Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates to an ultrasonic treatment device used for dissecting and coagulating tissues. The ultrasonic treatment device is equipped with an ultrasonic transducer including piezoelectric elements converting electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. The ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted along the transmission member to a probe that serves to clasp objects together with a jaw for the performance of treatment procedures on biological tissue of patients, such as blood vessel sealing. The transmission member may create undesired transverse vibration that causes problems such as deterioration of blood vessel sealing performance, heat generation, abnormal stress, and abnormal noise.

In the discussion that follows, reference is made to certain structures and/or methods. However, the following references should not be construed as an admission that these structures and/or methods constitute prior art. Applicant expressly reserves the right to demonstrate that such structures and/or methods do not qualify as prior art against the present invention.

<FIG> is a figure of an ultrasonic treatment device in the related art (<CIT>). The related art surgical operation system <NUM> consists of a handpiece <NUM>, a main body apparatus <NUM> which is an output control apparatus, a foot switch <NUM> and a counter electrode plate <NUM>. The handpiece <NUM> is a surgical treatment instrument capable of treatment using both ultrasonic and high-frequency current. The handpiece <NUM> is connected to the main body apparatus <NUM> via a cable <NUM> a which is attachable and detachable. The handpiece <NUM> has an insertion portion 2b and a handle portion 2c. The connector portion 3a connects the handpiece to the main body apparatus <NUM>, which controls the output of the ultrasonic vibration and/or high-frequency current. The main body apparatus <NUM> has a plurality of displays 3b and a plurality of various operation buttons 3c for controlling the performance of handpiece <NUM>. The foot switch <NUM> is connected to the main body apparatus <NUM> through a cable <NUM> a, and switches the mode from treatment using ultrasonic vibration, treatment using high-frequency current, or treatment using both. The counter electrode plate <NUM> is connected to the main body apparatus <NUM> through a cable <NUM> a. The counter electrode plate <NUM> is a return electrode for returning a current which passes through a subject at the time of monopolar output of a high-frequency current.

<FIG> is a figure of a portion of an ultrasonic treatment device in the related art (<CIT>). The related art ultrasonic treatment device includes a transmission rod <NUM> used for transmitting ultrasonic vibrations to the ultrasonic probe. The transmission rod <NUM> is covered by a damping sheath <NUM>, which is further covered by the elongated tubular member <NUM>. Diametrically opposed openings 162b and 162c, as well as longitudinal slit <NUM> are formed on the damping sheath <NUM>. Compliant members 190b and 190c (O-rings and fenders) are disposed around the periphery of the damping sheath <NUM>, which are preferably disposed around the nodes to minimize damping of the desired longitudinal vibration.

The damping sheath <NUM> is constructed of a polymeric material, preferably with a low coefficient of friction to minimize dissipation of energy from the axial motion or longitudinal vibration of the transmission rod <NUM>. The damping sheath <NUM> is preferably in light contact with the transmission rod <NUM> to dampen or limit non-axial or transverse side-to-side vibration of the transmission rod <NUM>. The damping sheath <NUM> can dampen transverse motion of the unwanted vibration which are located randomly along the length of the transmission rod <NUM> relative to the nodes and antinodes of the desired longitudinal vibration.

Horizontal vibrations occurring in ultrasonic treatment devices when the ultrasonic probe is vibrated can lead to problems, such as deterioration of blood vessel sealing performance, heat generation, abnormal stress, and abnormal noise. Even though related art ultrasonic treatment devices may have structures, such as the damping sheath <NUM>, such a damping sheath <NUM> is in contact throughout the transmission rod <NUM> at all times in areas where dampening or limiting the non-axial or transverse side-to-side vibration is not necessary. For instance, when the related art ultrasonic treatment device is operated and clasps and objects such as human tissues during the treatment procedure, the need for damping the transverse vibrations occurring at the ultrasonic probe decreases since the direct contact made between the ultrasonic probe and the human tissue or the other clasping feature results in damping of the transverse vibration. Furthermore, the contacting of the damping sheath <NUM> and the ultrasonic probe causes rise in the electric power and frictional heat during the treatment procedure using the longitudinal vibration. Therefore, a configuration is preferred in which damping occurs when the ultrasonic probe is not used for clasping but does not occur when the ultrasonic probe is used for clasping human tissues.

<CIT> refers to a treatment device that includes a treatment unit and a probe. The treatment device has an insertion section and an operation section. The insertion section includes a sheath and an action portion. A treatment section of the probe projects toward a distal end of the sheath on a distal end side. A support section which is made of a metallic material is arranged on an inner circumferential surface of or near the distal end of the sheath. The support section is arranged opposite to the action portion with respect to the probe.

<CIT> relates to a medical device which treats body tissue with ultrasonic vibration and includes a cover for preventing body tissue from being erroneously cauterized. The cover is arranged so that the vibration transmitting member is interposed between the cover and the jaw. The cover is connected to the jaw through a driving pin of a driving pipe so that the movement of the driving pipe actuates the opening/closing of the jaw and the rotation of the cover relative to the vibration transmitting member.

Claim <NUM> defines the invention and dependent claims disclose embodiments. No surgical methods are claimed per se. Accordingly, there is a need for designing an ultrasonic treatment device with an efficient structure in view of the practical usage, which would substantially obviate one or more of the issues due to limitations and disadvantages of related art treatment devices. The invention is directed to the object to provide an improved surgical treatment device having an efficient structure and practical administration of the associated medical procedure. Further, the invention is directed to the object of controlling such a surgical treatment device. In order to address these objects, a surgical treatment device is provided, having the features defined in claim <NUM>. For example, there is a need to provide improved damping solutions that, for example, minimize the contact between a transmission rod and a damping structure, so as to minimize or prevent heat generation, abnormal noise, or other issues to arise.

Additional features and advantages of such instruments will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice. The objectives and other advantages of the disclosed treatment device will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims thereof, as well as the appended drawings. In general, the disclosed structures and systems provide for an ultrasonic treatment device efficiently suppressing problems such as heat generation, abnormal stress, and abnormal noise created from vertical and/or horizontal ultrasonic vibrations. The surgical treatment device may be used for ultrasonic treatment and high frequency treatment procedure. In a first aspect, a surgical treatment device is equipped with an ultrasonic transducer transmitting ultrasonic vibration generated by the transducer to the treatment probe located at a distal end of the transmission rod. The treatment probe includes a treatment surface and a jaw moveable relative to the transmission rod from an open position to a closed position. In particular, the jaw may be movable relative to the treatment probe. Preferably, the jaw may be movable relative to the treatment surface of the treatment probe. The treatment probe may be configured to clasp objects, such as biological tissue of a patient. The surgical treatment device further comprises a damping feature which is configured to contact the transmission rod configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations. The transducer may include piezoelectric elements converting electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. The surgical treatment device further includes a transmission rod with a treatment probe, wherein a proximal end of the transmission rod is operatively connected to the transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibration generated by the transducer to the treatment probe located at a distal end of the transmission rod. The treatment probe includes a treatment surface and a jaw moveable relative to the transmission rod from an open position to a closed position. In particular, the jaw may be movable relative to the treatment probe. Preferably, the jaw may be movable relative to the treatment surface of the treatment probe. The treatment probe may be configured to clasp objects, such as biological tissue of a patient. The surgical treatment device further comprises a damping feature which is configured to contact the transmission rod when the jaw is in the open position, and to be spaced apart from the transmission rod when the jaw is in the closed position. The surgical treatment device may comprise a single damping feature. It is, however, also conceivable that the surgical treatment device comprises more than one damping features.

The damping feature includes a probe holder and serves for damping transverse vibrations associated with the ultrasonic vibrations and may comprise a sheath on a portion of the transmission rod or treatment probe, an outer surface of the treatment probe configured to contact an inner surface of a surrounding structure, an outer surface of the transmission rod configured to contact an inner surface of a surrounding structure (such as the sheath of the surgical treatment device), or combinations of such features. Damping transverse vibrations minimizes or prevents excess vibrations and, among other things, decreases frictional heat caused by the damping features attenuating the ultrasonic vibrations.

The damping feature includes the probe holder, which is a structure that at least partially circumscribes the outer circumference surface of the treatment probe and through which the treatment probe can slidably move. Movement of the jaw between an open position (when the jaw is not in contact with a surface of the treatment probe) and a closed position (when the jaw is in contact with a surface of the treatment probe) causes the outer circumference surface of the treatment probe to move from a first position in which the treatment probe is in contact with the damping feature (namely, contacting a surface of the probe holder) and a second position in which the treatment probe is spaced apart from the damping feature (namely, spaced apart from surfaces of the probe holder). By being in contact with the damping feature when the jaw is in the open position (which is otherwise an unloaded condition of the treatment probe), the damping feature suppresses transverse vibration of the treatment probe. Correspondingly, when the treatment probe is in a loaded condition by being in-use during a procedure, the jaw is in the closed position and the treatment probe is not in contact with the damping feature associated with the probe holder, for example, by the treatment probe being biased away from contacting a surface of the probe holder.

The damping feature may also be associated with a drive member, which is a structure that slidably moves within the sheath of the treatment device to extend and retract the treatment probe and to actuate movement of the jaw. Movement of the drive member may cause the treatment probe to move and also for the jaw to move between an open position (when the jaw is not in contact with a surface of the treatment probe) and a closed position (when the jaw is in contact with a surface of the treatment probe). The treatment probe may be attached to the transmission rod at a transition region and, with rearward movement of treatment probe (i.e., in the retracting direction), a proximal end of the drive member may move toward and contact the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod. A damping feature may be located at the portion of the drive member that contacts the transition region. Thus, when moved in the retracting direction, the damping feature of the drive member may be caused to contact the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod. By coordinating the movement of the drive member and the operation of the jaw so that the damping feature of the drive member is caused to be in contact with the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod when the jaw is in the open position (which is otherwise an unloaded condition of the treatment probe), the damping feature suppresses transverse vibration of the treatment probe. Correspondingly, movement of the drive member and the operation of the jaw can also be coordinated so that, when the treatment probe is in a loaded condition by being in-use during a procedure, the jaw is in the closed position and the damping feature of the drive member is not in contact with the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod, for example, by the drive member being slidably moved toward a distal end to separate the damping feature of the drive member from the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod.

Additionally, the damping feature may be provided integrally with the structure that opens and closes the jaw, and thereby switches the state of contact and separation between the damping feature and the transmission rod and/or treatment probe as the jaw is opened and closed. Still further, the damping features can be placed at either the antinode or the node of the ultrasonic vibrations.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be made of insulate material.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be made of resin.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be made of rubber.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may have a square or rectangular shape.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may have a triangular shape.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the probe holder may be configured to contact the transmission rod applying force in a radial direction.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the probe holder may cover the transmission rod perpendicularly as to the treatment surface.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be placed within half wavelength of the ultrasonic vibration from the distal end of the treatment probe in the axial proximal direction.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be placed near a fulcrum of the jaw.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the transmission rod may be displacable towards the direction the jaw closes in the closed position.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be configured such that the contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod does not occur at a node of a transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be configured such that the contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod does not occur at an antinode of a longitudinal vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be configured such that the contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at an antinode of a transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the treatment probe may be configured to treat biological tissue.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the treatment probe may be configured as an electrode for treatment using high frequency currents.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the treatment probe may include a curved shape.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may be configured to prevent short circuit between the transmission rod and other parts of the surgical treatment device.

The surgical treatment device according to the first aspect may further comprise a slider configured to move in a direction parallel with the transmission rod.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the slider and the jaw may be configured so that, when the slider moves towards the proximal end of the transmission rod the jaw moves in the opening direction and, when the slider moves towards the distal end of the transmission rod the jaw moves in the closing direction.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the damping feature may further include an elastic cushion and the slider may include the elastic cushion.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first aspect, the elastic cushion may be configured to move integrally with the slider.

In the surgical treatment device according to the first, the transmission rod may includes a portion having a larger diameter compared to the other portions of the transmission rod.

The diameter of the portion having a larger diameter may gradually increase.

In a second aspect, a surgical treatment device comprises a transducer generating ultrasonic vibrations and a transmission rod including a treatment probe. A proximal end of the transmission rod is operatively connected to the transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibration generated by the transducer to the treatment probe located at a distal end of the transmission probe. The treatment probe includes a treatment surface and a jaw moveable relative to the transmission rod from an open position to a closed position. In particular, the jaw may be movable relative to the treatment probe. Preferably, the jaw may be movable relative to the treatment surface of the treatment probe. Further, the surgical treatment device comprises a slider configured to move in a direction parallel with the transmission rod. The slider and the jaw are configured so that, when the slider moves towards the proximal end of the transmission rod the jaw moves in the opening direction and, when the slider moves towards the distal end of the transmission rod the jaw moves in the closing direction. Furthermore, the slider includes a damping feature that is configured to contact the transmission rod when the jaw is in the open position and to be spaced apart from the transmission rod when the jaw is in the closed position. The slider may comprise a single damping feature. It is, however, also conceivable that the slider comprises more than one damping features.

The surgical treatment device according to the second aspect may comprise features discussed above with reference to the surgical treatment device according to the second first aspect. In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be made of insulate material.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be made of resin.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be made of rubber.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may have a square or rectangular shape.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may have a triangular shape.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be configured to contact the transmission rod applying force in the radial direction.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be configured to move integrally with the slider.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be configured such that the contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod does not occur at a node of a transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be configured such that the contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod does not occur at an antinode of a longitudinal vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be configured such that the contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at an antinode of the transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the treatment probe may be configured to treat biological tissue.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the treatment probe may be configured as an electrode for treatment using high frequency currents.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the damping feature may be configured to prevent short circuit between the transmission rod and other parts of the treatment device.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the treatment probe may include a curved shape.

In the surgical treatment device according to the second aspect, the transmission rod may includes a portion having a larger diameter compared to the other portions of the transmission rod.

In a third aspect which is useful to understand - but does not form part of - the invention, a method for controlling a surgical treatment device is provided. The method comprises operating a transducer so as to generate ultrasonic vibrations, and connecting a transmission rod including a treatment probe to the transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibration generated by the transducer to the treatment probe. The method further comprises moving a jaw relative to a treatment surface of the transmission rod for opening and closing. In particular, the a jaw may be moved relative to a treatment surface of the treatment probe provided on the transmission rod. A damping feature contacts the transmission rod when the jaw is in the open position, and the damping feature is spaced apart from the transmission rod when the jaw is in the closed position.

The method according to the third aspect may comprise anyone of the features described above with reference to the surgical treatment device of the first or the second aspect.

In a fourth aspect which is useful to understand - but does not form part of - the invention, a method for controlling a surgical treatment device comprises operating a transducer so as to generate ultrasonic vibrations, and connecting a transmission rod including a treatment probe to the transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibration generated by the transducer to the treatment probe. The method further comprises moving a slider in a direction parallel with the transmission rod for opening and closing a jaw movable relative to a treatment surface of the transmission rod. When the slider moves towards a proximal end of the transmission rod the jaw moves in the opening direction and, when the slider moves towards a distal end of the transmission rod the jaw moves in the closing direction. When the slider is moved, a damping feature of the slider contacts the transmission rod when the jaw is in the open position and is spaced apart from the transmission rod when the jaw is in the closed position.

The method according to the fourth aspect may comprise anyone of the features described above with reference to the surgical treatment device of the first or the second aspect.

Other systems, exemplary methods, features and advantages will be, or will become, apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description. Nothing in this section should be taken as a limitation on the claims. Further aspects and advantages are discussed below in conjunction with the embodiments of the disclosed device. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the disclosed device are examples and explanatory and are intended to improve understanding of the invention.

The following detailed description of preferred embodiments can be read in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate like elements and in which:.

Throughout all of the drawings, dimensions of respective constituent elements are appropriately adjusted for clarity. For ease of viewing, in some instances only some of the named features in the figures are labeled with reference numerals.

<FIG> is an illustration of a surgical treatment device <NUM> including a body <NUM>, a sheath <NUM>, and a treatment end <NUM>. The body <NUM> includes a moving arm <NUM>, a grip <NUM>, and a transducer <NUM>. The moving arm <NUM> is used together with grip <NUM> to actuate and operate the functions of treatment end <NUM>. The transducer <NUM> includes an ultrasonic transducer which is connected to a power source supplying power used for ultrasonic treatment and/or high-frequency treatment using surgical treatment device <NUM>. The power source can be a wired or wireless power source. The sheath <NUM> protects the wires and members contained therein, such as those used for operating the functions of treatment end <NUM>.

<FIG> is the magnified view of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM>. The treatment end <NUM> consists of a jaw <NUM> and an ultrasonic probe <NUM>. The jaw <NUM> moves (indicated by arrow M) relative to the ultrasonic probe <NUM> to open and close in the vertical direction through the manipulation of the movable handle <NUM> in order to clasp biological tissues and other objects for treatment. The ultrasonic probe <NUM> vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency transmitted through the transmission member within sheath <NUM>. A longitudinal vibration, an ultrasonic vibration of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> made in the direction <NUM>, creates frictional heat used for treatment purposes such as dissection of tissues, as well as frictional heat caused through contacting objects such as damping members. The ultrasonic probe <NUM> may have a curved shape and may also serves as an electrode for treatment using high frequency currents.

<FIG> illustrates the ultrasonic probe <NUM> viewed from the vertical direction, the direction the jaw <NUM> opens and closes. <FIG> also illustrates the transmission member <NUM> extending in a distal direction from the ultrasonic probe <NUM>, and which, within the arrangement of the treatment device, extends within the sheath <NUM> and connects to the transducer <NUM>. The transmission member <NUM> is configured to transmit ultrasonic energy and/or high frequency energy from the transducer to the ultrasonic probe <NUM>, which has a curved shape. In the <FIG> view, the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and transmission member <NUM> are in a stationary state, i.e., a state where neither the ultrasonic vibration nor the high frequency current is applied to the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and transmission member <NUM>.

<FIG> also illustrates the ultrasonic probe <NUM> viewed from the vertical direction, the direction the jaw <NUM> opens and closes. <FIG> illustrates an exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and transmission member <NUM> in an oscillating state, i.e., a state where the ultrasonic vibration is applied.

Considering the use of ultrasonic probe <NUM> in treatment procedures, longitudinal vibration would be the desirable ultrasonic vibration. On the contrary, transverse vibrations and torsional vibrations would be undesirable ultrasonic vibrations that may cause issues during the treatment procedures. The longitudinal vibration occurs in parallel to the center axis of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the undesired transverse vibration occurs in the direction perpendicular to the center axis of the ultrasonic probe and the longitudinal vibration. Because the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is curved in the horizontal direction with an aim to improve the visibility during the treatment procedure, the axial unbalance of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> in the horizontal direction may create substantial transverse vibrations when the ultrasonic vibration is applied to the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. In the case shown in <FIG>, the ultrasonic vibration has caused a transverse vibration that includes antinodes (indicated in <FIG> by dashed lines <NUM> at the local maxima and minima) periodically along the length of the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. The transverse vibration at the antinode <NUM> of the transverse vibration leads to problems such as heat generation, abnormal stress, and abnormal noise, and thus need to be attenuated.

<FIG> illustrates the ultrasonic probe <NUM> viewed from the horizontal direction, the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction referred to in <FIG> also illustrates the transmission member <NUM> extending from the ultrasonic probe <NUM>, extending within the sheath <NUM>, and connecting to the transducer <NUM>. The ultrasonic probe <NUM> and transmission member <NUM> are in its stationary state, a state where neither the ultrasonic vibration nor the high frequency current is applied to the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and transmission member <NUM>. <FIG> also illustrates the ultrasonic probe <NUM> viewed from the horizontal direction. <FIG> illustrates an exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the transmission member <NUM> in an oscillating state, i.e., a state where the ultrasonic vibration is applied. Because the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is not curved in the vertical direction, axial unbalance in the vertical direction is minimal compared to the axial unbalance due to the curved ultrasonic probe <NUM> curving in the horizontal direction. Thus, the undesired transverse vibrations that may occur at the antinode <NUM> at the time of application of ultrasonic vibration is weak compared to the transverse vibrations in the horizontal direction as disclosed in <FIG> also illustrates an exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the transmission member <NUM> in its perspective view. <FIG> illustrates the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and transmission member <NUM> in its oscillated state, showing the occurrence of undesired transverse vibration created due to the curve of the ultrasonic probe <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in an open jaw state and showing aspects of a probe holder <NUM>. The jaw <NUM> includes an upper clasping surface <NUM> facing the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the ultrasonic probe <NUM> includes a lower clasping surface <NUM> facing the jaw <NUM>. The upper clasping surface <NUM> and the lower clasping surface <NUM> move relative to each other, typically by having jaw <NUM> pivot about an axis located at fulcrum <NUM>, in order to clasp biological tissues for treatment, such as dissection and/or coagulation. The relative movement M is actuated through the operation of the moving handle <NUM> and a motion mechanism, such as slider <NUM> embedded within the sheath <NUM>. The jaw <NUM> is rotatably joined to the probe holder <NUM> and to a sheath <NUM>, rotatable together with sheath <NUM>. The probe holder <NUM> may be made from electrically insulated materials such as resin or rubber and the inner surfaces of the probe holder <NUM> at least partially circumscribe the outer circumference surface of the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. The probe holder <NUM> slidably holds the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and, as described herein, with coordinated movement of the jaw <NUM> in the open direction, a region <NUM> (also called herein an upper holding portion) of the probe holder <NUM> contacts a surface of the ultrasonic probe <NUM>, either with line contact or area contact, to attenuate ultrasonic vibration including transverse vibration that causes abnormal noise and other undesirable effects, particularly when the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is in an unloaded state, i.e., not in contact with biological tissue and/or not in contact with the jaw <NUM>, particularly not in contact with the upper clasping surface <NUM> of the jaw <NUM>. A base end <NUM> of the sheath <NUM> is connect to or otherwise interfaces with the sheath <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the probe holder <NUM> unaccompanied by other portions of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM>. The hole <NUM> in the probe holder <NUM> receives the fulcrum <NUM> or other structure in the base section of the jaw <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> provides a structure by which to connect the probe holder <NUM> to the sheath <NUM>. For example, protrusion <NUM> can be snap-fit into a corresponding recess or hole on the inner surface of the sheath <NUM>, particularly located in intermediate region <NUM> of the sheath <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional side view of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in an open jaw state. The ultrasonic probe <NUM> extends through the probe holder <NUM> and sheath <NUM>. The jaw <NUM> is opened using the slider <NUM>, which acts on fulcrum <NUM> to pivotably move jaw <NUM> about fulcrum <NUM> (not shown). In this open jaw position, the region <NUM>, e.g., the upper holding portion, of the probe holder <NUM> is in direct contact with the surface of ultrasonic probe <NUM>, perpendicularly as to the treatment surface, and the direct contact serving to attenuate ultrasonic vibration including transverse vibrations when the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is in an oscillated state. The electrical insulation of the probe holder <NUM> prevents electrical currents to short circuit between the ultrasonic probe <NUM> to the other parts of the treatment end <NUM>, such as fulcrum <NUM>, jaw <NUM>, slider <NUM>, or sheath <NUM> during the high-frequency current treatment procedure.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional axial view of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in an open jaw state, viewed at the location A-A' indicated in <FIG>. The ultrasonic probe <NUM> extends through the probe holder <NUM> and sheath <NUM>, which are joined together by the detents <NUM> and <NUM> on the jaw <NUM> at fulcrum <NUM>. First detent <NUM> and second detent <NUM> can be integrally formed with the jaw <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, or can be separate structures affixed to the jaw <NUM>. <FIG> also shows the slider <NUM> and fulcrum <NUM> that are used to open and close upper jaw <NUM>. By not being loaded, the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is biased toward and contacts the region <NUM>, e.g., the upper holding portion, of the probe holder <NUM>, serving to attenuate ultrasonic vibration including transverse vibrations when the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is in an oscillated state. At the same time, the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is spaced apart from the probe holder <NUM> and sheath <NUM> at a circumferential location of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> that is <NUM> degrees from the location where the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is contacts the region <NUM>, e.g., there is a space between the outer circumference surface of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the probe holder <NUM> and sheath <NUM> in region indicated by S in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional side view of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in a close jaw state. The jaw <NUM> is closed using the slider <NUM>, which acts on fulcrum <NUM> to pivotably move jaw <NUM> about fulcrum <NUM> (not shown). In the closed position, the upper clasping surface <NUM> contacts the lower clasping surface <NUM> of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and applies a force in the downward direction <NUM>. Due to the downward force <NUM> applied to the ultrasonic probe <NUM> by the jaw <NUM>, the entirety of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is displaced and pushed in the downward direction towards the space indicated by S in <FIG>, resulting in a gap (represented by arrow G) forming between the surface of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the probe holder <NUM>. In particular, the surface of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> no longer contacts the region <NUM>, e.g. the upper holding portion <NUM>, of the probe holder <NUM>. Since the region <NUM> is not in direct contact with ultrasonic probe <NUM> (and in contrast to the arrangement of these features in the open jaw state illustrated in <FIG>), the attenuation of the ultrasonic vibration using the probe holder <NUM> does not take place. However, through direct contact of the upper clasping surface <NUM> and the lower clasping surface <NUM> or direct contact of the lower clasping surface <NUM> with the biological tissue(s) to be treated, attenuation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> would still occur.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional axial view of the treatment end <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in a closed jaw state, viewed at the location B-B' indicated in <FIG>. The jaw <NUM> is closed using the slider <NUM> acting on fulcrum <NUM> (not shown) to pivotably move jaw <NUM> about fulcrum <NUM>. The gap G resulting from the downward force <NUM> discussed above is illustrated between the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and probe holder <NUM>, in particular between the surface of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> and the region <NUM> (i.e. upper holding portion) of the probe holder <NUM>. Since the upper holding portion <NUM> is not in direct contact with ultrasonic probe <NUM>, the attenuation of the ultrasonic vibration using the probe holder <NUM> does not take place. However, through direct contact of the upper clasping surface <NUM> and the lower clasping surface <NUM> or direct contact of the lower clasping surface <NUM> with the biological tissue(s) to be treated, attenuation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> still occurs.

<FIG> schematically illustrates the internal arrangement of the slider <NUM> and ultrasonic probe <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in an open jaw state. At the time the jaw <NUM> opens, the slider <NUM> is moved towards the proximal direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>) relative to the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. The slider <NUM> includes a damping feature <NUM>, such as an elastic cushion made from insulation materials such as rubber and resin that moves together with the slider <NUM>. The electrical insulation of the damping feature <NUM> prevents electrical currents to short circuit between the ultrasonic probe <NUM> to the other parts of the treatment end <NUM> during the high-frequency current treatment procedure. The damping feature <NUM> may have a square or rectangular shape and can be affixed to the slider <NUM> or can be integrally formed with the slider <NUM>. When the damping feature <NUM> comes in direct contact with the thickened portion of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> or the transmission member <NUM> at the open jaw state, the transverse vibrations causing noise when the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is at an oscillated state will be attenuated.

<FIG> schematically illustrates the internal arrangement of the slider <NUM> and ultrasonic probe <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in a closed jaw state. At the time the jaw <NUM> is closed, the slider <NUM> is moved towards the distal direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>) relative to the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. Since the damping feature <NUM> moves away from the thickened portion of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> or the transmission member <NUM> accompanying slider <NUM>, the damping feature <NUM> is spaced apart from and no longer directly contacts the ultrasonic probe <NUM> or the transmission member <NUM> and will no longer attenuate the transverse vibrations causing noise when the ultrasonic probe is at an oscillated state. However, as shown in <FIG>, the attenuation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> would, in this closed jaw state, be achieved through direct contact of the upper clasping surface <NUM> and the lower clasping surface <NUM> or direct contact of the lower clasping surface <NUM> with the biological tissue(s) to be treated.

<FIG> schematically illustrates the internal arrangement of the slider <NUM> and ultrasonic probe <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in an open jaw state. At the time the jaw <NUM> opens, the slider <NUM> is moved towards the proximal direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>) relative to the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. The slider <NUM> includes a damping feature <NUM>, such as an elastic cushion, that moves together with the slider <NUM>. The damping feature <NUM> may have a triangular shape and can be affixed to the slider <NUM> or can be integrally formed with the slider <NUM>. This configuration allows the damping feature to contact the transmission rod and apply force in the radial direction, which may effectively attenuate transverse vibrations. When the damping feature <NUM> comes in direct contact with the tapered portion of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> or the transmission member <NUM> at the open jaw state, the transverse vibrations causing noise when the ultrasonic probe <NUM> is at an oscillated state will be attenuated.

<FIG> schematically illustrates the internal arrangement of the slider <NUM> and ultrasonic probe <NUM> of the surgical treatment device <NUM> in a closed jaw state. At the time the jaw <NUM> is closed, the slider <NUM> is moved towards the distal direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>) relative to the ultrasonic probe <NUM>. Since the damping feature <NUM> moves away from the ultrasonic probe <NUM> or the included portion of the transmission member <NUM> accompanying slider <NUM>, the damping feature <NUM> is spaced apart from and no longer directly contacts the ultrasonic probe <NUM> or the transmission member <NUM> and will no longer attenuate the transverse vibrations causing noise when the ultrasonic probe is at an oscillated state. However, as shown in <FIG>, the attenuation of the ultrasonic probe <NUM> would, in this closed jaw state, be achieved through direct contact of the upper clasping surface <NUM> and the lower clasping surface <NUM> or direct contact of the lower clasping surface <NUM> with the biological tissue(s) to be treated.

Claim 1:
A surgical treatment device (<NUM>), comprising:
a transducer (<NUM>) configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations; and
a transmission rod (<NUM>) including a treatment probe (<NUM>), wherein a proximal end of the transmission rod (<NUM>) is operatively connected to the transducer (<NUM>) for transmitting ultrasonic vibration generated by the transducer (<NUM>) to the treatment probe (<NUM>) located at a distal end of the transmission rod (<NUM>), and wherein the treatment probe (<NUM>) includes a treatment surface (<NUM>) and a jaw (<NUM>) moveable relative to the transmission rod (<NUM>) from an open position to a closed position,
wherein the surgical treatment device (<NUM>) includes a damping feature (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to contact the transmission rod (<NUM>) when the jaw (<NUM>) is in the open position and to be spaced apart from the transmission rod (<NUM>) when the jaw (<NUM>) is in the closed position,
characterized in that:
the damping feature (<NUM>, <NUM>) includes a probe holder (<NUM>), which at least partially circumscribes an outer circumference surface of the treatment probe (<NUM>) and through which the treatment probe (<NUM>) is slidably movable,
the probe holder (<NUM>) includes a region (<NUM>) that attenuates the ultrasonic vibration by contacting the transmission rod (<NUM>), and
the probe holder (<NUM>) is configured to contact the transmission rod (<NUM>) when the jaw (<NUM>) is in the open position and to be spaced apart from the transmission rod (<NUM>) when the jaw (<NUM>) is in the closed position.