Patent ID: 7857812
Filing Date: 2010-12-28
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An endoscopic bipolar forceps, comprising; a shaft having a movable jaw member and a fixed jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof; a drive assembly which moves the movable jaw member relative to the fixed jaw member from a first position wherein the movable jaw member is disposed in spaced relation relative to the fixed jaw member to a second position wherein the movable jaw member is closer to the fixed jaw member for manipulating tissue; a movable handle which actuates the drive assembly to move the movable jaw member, the movable handle being movable from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in the corresponding first position to a second position wherein the jaw members are disposed in the second corresponding position closer to the fixed jaw member; each jaw member being adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal; a trigger assembly operatively disposed relative to the movable handle for selectively advancing a knife assembly for cutting tissue along the tissue seal, the trigger assembly including a safety mechanism which operatively cooperates with the movable handle such that the trigger assembly automatically moves from a retracted position when the movable handle is moved to the second position.