Patent ID: 6458130
Filing Date: 2002-10-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A bipolar endoscopic forceps, comprising:first and second jaw members pivotally attached in opposing relation relative to one another, each of said jaw members including a flange which extends therefrom and said jaw members being relatively movable from a first open position wherein said jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second clamping position wherein said jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween; a drive rod assembly adapted for connecting said jaw members to a source of electrical energy such that said first jaw member has a first electrical potential and said second jaw member has a second electrical potential and said jaw members are capable of conducting bipolar energy through the tissue held therebetween; a yoke member attached to a distal end of said drive rod assembly and attached between said jaw members, said yoke member and said jaw members having a cam follower mechanical linkage wherein movement of said yoke member imparts movement of said jaw members from said first and second positions; a pair of shoulder portions attached to said yoke member which are dimensioned to abut said flanges of said jaw members when said jaw members are moved into said second position to relieve shear stresses on said cam follower mechanical linkage during clamping and sealing of the tissue; a handle attached to said drive rod assembly for imparting movement to said yoke member; and at least one stop member attached to at least one of said jaw members.