초록 ▼

A surgical instrument (10) includes a handle (12), a rigid stem section (20) extending from the handle, and a flexible stem section (24) extending from the rigid stem section. A surgical tool (30) connected with a distal end of the flexible stem section (24) includes a movable part (34). The flexibl

A surgical instrument (10) includes a handle (12), a rigid stem section (20) extending from the handle, and a flexible stem section (24) extending from the rigid stem section. A surgical tool (30) connected with a distal end of the flexible stem section (24) includes a movable part (34). The flexible stem section (24) comprises a plurality of relatively pivotable vertebrae (120-129) extending along the flexible stem section and an extension spring (150) extending axially through the plurality of vertebrae for transmitting axial load between the surgical tool (30) and the rigid stem section (20). An actuator cable (180) extends through the extension spring (150) and is connected with the movable tool part (34) for applying force to the movable tool part to move the movable tool part relative to the flexible stem section (24). The extension spring (150) carries the axial load on the flexible stem section (24).

대표청구항 ▼

[ Having described the invention, we claim:] [1.] A surgical instrument comprising:a handle;a rigid stem section extending from said handle;a flexible stem section extending from said rigid stem section;a surgical tool connected with a distal end of said flexible stem section, said surgical tool inc

[ Having described the invention, we claim:] [1.] A surgical instrument comprising:a handle;a rigid stem section extending from said handle;a flexible stem section extending from said rigid stem section;a surgical tool connected with a distal end of said flexible stem section, said surgical tool including a movable part;said flexible stem section comprising a plurality of relatively pivotable vertebrae extending along said flexible stem section and an extension spring extending axially through said plurality of vertebrae, said extension spring transmitting substantially all axial load between said surgical tool and said rigid stem section, said flexible stem section being freely bendable even when there is a large axial load being transmitted through said flexible stem section between said surgical tool and said rigid stem section; andan actuator cable extending through said extension spring and connected with said movable tool part for applying force to said movable tool part to move said movable part relative to said flexible stem section.