Constant Value Gap Stabilizer for Articulating Links

摘要

A surgical instrument is adapted and configured for use in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The surgical instrument includes at least one pair of segments including a plurality of articulating links having gaps therebetween. At least one gap stabilizer stabilizes the articulating links and facilitates maintaining equally sized gaps between the articulating links during bending of the surgical instrument.

主权项

1. A surgical instrument comprising:
at least one segment having a plurality of articulating links defining gaps therebetween, the at least one segment transitionable between a straight position and a bent position; and at least one gap stabilizer including a first hydraulic pillow and a second hydraulic pillow that are in fluid communication with one another, the gap stabilizer containing a constant volume of fluid that is transferable between the first and second hydraulic pillows, wherein the first and second hydraulic pillows are positioned within the gaps defined by the articulating links along opposing lateral sides of the at least one segment to provide stability to the surgical instrument during transitioning of the at least one segment to the bent position.