c. Figure 5g illustrates a body 200i with four major surfaces 230i with an intervening side edge 260c. Figure 5h illustrates a body 200j having an elongated or protruding side edge 260e.

It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that size, shape, configuration, transition, and / or radius of curvature may be varied based on the needs of the physician or other user. By way of example, an exemplary body that illustrates, for example, side edge (s) 260c may alternatively include side edge (s) 260a, 260e and / or any other side Edge (s). Illustrative illustrations of particular side edges need not necessarily be limited to the illustrated side edges. Rather, any suitable combination of side edge (s), incision edge (s), major surface (s), etc. is contemplated herein. Thus, the side edge (s) that appear to correspond to dimensions less than or equal to 0.01 inches are not limited to this. Instead, such side edge (s) may alternatively include dimension (s) greater than 0.01 inches without necessarily departing from the scope of the present invention.

Figures 6A-6E illustrate various geometric cross-sectional shapes and / or configurations. By way of example, FIG. 6A illustrates a body 200k having a substantially square cross-sectional configuration. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a wide variety of quadrangle configurations may be implemented in various embodiments of the present invention. By way of example, body 200k may also or alternatively include rectangular, rhombus, trapezoidal cross-sectional configurations. Parallelograms are also contemplated herein.

Other polygonal configurations (including concave, convex, regular and irregular) are also contemplated herein, including a body 200l (FIG. 6B) with a diamond-shaped cross section, a body 200m (Fig. 6D) having a cross section and a body 200o (Fig. 6E) having a triangular cross section. It will also be appreciated that pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, and other polygonal configurations may be considered herein. In addition, the triangular configuration may include equilateral triangles, isosceles triangles, triangles, equilateral triangles, acute angles, and / or obtuse triangles.

Some embodiments may include various non-geometric, rounded, partially rounded, or other shapes, shapes, and / or configurations. By way of example, FIG. 7A illustrates a body 200p having an airfoil or teardrop cross-section or cross-sectional configuration. 7B illustrates a body 200q having a partial (e.g., half) airfoil or teardrop cross-section. 7C illustrates a body 200r having a partial (e.g., half) airfoil or teardrop cross-section. Fig. 7D illustrates a body 200s having a lens-shaped cross section. 7E illustrates a body 200t having a partial (e.g., half) lenticular cross-section. Figure 7F illustrates a body 200u having a similar (e.g., half) lenticular cross-section. However, it will be appreciated that "partial ", as used herein, may also include 1/4, 3/4, or other fractions of a complete shape or configuration.

7g illustrates a body 200v having a partial (e.g., half) conical section. Cone cones and other similar configurations are also contemplated herein. 7H illustrates a body 200w having a two-leaf section. FIG. 7I illustrates a body 200x having a three-leaf section. It will be appreciated that other multi-lobe configurations may be considered herein. 7J illustrates a body 200y having a semicircular cross section. Figure 7K illustrates a body 200z having a round cross section with one base. Figure 7l illustrates a body 200aa with a round cross section having a plurality of pedestals. 7M illustrates a body 200bb having a ninja star-shaped cross section. 7n illustrates a body 200cc having an arrowhead head section. 7O illustrates a body 200dd having a partial "yin-yang" cross-section (e.g., half yin and yang).

In addition, the various cross-sectional configurations may take the form of Arabic numerals, roman letters, other letters, or written letters. By way of example, FIG. 8A illustrates a body 200ee having a "C" shaped cross section. FIG. 8B illustrates a body 200ff having a "D" shaped cross section. 8C illustrates a body 200gg having an "L" shaped cross section. FIG. 8D illustrates a body 200hh having a "J" shaped cross section. 8E illustrates a body 200ii having a "T" shaped cross section. FIG. 8F illustrates a body 200jj having an "X" shaped cross section. 8G illustrates a body 200kk having a "V" shaped cross section.

Sectional configurations of one or more embodiments of the present invention may be uniform from the first end of the body to the second end of the body. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various cross-sectional configurations are also contemplated herein. By way of example, the tip of the body may be tapered in one or more embodiments to provide a cross-sectional configuration to the body that varies between the first end and the second end. Also, the cross-sectional configuration may vary along the length of the body without departing from the scope of the present invention. Similarly, the length of the elongated body between the first end and the second end need not be fully or substantially planar and / or linear. By way of example, variations of curves, bends, and / or other elongated shapes are also contemplated herein.

The working end of an electrosurgical electrode can be configured to provide greater flexibility in dissecting and / or cauterizing tissue and / or blood vessels in a variety of other surgical procedures. In addition, the electrode tip can be configured to achieve significantly improved performance of dissection efficiency, dramatic reduction of unintentional tissue damage, and improved post-surgical recovery. By way of example, each of the electrodes illustrated in the above figures may be formed with one or more shaped or sharp working edges. The molded working edge can further concentrate the electrical energy delivered from the electrode to the patient ' s tissue. The further concentrated electrical energy can further reduce the amount of non-functional charge loss to surrounding tissue by increasing the rate of cleavage thereby reducing the activation time and the level of thermal necrosis of tissue surrounding the cleavage site .

Similarly, each of the illustrated electrodes may be configured to have a limited thickness, height, width, and / or mass to limit the amount of latent heat or thermal energy that can accumulate on the electrode. Reducing the amount of latent heat in the electrode can also reduce the amount of latent heat transferred from the electrode to the tissue, which can reduce the amount of tissue damage caused to the tissue around the cleavage site.

Additionally, the non-tacky coating can serve to eliminate or reduce the adhesion of the tan texture to the blade, thereby reducing the occurrence of unintentional tissue damage. Non-tacky materials suitable for use as coatings may be, but are not limited to, a hybrid material or PTFE that may comprise a combination of at least one of organic and inorganic materials and provide a coated surface with desired properties, Temperature stability, flexibility and low temperature application conditions that allow the coating layer to be applied by a spray or dipping process. An example of a hybrid coating is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,502,508, entitled " Utilization of a Hybrid Material in a Surface Coating of an Electrosurgical Instrument "filed October 4, 2005, to Greep, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. No. 6,951,559.

The foregoing examples and embodiments represent exemplary embodiments and are provided for illustrative purposes only. Accordingly, the disclosed examples and embodiments are meant to illustrate one or more aspects of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Various aspects that are compatible with and / or considered within the scope of one or more embodiments of the present invention are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,496,315, 5,697,926, and 5,697,926, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 5,893,849, 6,039,735, 6,039,735, 6,066,137, 8,439,910 and 8,500,727, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention is not limited to the parameters of the products, processes, compositions, kits and / or methods, which are specifically illustrated, and these can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the invention only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Additionally, the terms "comprising", "having", "accompanying", "containing", "characterized" and variations thereof (eg, Quot ;, "comprise ", etc.) when used in this specification, including the claims, mean inclusive and / Meaning, and do not exclude, by way of example, additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, by way of example, reference to "side edges" includes one, two, or more support members.

Various aspects of the invention may be illustrated by reference to one or more embodiments. As used herein, the term "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration," and is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments described herein.

Also, in the context of any of the embodiments described herein, when a range of values (e.g., less than, greater than, at least or between a particular value or between two mentioned values) is disclosed or referred to, The scope of any specific value or value contained within the scope of the invention is likewise disclosed and is being considered herein. By way of example, 0.0004 in ² / such as E or less than a small or zero and the cross-sectional area of between 0.0004 in ² / E-to-longitudinal ratio in the direction of the incision can edge is illustratively ^{(i) 0.0001 in 2 / E} , 0.00025 in 2 ^{/ E, 0.000399 in 2 / E} , 0.0004 in 2 / E or 0 and 0.0004 in ² / E random cross-section of another value between-to-ratio of the longitudinal incision can edge and / or (ii) 0.00001 in ² / E and 0.00035 in ² / E, between 0.0002 in ² / E and 0.0003 in ² / E, between 0.00025 in ² / E and 0.000275 in ² / E and / or between 0 and 0.0004 in ² / To the number of cross-section-to-longitudinal incision edges in the range of.

Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. A number of methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present invention and only preferred materials and methods are described herein.

While various aspects and embodiments are disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to be limiting. It should be understood that the products, processes, compositions, kits, and methods according to particular embodiments of the present invention may have the features, features, components, elements, and / or elements described in other embodiments disclosed and / It can be included in other ways. Accordingly, references to particular features in connection with one embodiment should not be construed as limiting the application to the embodiments described above. In addition, various embodiments may be combined to form additional embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention or the present disclosure.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It will be apparent that various modifications of the disclosed articles, processes, compositions, kits, and methods may be made. All changes coming within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily observe all modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (1)

An electrosurgical electrode configured for use in performing an electrosurgical surgical procedure.

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