Temperature indicator and insulator for powered surgical instruments

摘要

A temperature sensing device for attachment to a powered surgical instrument operating a workpiece such as a bur. The device is a thermochromic element which may be embodied as a paint or a thermal insulating device. The device embodiment is in the form of a thermoplastic, elastomeric material which changes color at a predetermined temperature and is formed in a shape adapted to enable the device to be affixed to the distal end of the instrument, adjacent the collet connecting the workpiece to the instrument. The device is attached in a contiguous manner so frictional heat generated by moving parts of the instrument may be conducted through contiguous surfaces of the instrument and the device. The thermochromic element provides a visual indication of the temperature of a portion of the instrument when the temperature exceeds a predetermined level.