Ultrasonic device and method for tissue coagulation

Abstract

An ultrasonic surgical device for the coagulation of animal tissue having an ultrasonic applicator and a movable jaw with a jaw surface adjacent the distal portion of the ultrasonic applicator for movement toward the applicator to a closed position at a predefined clearance of between about 0.075 to about 1.9 millimeters from the applicator. The device may also include a mechanical cutting element that can be extended into the clearance to cut the tissue and means to vary the predefined clearance without removing the applicator from the patient. Tissue coagulating and cutting can be maximized and performed separately and can be easily monitored by the surgeon.

1 . An ultrasonic surgical apparatus for the coagulation of animal tissue having a handle for manipulation by a surgeon, an ultrasonic transducer for generating ultrasonic vibration, and an ultrasonic applicator attached to the ultrasonic transducer and extending from the handle for delivery of ultrasonic vibrations to the tissues of the animal, wherein said apparatus further comprises:
 a distal portion on the ultrasonic applicator having a generally round cross-section with a diameter between approximately 2 and 6 millimeters to provide a broad surface for coagulation and to avoid cutting of the animal tissue;   an elongated support member releasably attached to the surgical handle and extending to the distal portion of the ultrasonic applicator; and   a moveable jaw with a jaw surface attached to the elongated support member adjacent the distal portion of the ultrasonic applicator for movement toward said distal portion to a closed position at a predefined clearance of between about 0.075 to about 1.9 millimeters, from said distal portion of the ultrasonic applicator.   
     
     
         2 - 26 . (canceled)