Patent Publication Number: US-8968307-B2

Title: Surgical forceps

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates to a surgical forceps and, more particularly, to a surgical forceps for sealing and/or cutting tissue. 
     2. Background of Related Art 
     A forceps is a plier-like instrument which relies on mechanical action between its jaws to grasp, clamp and constrict vessels or tissue. Electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to affect hemostasis by heating tissue and blood vessels to coagulate and/or cauterize tissue. Certain surgical procedures require more than simply cauterizing tissue and rely on the unique combination of clamping pressure, precise electrosurgical energy control and gap distance (i.e., distance between opposing jaw members when closed about tissue) to “seal” tissue, vessels and certain vascular bundles. Typically, once a vessel is sealed, the surgeon has to accurately sever the vessel along the newly formed tissue seal. Accordingly, many vessel sealing instruments have been designed which incorporate a knife or blade member which effectively severs the tissue after forming a tissue seal. 
     Generally, surgical instruments, including forceps, can be classified as single-use instruments, e.g., instruments that are discarded after a single use, partially-reusable instruments, e.g., instruments including both replaceable portions and portions that are sterilizable for reuse, and completely reusable instruments, e.g., instruments that are completely sterilizable for repeated use. As can be appreciated, those instruments (or components of instruments) that can be sterilized and reused help reduce the costs associated with the particular surgical procedure for which they are used. However, although reusable surgical instruments and surgical instruments with replaceable components are cost-effective, it is important that these instruments be capable of performing the same functions as their single-use counterparts and that any replaceable components of these instruments be removable and replaceable with new components efficiently and easily. 
     SUMMARY 
     In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a forceps is provided. The forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members. One (or both) of the first and second jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One (or both) of the jaw members includes a longitudinally-extending blade channel defined therein. An electrical cutting insert is releasably engageable within the blade channel of the jaw member such that the jaw member is transitionable between a mechanical cutting mode and an electrical cutting mode. In the mechanical cutting mode, the electrical cutting insert is disengaged from the jaw member to permit reciprocation of a knife blade through the blade channel for mechanically cutting tissue grasped between the jaw members. In the electrical cutting mode, the electrical cutting insert is engaged within the blade channel of the jaw member for electrically cutting tissue grasped between the jaw members. 
     In one embodiment, an electrical connection member is provided. The electrical connection member is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy and is configured to extend into the jaw member. The electrical connection member includes a first contact point electrically coupled to the jaw member for selectively supplying energy to the jaw member. 
     In another embodiment, the jaw member includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate. The tissue sealing plate is adapted to connect to the source of electrosurgical energy, e.g., via the electrical connection member. More specifically, the tissue sealing plate may include a finger configured to extend into the jaw member. The finger is configured to electrically couple to the first contact point of the electrical connection member. 
     In another embodiment, the electrical connection member includes a second contact point configured to electrically couple to the electrical cutting insert when the jaw member is disposed in the electrical cutting mode for selectively supplying energy to the electrical cutting insert. The electrical cutting insert may similarly include a finger configured to extend into the jaw member. The finger is configured to electrically couple to the second contact point. 
     In yet another embodiment, the electrical connection member is configured to independently supply energy to the jaw member and the electrical cutting insert, e.g., via the first and second contact points, respectively. The electrical connection member may be a flex circuit. 
     In still another embodiment, the electrical cutting insert is configured to snap-fit into engagement within the blade channel of the jaw member. 
     A method of using a forceps is also provided in accordance with the present disclosure. The method includes providing an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members. One (or both) of the first and second jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One (or both) of the jaw members includes a longitudinally-extending blade channel defined therein. The method further includes selecting a mode of operation for the forceps, e.g., selecting between a mechanical cutting mode and an electrical cutting mode. If the electrical cutting mode is selected, an electrical cutting insert is engaged within the blade channel of the jaw member. 
     In one embodiment, the method further includes grasping tissue between the first and second jaw members. Energy may then be conducted between the jaw members to seal tissue grasped between the jaw members. 
     In another embodiment, one (or both) of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy for sealing tissue grasped between the jaw members. 
     In yet another embodiment, in the mechanical cutting mode, the method further includes translating a knife blade longitudinally through the blade channel to cut tissue grasped between the jaw members. On the other hand, in the electrical cutting mode, the method further includes energizing the electrical cutting insert to electrically cut tissue grasped between the jaw members. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a front, perspective view of a surgical forceps configured for use in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a front, perspective view of an end effector assembly configured for use with the forceps of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a front, perspective view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  with parts separated to show the pivotable connection between first and second jaw members of the end effector assembly; 
         FIG. 5  is a front, perspective view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  wherein first and second replaceable components of the first and second jaw members, respectively, have been removed; 
         FIG. 6A  is a front, perspective view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  wherein the first and second replaceable components of the first and second jaw members, respectively, are shown with parts separated; 
         FIG. 6B  is a front, perspective view of one of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  wherein the jaw member is shown with parts separated; 
         FIG. 7  is a front, perspective view of one of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  shown in a mechanical cutting mode; 
         FIG. 8A  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  with the jaw members disposed in a spaced-apart position; 
         FIG. 8B  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  with the jaw members disposed in an approximated position and with a knife blade disposed in a retracted position; 
         FIG. 8C  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  with the jaw members disposed in an approximated position and with a knife blade disposed in an extended position; 
         FIG. 9A  is a front, perspective view of one of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 2  including an electrical cutting insert configured for positioning therein; 
         FIG. 9B  is a front, perspective view of the jaw member of  FIG. 9A  shown in an electrical cutting mode; 
         FIG. 10  is a front, perspective view of another embodiment of an end effector assembly configured for use with the forceps of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11A  is a front, perspective view of one of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 10  shown with parts separated; 
         FIG. 11B  is a front, perspective view of the other jaw member of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 10  shown with parts separated; 
         FIG. 12  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of one of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 13A  is a rear, perspective view of one of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 10  shown in an assembled condition in an electrical cutting mode; and 
         FIG. 13B  is a front, perspective view of the other jaw member of the end effector assembly of  FIG. 10  shown in an assembled condition in an electrical cutting mode. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawing figures wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements. As used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion that is being described which is further from a user, while the term “proximal” refers to the portion that is being described which is closer to a user. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a forceps  10  for use in connection with endoscopic surgical procedures is shown, although forceps  10  may also be configured for use in connection with traditional open surgical procedures. Forceps  10  defines a longitudinal axis “A-A” and includes a housing  20 , a handle assembly  30 , a rotating assembly  70 , a trigger assembly  80  and an end effector assembly  100 . End effector assembly  100  includes first and second jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, configured to pivot relative to one another between a spaced-apart position ( FIG. 1 ) and an approximated position ( FIG. 8B ) for grasping tissue therebetween. Forceps  10  further includes a shaft  12  having a distal end  14  configured to mechanically engage end effector assembly  100  and a proximal end  16  that mechanically engages housing  20 . Forceps  10  also includes an electrosurgical cable  310  that connects forceps  10  to a generator (not shown) or other suitable power source, although forceps  10  may alternatively be configured as a battery powered instrument. Cable  310  includes a wire (or wires) (not explicitly shown) extending therethrough and into housing  20  to ultimately connect the source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown) to jaw member  110  and/or jaw member  120  of end effector assembly  100 , as will be described in greater detail below. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 1 , handle assembly  30  includes a fixed handle  50  and a moveable handle  40 . Fixed handle  50  is integrally associated with housing  20  and handle  40  is moveable relative to fixed handle  50 . Rotating assembly  70  is rotatable in either direction about a longitudinal axis “A-A” to rotate end effector  100  about longitudinal axis “A-A.” The housing  20  houses the internal working components of the forceps  10 . 
     Referring momentarily to  FIG. 2 , end effector assembly  100  is shown attached at a distal end  14  of shaft  12  and includes a pair of opposing jaw members  110  and  120 . Each of the first and second jaw members  110 ,  120  includes a fixed jaw frame  112 ,  122 , respectively, and a replaceable component  210 ,  220 , respectively, selectively engageable with the respective jaw frame  112 ,  122  to form the fully assembled jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively. However, jaw members  110 ,  120  of end effector assembly  100  may also be configured as integral components, e.g., wherein components  210 ,  220  are fixedly engaged to jaw frames  112 ,  122  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively. 
     End effector assembly  100 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , is designed as a unilateral assembly, i.e., where jaw member  120  is fixed relative to shaft  12  and jaw member  110  is moveable relative to both shaft  12  and fixed jaw member  120 . However, end effector assembly  100  may alternatively be configured as a bilateral assembly, i.e., where both jaw member  110  and jaw member  120  are moveable relative to one another and with respect to shaft  12 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 2 , each jaw member  110 ,  120  or, more particularly, the replaceable component  210 ,  220  of each jaw member  110 ,  120 , respectively, includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate  216 ,  226  disposed thereon. Tissue sealing plates  216 ,  226  are positioned on jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to define opposed tissue sealing surfaces for grasping and sealing tissue between jaw members  110 ,  120 , as best shown in  FIG. 2 , and as will be described in greater detail below. In some embodiments, a knife assembly  180  (see  FIGS. 8A-8C ) is disposed within shaft  12  and a knife channel  215 ,  225  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) is defined within one or both of tissue sealing plates  216 ,  226 , of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to permit reciprocation of a knife blade  182  (see  FIGS. 8A-8C ) therethrough for mechanically cutting tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . In such an embodiment, trigger  82  of trigger assembly  80  is operable to advance the knife blade  182  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) between a retracted position (see  FIGS. 8A-8B ), wherein knife blade  182  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) is disposed within shaft  12 , and an extended position (see  FIG. 8C ), wherein knife blade  182  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) extends between jaw members  110 ,  120  to cut tissue grasped therebetween. Alternatively, end effector assembly  100  may be adapted for electrical cutting via an electrical cutting insert  190 , thus obviating the need for knife assembly  180  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ). Further, end effector assembly  100  may be adapted for both mechanical cutting and electrical cutting, thus allowing a user to select a mode of operation best suited for the particular surgical procedure to be performed. End effector assembly  100 , including the various modes of operation and assembly thereof, will be described in greater detail below. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , moveable handle  40  of handle assembly  30  is ultimately connected to a drive assembly (not shown) that, together, mechanically cooperate to impart movement of jaw members  110  and  120  between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to grasp tissue between sealing plates  216  and  226  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 1 , moveable handle  40  is initially spaced-apart from fixed handle  50  and, correspondingly, jaw members  110 ,  120  are disposed in the spaced-apart position. Moveable handle  40  is depressible from this initial position to a depressed position corresponding to the approximated position of jaw members  110 ,  120  (see  FIG. 8B ). 
     Continuing with reference to  FIG. 1 , in conjunction with  FIGS. 2-4 , and as mentioned above, jaw members  110 ,  120  of end effector assembly  100  each include a respective jaw frame  112 ,  122 . Each jaw frame  112 ,  122  is monolithically formed as a single component and includes a proximal base  113 ,  123 , respectively, and a distal portion  114 ,  124 , respectively, extending from the respective proximal base  113 ,  123 . Distal portions  114 ,  124 , of jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, are configured to receive replaceable components  210 ,  220 , respectively, thereon, as will be described in greater detail below. Further, distal portion  124  of jaw frame  122  includes a longitudinally-extending recess  142  configured to receive an electrical connection member, e.g., a flex circuit  140 , therein. Distal portion  114  of jaw frame  112  may similarly include a recess (not shown) defined therein that is configured to receive a flex circuit  150 , or other electrical connection member, although only one of jaw frames  112 ,  122  need include a flex circuit  150 ,  140  disposed thereon. Flex circuits  150 ,  140  of jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, as will be described in greater detail below, extend proximally into shaft  12 , ultimately coupling to a source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly show) for supplying energy to jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively. However, any other suitable electrical connection member(s) for supplying energy to jaw member  110  and/or jaw member  120  may also be provided. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 1-4 , and in particular to  FIG. 4 , proximal base  123  of jaw frame  122  includes a pair of spaced apart flags  125  and a proximal connector  134  disposed at the proximal ends  136  of flags  125 . Proximal connector  134  is fixedly engaged to shaft  12 , thereby fixing jaw member  120  in position relative to shaft  12 . Flags  125  are substantially similar to one another and each include an aperture  126  defined therethrough and a longitudinally-extending slot  127  defined therethrough. Apertures  126  are transversely-aligned with one another and are longitudinally-aligned with slots  127 , although apertures  126  may be positioned in other configurations, e.g., offset relative to slots  127 . Slots  127  are likewise transversely aligned with one another and extend in a substantially parallel orientation relative to longitudinal axis “A-A.” Slots  127  may be centered relative to longitudinal axis “A-A,” or may be offset relative to longitudinal axis “A-A” (e.g., above or below longitudinal axis “A-A”). 
     Proximal base  113  of jaw frame  112 , similar to proximal base  123  of jaw frame  122 , includes a pair of spaced-apart flags  115 . Flags  125  of proximal base  123  of jaw frame  122 , however, are spaced further apart from one another relative to flags  115  of proximal base  113  of jaw frame  112 , such that proximal base  113  of jaw frame  112  is positionable within proximal base  123  of jaw frame  122 , e.g., such that flags  115  of jaw frame  112  are positionable between flags  123  of jaw frame  122 . This configuration may be reversed, or flags  115  jaw frame  112  and flags  125  of jaw frame  122  may alternatively be spaced-apart a similar distance and may be offset relative to one another. Flags  115  of jaw frame  112  each also include an aperture  116  defined therein and a longitudinally-extending slot  117  defined therethrough. Apertures  116  are transversely aligned with one another and are configured to align with apertures  126  of flags  125  of proximal base  123  of jaw frame  122 . Slots  117 , on the other hand, are aligned with one another, but are disposed at an oblique angle relative to slots  127  of proximal base  123  of jaw frame  122  and, thus with respect to longitudinal axis “A-A.” Slots  117  may alternatively define a splined, or curvate configuration. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 1-4 , during assembly, with flags  115  of jaw frame  112  disposed between flags  125  of jaw frame  122 , a pivot pin  102  is inserted through each pair of apertures  116  and  126  of jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, to pivotably engage jaw frames  112 ,  122  to one another. Thus, with proximal connector  134  of jaw frame  122  engaging jaw frame  122  to shaft  12 , the engagement between pivot pin  102  and apertures  116 ,  126  of jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, permits jaw frame  112  to pivot relative to jaw frame  122  and, thus, shaft  12 , between the spaced-apart position ( FIG. 2 ) and the approximated position ( FIG. 8B ). 
     As best shown in  FIG. 4 , a drive bar  130  is provided for selectively pivoting jaw frames  112 ,  122  between the spaced-apart position and the approximated position. Drive bar  130  extends from end effector assembly  100  proximally through shaft  12 , ultimately coupling to the drive assembly (not explicitly shown) that, in turn, is coupled to handle assembly  30 . More specifically, moveable handle  40  of handle assembly  30  is depressible from the initial position to the depressed position to translate drive bar  130  proximally through shaft  12  relative to end effector assembly  100 , i.e., towards handle assembly  30 . On the other hand, when moveable handle  40  is released, or moved back to the initial position, drive bar  130  is translated distally through shaft  12  relative to end effector assembly  100 , i.e., towards end effector assembly  100 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 4 , drive bar  130  includes a distal aperture  132  defined therethrough. During assembly, distal aperture  132  of drive bar  130  is aligned with slots  117  of flags  115  of jaw frame  112  and slots  127  of flags  125  of jaw frame  122  and a pin  104  is inserted therethrough, thereby coupling drive bar  130  to jaw frames  112 ,  122 . Thus, as drive bar  130  is translated proximally, e.g., upon depression of moveable handle  40  relative to fixed handle  50 , pin  104  is likewise translated proximally along slots  117  of flags  115  of jaw frame  112  and slots  127  of flags  125  of jaw frame  122 . Since slots  117  of flags  115  of jaw frame  112  are disposed at an oblique angle relative to slots  127  of flags  125  of jaw frame  122 , distal translation of pin  104  urges jaw frame  112  to pivot about pivot pin  102  relative to jaw frame  122  from the spaced-apart position toward the approximated position. On the other hand, when drive bar  130  is translated distally, e.g., when moveable handle  40  is released, pin  104  is translated distally along slots  117 ,  127  to urge jaw frame  112  to pivot about pivot pin  102  relative to jaw frame  122  from the approximated position back to the spaced-apart position. As can be appreciated, the double-flagged configuration of jaw frames  112 ,  122  and the double pin configuration of end effector assembly  100  both help provide structural stability and support to end effector assembly  100  as jaw members  110 ,  120  are moved between the spaced-apart and approximated positions and as jaw members  110 ,  120  are retained in either the spaced-apart or approximated position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4-5 , flex circuit  140  of jaw member  120  will be described. Flex circuit  150  of jaw member  110  is substantially similar to flex circuit of jaw member  120  and, thus, will not be substantially described herein for purposes of brevity. Further, as mentioned above, although each of jaw members  110 ,  120  is shown including a flex circuit  150 ,  140 , respectively, only one of jaw members  110 ,  120  need include a flex circuit  150 ,  140 , respectively. Flex circuit  140 , as best shown in  FIG. 4 , defines a generally flat, elongated configuration having a distal segment  143 , an intermediate segment  144  and a proximal segment  145 . Flex circuit  140  may be formed from a flexible material, e.g., a flexible polymer, allowing flex circuit  140  to be bent in a vertical direction without effecting the operation of flex circuit  140 . Further, intermediate segment  144  of flex circuit  140 , which is disposed adjacent the pivot point of jaw members  110 ,  120 , may include one or more flex members  146  configured to facilitate flexing of flex circuit  140  upon movement of jaw members  110 ,  120  between the spaced-apart and approximated positions. Such a feature is particularly advantageous in embodiments where end effector assembly  100  is defined as a bilateral assembly, e.g., where both jaw members  110 ,  120  are moveable relative to shaft  12 , or in unilateral embodiments where jaw member  120  is the moveable jaw member. As can be appreciated, flex circuit  150  also includes a distal segment  153 , an intermediate segment  154  and a proximal segment  155 . Intermediate segment  154  of flex circuit  150  of jaw member  110  likewise includes flex members  156  to facilitate flexing of flex circuit  150  as jaw member  110  is moved relative to jaw member  120  between the spaced-apart and approximated positions. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 4-5 , flex circuit  140  is substantially encased within an insulative covering  147 . However, flex circuit  140  includes one or more exposed electrical contacts, e.g., first electrical contact  148  and second electrical contact  149 , disposed on distal segment  143  thereof for electrically coupling to tissue sealing plate  226  and/or electrical cutting insert  190 , as will be described in greater detail below. Proximal segment  145  of flex circuit  140  may be adhered, laser-welded, or otherwise secured within recess  142  of jaw frame  122  with first and second electrical contacts  148 ,  149 , respectively, facing upwardly therefrom, as shown in  FIG. 5 . Flexible circuit  140  may also be releasably secured within recess  142  of jaw frame  122 , such that flexible circuit  140  may be replaced or interchanged with new and/or different flex circuits  140 . For example, it may be desirable to select a different flex circuit  140 , e.g., a flex circuit having greater or fewer electrical contacts or electrical contacts disposed in different positions, depending on the particular procedure to be performed or the particular configuration of the replaceable component  220  to be secured to jaw frame  122 . Distal segment  143  of flexible circuit  140  may be releasably couplable to intermediate segment  144  of flexible circuit  140  to permit replacement of distal segment  143 , or, alternatively, the entire flexible circuit  140  may be replaceable. As can be appreciated, the flexible configuration of flex circuit  140  (and flex circuit  150 ) facilitates installation, removal and replacement of flex circuit  140  from jaw frame  122  of end effector assembly  100 . 
     Proximal segment  145  of flex circuit  140  is configured to extend proximally from jaw frame  122  of jaw member  120  into shaft  12 , ultimately coupling to cable  310  ( FIG. 1 ) which, in turn, is coupled to a source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown), or coupling to the battery (not shown) disposed within housing  20 , in embodiments where forceps  10  is a battery-powered device. Further, proximal segment  145  may extend completely through shaft  12  and into housing  20  ( FIG. 1 ), or may extend only partially into shaft  12 . In either configuration, proximal segment  145  may be releasably couplable to the source of electrosurgical energy, e.g., via the wire(s) (not explicitly shown) of cable  310  ( FIG. 1 ), to permit replacement of flex circuit  140 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5-6B , as mentioned above, jaw members  110 ,  120  of end effector assembly  100  each include a replaceable component  210 ,  220 , respectively, that is releasably engageable with the respective jaw frame  112 ,  122 . Replaceable components  210 ,  220  are removable from jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, and are replaceable with new replaceable components  210 ,  220 , e.g., replaceable components  210 ,  220  may be configured to be discarded and replaced after a single use (or a single procedure), while the remaining components of forceps  10  may be formed from a sterilizable material such that they may be sterilized, e.g., placed in an autoclave (not shown), after each procedure for repeated use. Alternatively, the remaining components of forceps  10  may likewise be replaceable and/or disposable. For example, flex circuits  150 ,  140  of jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, as mentioned above, may be configured to be replaced after each use, or a particular flex circuit  150 ,  140  may be selected for use in accordance with the particular surgical procedure to be performed. In either embodiment, e.g., where replaceable components  210 ,  220  and/or flex circuits  150 ,  140  are disposable or reusable, the ability to interchange the components of end effector assembly  100  is advantageous in that the user may select the components for use with forceps  10  that are best suited for the particular procedure to be performed, without requiring an entirely new surgical instrument. Further, as can be appreciated, requiring only a new set of replaceable components  210 ,  220  (and/or flex circuits  150 ,  140 ), rather than an entire new surgical instrument, helps reduce the equipment costs associated with performing a particular surgical procedure. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 5-6B , replaceable components  210 ,  220  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, each include an outer jaw housing  214 ,  224 , an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate  216 ,  226 , and an insulator  218 ,  228  configured to electrically isolate tissue sealing plates  216 ,  226  from outer jaw housings  214 ,  224 , respectively. Further, one (or both) of replaceable components  210 ,  220 , e.g., replaceable component  220 , may include an electrical cutting insert  190  releasably engageable therewith, while the other replaceable component  210 ,  220 , e.g., replaceable component  210 , may include an insulting insert  198  (see  FIG. 2 ) releasably engageable therewith, as will be described in greater detail below. Other configurations are also contemplated, e.g., where electrical cutting insert  190  is fixed within replaceable component  220  and/or where insulting insert  198  (see  FIG. 2 ) is fixed within replaceable component  210 . The subcomponents of replaceable components  210 ,  220  are substantially similar and, thus, only those subcomponents of replaceable component  220  and the differences between replaceable components  210 ,  220  will be described herein for purposes of brevity. 
     Outer jaw housing  224  of replaceable component  220  is configured to house insulator  228  therein and to engage tissue sealing plate  226  thereon. In particular, outer jaw housing  224  defines an internal passageway  224   a  configured to receive insulator  228  therein and an outer channel  224   b  extending about the outer periphery of internal passageway  224   a  that is configured to receive a portion of tissue sealing plate  226  therein. More specifically, outer jaw housing  224  includes a series of alternating tabs  224   c  and recesses  224   d  on an internal surface thereof that defines internal passageway  224   a . Likewise, insulator  228  includes a series of complementary alternating tabs  228   a  and recesses  228   b  on an outer periphery thereof such that, upon insertion of insulator  228  into internal passageway  224   a  of outer jaw housing  224 , tabs  224   c ,  228   a  and recesses  224   d ,  228   b , engage one another to inhibit substantial movement of insulator  228  relative to jaw housing  224 . Alternatively, insulator  228  may be overmolded within jaw housing  224  to define complementary tabs  228   a  and recesses  228   b  as a result of the tabs  224   c  and recesses  224   d  formed within jaw housing  224 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 6A-6B , outer channel  224   b  of outer jaw housing  224  includes a plurality of spaced-apart slots  224   e , each of which is configured to receive a downwardly extending flange  226   a  of tissue sealing plate  226 . Downwardly-extending flanges  226   a  of tissue sealing plate  226  may taper from the free ends to the fixed ends thereof, as best shown in  FIG. 6A , such that flanges  226   a  are resiliently compressed upon insertion into slots  224   e  and “snap” into engagement therewith to secure tissue sealing plate  226  about outer jaw housing  224 , although overmolding is also contemplated. Further, in the assembled condition of replaceable component  220 , distal finger  226   b  of tissue sealing plate  226 , which projects downwardly from tissue sealing plate  226 , extends through longitudinal channel  228   c  of insulator  228  and internal passageway  224   a  of outer jaw housing  224 , the importance of which will be described below. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 6A-6B , with insulator  228  disposed within outer jaw housing  224  and with tissue sealing plate  226  secured thereto, longitudinal channel  228   c  defined within insulator  228  and blade channel  226   c  defined within tissue sealing plate  226  are substantially aligned with one another to form blade channel  225  (see  FIGS. 8A-8C ). Such a configuration permits, in a mechanical cutting mode of forceps  10 , reciprocation of knife blade  182  (see  FIGS. 8A-8C ) through blade channel  125  of jaw member  120  (and/or blade channel  115  of jaw member  110 ) (see  FIGS. 8A-8C ) for cutting tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 , as will be described in greater detail below. Outer jaw housing  224  also includes a shelf  224   f  disposed within internal passageway  224   a  that has one or more engagement features  224   g  configured to receive corresponding engagement features  192  extending from electrical cutting insert  190 . Engagement features  192  may be in the form of tapered tabs, similar to those discussed above with respect to tissue sealing plate  226 , such that corresponding tabs  192  of electrical cutting insert  190  may be snap-fittingly engageable with engagement features, or slots  224   g  of shelf  224   f  of outer jaw housing  224  to releasably secure electrical cutting insert  190  within longitudinal channel  228   c  of insulator  228  and blade channel  226   c  of tissue sealing plate  226 . Alternatively, in embodiments where electrical cutting insert  190  is fixed jaw housing  224 , electrical cutting insert  190  may be fixed therein via overmolding. Electrical cutting insert  190  is formed at least partially from an electrically conductive material and is configured to be positioned within and to extend at least partially from blade channel  226   c  of tissue sealing plate  226 , for use in an electrical cutting mode of forceps  10 . Further, similar to distal finger  226   b  of tissue sealing plate  226 , proximal finger  194  of electrical cutting insert  190 , which projects downwardly from electrical cutting insert  190 , extends through longitudinal channel  228   c  of insulator  228  and internal passageway  224   a  of outer jaw housing  224 , the importance of which will be described below. 
     Replaceable component  210  of jaw member  110 , as mentioned above, and as shown in  FIG. 6A , similarly includes an outer jaw housing  214 , an insulator  218 , and a tissue sealing plate  216 . Insulator  218  of replaceable component  210  may include a longitudinal channel (not explicitly shown) defined therethrough and tissue sealing plate  216  of replaceable component  210  may include a blade channel (not explicitly shown) defined therethrough that cooperate to form blade channel  215  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ). As mentioned above, blade channel  215  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) of replaceable component  210  may cooperate with blade channel  225  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) of replaceable component  220  to permit reciprocation of knife blade  182  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) therethrough, or, alternatively, one of jaw members  110 ,  120 , e.g., jaw member  110 , may define a continuous tissue sealing plate  216  such that knife blade  182  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) extends through only one of jaw members  110 ,  120 , e.g., jaw member  120 . Additionally, an electrical cutting insert  190  may be engaged within either or both of jaw members  110 ,  120 , similarly as described about with respect to jaw member  120 , or may be engaged within only one of jaw members  110 ,  120 , e.g., jaw member  120 , while the other jaw member, e.g., jaw member  110 , defines a continuous tissue sealing plate or includes an insulating insert  198  (see  FIG. 2 ) disposed within the blade channel  215  ( FIGS. 8A-8C ) thereof. 
     Turning back to  FIG. 5 , replaceable components  210 ,  220  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, are slidably positionable about jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, to secure replaceable components  210 ,  220  thereon. More specifically, jaw frames  112 ,  122  each include a pair of lateral wings  118 ,  128 , respectively, that are slidably received within longitudinal groove  214   h  of outer jaw housing  214  of replaceable component  210  and a longitudinal groove (not shown), similar to longitudinal groove  214   h , defined within outer jaw housing  224  of replaceable component  220 , respectively, as replaceable components  210 ,  220  are slid proximally over jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. Outer jaw housings  214 ,  224  each further include a pair of tangs  214   i ,  224   i , respectively, disposed on opposite sides thereof that are configured to engage complementary stops  119 ,  129 , respectively, disposed on opposite sides of jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, e.g., in snap-fit engagement therewith, to secure replaceable components  210 ,  220  about jaw frames  112 ,  122 . More particularly, as best shown in  FIG. 5 , outer jaw housings  214 ,  224  of replaceable components  210 ,  220 , respectively, each include a pair of tangs  214   i ,  224   i , respectively, that are configured to engage complementary stops  119 ,  129 , respectively, defined on respective jaw frames  112 ,  122 . Upon slidable positioning of replaceable components  210 ,  220  about jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, tangs  214   i ,  224   i  are flexed outwardly about stops  119 ,  129 , respectively, and snap into engagement therewith to secure replaceable components  210 ,  220  on jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. Alternatively, any other suitable engagement member(s) or engagement mechanisms may be provided. 
     Continuing with reference to  FIG. 5 , tangs  214   i ,  224   i  of outer jaw housings  214 ,  224  of replaceable components  210 ,  220 , respectively, may be configured to transition between a new state and a used state upon the initial use of replaceable components  210 ,  220 , ensuring that replaceable components  210 ,  220  are single-use only components. In the new state, replaceable components  210 ,  220  may be engaged to jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, e.g., in the new state, tangs  214   i ,  224   i  and stops  119 ,  129 , respectively, define complementary configurations. However, in the used state, replaceable components  210 ,  220  are inhibited from being engaged to jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, e.g., in the used state, tangs  214   i ,  224   i , are rendered incompatible with stops  119 ,  129 , respectively. In particular, tangs  214   i ,  224   i  may be altered, or deformed upon engagement with stops  119 ,  129 , respectively, e.g., upon engagement of replaceable components  210 ,  220  with respective jaw frames  112 ,  122 , to inhibit repeated engagement of replaceable components  210 ,  220  with jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. For example, as tangs  214   i ,  224   i  are flexed laterally about stops  119 ,  129  during slidable positioning of replaceable components  210 ,  220  about jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, tangs  214   i ,  224   i  may be bent, cracked, snapped, or otherwise uni-directionally destroyed, e.g., a portion or portions thereof may be mechanically altered, such that tangs  214   i ,  224   i  are capable of sufficiently securing replaceable components  210 ,  220  about jaw frames  112 ,  122 , but are inhibited from being re-engaged to stops  119 ,  129 , respectively. Tangs  214   i ,  224   i , may alternatively be similarly bent, cracked, snapped, or otherwise uni-directionally destroyed as tangs  214   i ,  224   i , are flexed laterally outwardly during disengagement of replaceable components  210 ,  220  from jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, thus transitioning replaceable components  210 ,  220  from the new state to the used state upon disengagement from jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. In either embodiment, as can be appreciated, reuse of replaceable components  210 ,  220  is substantially inhibited in that once removed, replaceable components  210 ,  220  would no longer be capable of being re-engaged to jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. Further, tangs  214   i ,  224   i  may otherwise be electrically or electro-mechanically altered in any other suitable fashion to prevent re-use of replaceable components  210 ,  220 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 5 , replaceable components  210 ,  220  may alternatively be configured to transition from the new state to the used state upon use of forceps  10 . More specifically, as will be described in greater detail below, and as mentioned above, jaw members  110 ,  120  are adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown) for conducting energy through tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120  to effect a tissue seal. As can be appreciated, a certain amount of heat is created during the tissue sealing process. As such, tangs  214   i ,  224   i , of replaceable components  210 ,  220 , respectively, may be formed at least partially of a relatively low-melting point material such that the heat created during the tissue sealing process is sufficient to alter a portion of tangs  214   i ,  224   i , thereby transitioning tangs  214   i ,  224   i  from the new state to the used state. Thus, after the initial tissue sealing process, replaceable components  210 ,  220  are rendered incapable of being re-engaged to jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. More particularly, tangs  214   i ,  224   i  may melt into an altered or non-compatible configuration, or may include a fusible linkage (not explicitly shown) that melts in order to transition tangs  214   i ,  224   i  into a non-compatible configuration in order to transition replaceable components  210 ,  220  from the new state to the used state. Other one-way features configured to transition replaceable components  210 ,  220  from a new state to a used state may alternatively or additionally be provided. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1-2  and  7 - 9 B, the use and operation of forceps  10  will be described. Initially, as described above, flex circuits  150 ,  140  are coupled to a source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown) and are positioned within jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively. Next, replaceable components  210 ,  220  are assembled, as discussed above, and are engaged on respective jaw frames  112 ,  122  of jaw members  110 ,  120 . More specifically, as replaceable components  210 ,  220  are slid proximally about jaw frames  112 ,  122  into engagement thereon, distal fingers  216   b ,  226   b  of tissue sealing plates  216 ,  226 , respectively, are translated into position adjacent the first electrical contacts of flex circuits  150 ,  140 , respectively, e.g., distal finger  226   b  is translated into contact with first contact  148  of flex circuits  140  (and similarly with regard to the corresponding components of tissue sealing plate  216  and flex circuit  150 ), such that tissue sealing plates  216 ,  226 , are electrically coupled to flex circuits  150 ,  140 , respectively. Fingers  216   b ,  226   b  of tissue sealing plates  216 ,  226 , respectively, may be configured to be resiliently deflected upon engagement of replaceable components  210 ,  220  and jaw frames  112 ,  122  such that fingers  216   b ,  226   b  are resiliently biased into contact with flex circuits  150 ,  140 , respectively, ensuring electrical coupling therebetween. As can be appreciated, this configuration permits electrosurgical energy to be supplied to tissue sealing plate  216  and/or tissue sealing plate  226  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to seal tissue grasped therebetween. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 1 ,  7  and  8 A- 8 C, at this point, blade channels  215 ,  225  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, remain empty, or unfilled. This configuration corresponds to the mechanical cutting mode of forceps  10 . In use, as shown in  FIG. 8A , with jaw members  110 ,  120  disposed in the spaced-apart position, end effector assembly  100  is maneuvered into position such that tissue to be grasped, sealed, and or cut, is disposed between jaw members  110 ,  120 . Next, moveable handle  40  is pulled proximally relative to fixed handle  50  such that jaw member  110  is pivoted relative to jaw member  120  from the spaced-apart position to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween (see  FIG. 8B ). Thereafter, electrosurgical energy may be supplied, e.g., via activation of actuator  92 , to tissue sealing plate  216  and/or tissue sealing plate  226  (e.g., via flex circuits  150 ,  140 , respectively) and conducted through tissue to effect a tissue seal. As shown in  FIG. 8C , knife blade  182  may then be advanced from the retracted position ( FIG. 8B ) to the extended position ( FIG. 8C ), e.g., via activation of trigger  82 , and through blade channels  215 ,  225  jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to cut the previously sealed tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . 
     On the other hand, as shown in  FIGS. 1-2  and  9 A- 9 B, forceps  10  may alternatively be used for grasping, sealing and/or cutting tissue in an electrical cutting mode. In the electrical cutting mode, as best shown in  FIGS. 9A-9B , electrical cutting insert  190  is snap-fit, or otherwise engaged to shelf  224   f  ( FIG. 6B ) of outer jaw housing  224  within longitudinal channel  228   c  (see  FIG. 6B ) of insulator  228  (see  FIG. 6B ) and blade channel  226   c  ( FIG. 6B ) of tissue sealing plate  226  (collectively blade channel  225 ) of jaw member  120 , although electrical cutting insert  190  may alternatively be molded or otherwise fixed within blade channel  225 . More particularly, upon insertion of electrical cutting insert  190  into blade channel  225 , proximal finger  194  of electrical cutting insert  190  is moved into position adjacent to and in electrical communication with second electrical contact  149  of flex circuit  140  such that electrosurgical energy may be supplied to electrical cutting insert  190  to electrically cut tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . Similar to finger  226   b  of tissue sealing plate  226  ( FIG. 6B ), finger  194  of electrical cutting insert  190  may be configured to be resiliently deflected upon engagement within jaw member  120  to bias finger  194  into electrical communication with flex circuit  140 . Further, electrical contacts  148 ,  149  of flex circuit  140  may be independent of one another, such that electrosurgical energy may be independently supplied to tissue sealing plate  226  and/or electrical cutting insert  190 , e.g., such that actuator  92  is operable to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue sealing plate  226 , while actuator  96  is independently operable to supply electrosurgical energy to electrical cutting insert  190 . 
     In use, end effector assembly  100  is maneuvered into position such that tissue to be grasped, sealed, and or cut, is disposed between jaw members  110 ,  120 . Next, moveable handle  40  is pulled proximally relative to fixed handle  50  such that jaw member  110  is pivoted relative to jaw member  120  from the spaced-apart position to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Thereafter, electrosurgical energy may be supplied, e.g., via activation of actuator  92 , to tissue sealing plate  216  and/or tissue sealing plate  226  and conducted through tissue to effect a tissue seal. Next, electrical cutting insert  190  may be activated, e.g., via activation of actuator  96 , to conduct energy through tissue to cut the previously sealed tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . 
     As discussed above, upon engagement of replaceable components  210 ,  220  with, jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, upon disengagement of replaceable components  210 ,  220  from jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, and/or upon use of end effector assembly  100 , e.g., upon application of electrosurgical energy to jaw members  110 ,  120 , replaceable components  210 ,  220  may be transitioned from a new state to a used state. Accordingly, after the initial use and subsequent removal of replaceable components  210 ,  220  from jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, replaceable components  210 ,  220  can no longer be engaged to jaw frames  112 ,  122  and, thus are inhibited from being re-used. As such, once the reusable components of forceps  10  have been sterilized or otherwise prepared for re-use, a new set of replaceable components  210 ,  220  for positioning about jaw frames  112 ,  122 , respectively, are required. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 10-13B , another embodiment of an end effector assembly configured for use with forceps  10  ( FIG. 1 ) is shown generally identified by reference numeral  1000 . End effector assembly  1000  is similar to end effector assembly  100  (see  FIGS. 1-2 ) and includes first and second jaw members  1100 ,  1200 , respectively, that are pivotable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member  1100 ,  1200  includes a fixed jaw frame  1120 ,  1220 , respectively, and a replaceable component  2100 ,  2200  that is engageable with fixed jaw frame  1120 ,  1220 , respectively. As best shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B , jaw frames  1120 ,  1220  each include a electrical contact pin  1300 ,  1400 , e.g., a male electrical connector  1300 ,  1400 , extending from a distal end  1140 ,  1240 , respectively, thereof, although only one of jaw frames  1120 ,  1220  need include an electrical contact pin  1300 ,  1400 , respectively. One or both of electrical contact pins  1300 ,  1400  is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown) for supplying electrosurgical energy to one or both of jaw members  1100 ,  1200 . Further, each jaw frame  1120 ,  1220  defines a generally trapezoidal-shaped cross-sectional configuration, although jaw frames  1120 ,  1220  may define other suitable configurations. Each jaw frame  1120 ,  1220  also includes a pair of lateral flanges  1160 ,  1260 , respectively, configured to engage replaceable components  2100 ,  2200 , respectively, to secure replaceable components  2100 ,  2200  thereon. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 12 , in conjunction with  FIG. 11B , replaceable component  2200  and the assembly of jaw member  1200  will be described. The configuration and assembly of replaceable component  2100  of jaw member  1100  is similar to that of replaceable component  2200  jaw member  1200  and thus will not be repeated here for purposed of brevity. Replaceable component  2200 , as best shown in  FIG. 12 , includes an outer jaw housing  2210 , an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate  2220 , and an insulator  2230  configured to electrically isolate tissue sealing plate  2220  from outer jaw housing  2210 . Outer jaw housing  2210  of replaceable component  2200  houses insulator  2230  therein and engages tissue sealing plate  2220  thereon. More specifically, tissue sealing plate  2220  is positioned about outer jaw housing  2210  to define an opposed tissue sealing surface in conjunction with tissue sealing plate  1220  of replaceable component  2100  of jaw member  1100  (see  FIGS. 10 ,  11 A and  13 A), while insulator  2230  is disposed between outer jaw housing  2210  and tissue sealing plate  2220 . Tissue sealing plate  2220  further includes a distal flange  2240  extending downwardly therefrom into outer jaw housing  2210  and into communication with female electrical connection hub  2250 . Flange  2240  of tissue sealing plate  2220  may surround, abut, or may otherwise be disposed in electrical communication with female electrical connection hub  2250  disposed within outer jaw housing  2210 . As can be appreciated, female electrical connection hub  2250  is formed at least partially from an electrically conductive material such that electrosurgical energy may be supplied therethrough to tissue sealing plate  2220 . Outer jaw housing  2210  further includes an internal cavity defining a complementary configuration relative to jaw frame  1220 , e.g., a trapezoidal-shaped cross-sectional configuration, to facilitate insertion and engagement of jaw housing  2210  and jaw frame  1220  to one another. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 12 , in conjunction with  FIG. 10 , tissue sealing plate  2220  includes a longitudinally-extending blade channel  2260  defined therein and insulator  2230  includes a longitudinal channel  2270  defined therein that is aligned within blade channel  2260  of tissue sealing plate  2220  to permit reciprocation of a knife blade  182  (see  FIGS. 8A-8C ) therethrough for cutting tissue grasped between jaw members  1100 ,  1200 . Similar to end effector assembly  100  discussed above (see  FIGS. 1-9B ), tissue sealing plate  2220  and insulator  2230  of replaceable component  2200  may also be configured to receive an electrical cutting insert  2300  ( FIG. 13B ) therein for electrically cutting tissue, or may come integrally assembled with electrical cutting insert  2300  ( FIG. 13B ) disposed therein, as will be described below. 
     In order to engage replaceable components  2100 ,  2200  about jaw frames  1120 ,  1220 , respectively, replaceable components  2100 ,  2200  are slid proximally over jaw frames  1120 ,  1220 , respectively, until lateral flanges  1160 ,  1260 , of jaw frames  1120 ,  1220 , respectively, snap into engagement with respective slots  2180 ,  2280  defined within replaceable components  2100 ,  2200 , respectively. As replaceable components  2100 ,  2200  are slid proximally into engagement about jaw frames  1120 ,  1220 , respectively, electrical contact pin  1400  of jaw frame  1220  is inserted into female connection hub  2250  of replaceable component  2200 , thereby electrically coupling tissue sealing plate  2220  to the source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown). Similarly, electrical contact pin  1300  of jaw frame  1120  is inserted into a corresponding connection hub (not shown) disposed within replaceable component  2100  of jaw member  1100 . Slots  2180 ,  2280  of replaceable components  2100 ,  2200 , respectively, may be configured as single-use elements, e.g., slots  2180 ,  2280  may be transitioned from a new state to a used state upon engagement thereof, disengagement thereof, and/or use of end effector assembly  1000 , similarly to any of the embodiments discussed above with respect to end effector assembly  100  to inhibit reengagement of replaceable components  2100 ,  2200  to jaw frames  1120 ,  1220 , respectively, after the initial use. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 13A-13B , replaceable component  2100  and/or replaceable component  2200  may be configured as electrical cutting components. More specifically, an electrical cutting member  2300  may be engaged within either or both of jaw members  1100 ,  1200 , similarly as described above with respect to end effector assembly  100  (see  FIGS. 9A-9B ), or may be engaged within only one of jaw members  1100 ,  1200 , e.g., jaw member  1200 , while the other jaw member, e.g., jaw member  1100 , defines a continuous tissue sealing plate or includes an insulating member  2400  disposed therein and configured to oppose electrical cutting member  2300  of jaw member  1200 . The electrical cutting components, e.g., electrical cutting member  2300  and/or insulating member  2400 , may be integrally formed with replaceable components  2200 ,  2100 , respectively, or may be removably engageable therewith. The use and operation of end effector assembly  1000  is similar to that of end effector assembly  100  described above and, thus, will not be repeated herein. Further, any of the features or embodiments of end effector assembly  100  ( FIGS. 1-9B ) and/or end effector assembly  1000  ( FIGS. 10-13B ) described herein may similarly be adapted for use with the other end effector assembly  100 ,  1000 . 
     From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the same. While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.