CONDUCTIVE AND NONCONDUCTIVE ENDOSCOPIC END EFFECTORS

摘要

A non-metallic end effector (390) for use in an endoscopic surgical tool (50) includes a metallic core (304) for strength and for providing a selected electrode surface (305) on the end effector (390). Selectively conductive end effectors (390) are manufactured by insert molding a plastic or ceramic or other nonconductive body around a metallic or otherwise conductive core (304). The conductive core (304) is exposed on a selected portion of the working surface (302) of the end effector (390) and extends through the nonconductive body of the end effector (390) for coupling to an electrical source. Selectively conductive end effectors (390) of this type can also be manufactured by coating a cast end effector member with a nonconductive polymer or by metallically plating a nonconductive ceramic end effector member. By extending the conductive core (304) of a selectively conductive end effector member (390) to the pivot hole (306) of the member, electrical coupling can be made through the clevis (30) and tube (15) of an endoscopic instrument (50).