surgical instrument with dual-function end actuator and side-loaded clamping arm assembly

摘要

A surgical instrument includes a body, an ultrasonic blade, a grip arm, and a resilient limb. The body includes an electrical conductor and defines a longitudinal geometric axis. the clamping arm is pivotally coupled to the body in a pivot assembly. The clamping arm is intended to compress the tissue against the ultrasonic blade. the clamping arm includes an electrode for the purpose of applying RF energy to the fabric, the clamping arm being configured to be charged and removed from the body in the pivot assembly along a path that is transverse to the defined longitudinal axis. through the body. The resilient member is situated within the pivot assembly. The resilient member is configured to provide electrical continuity between the clamp arm electrode and the body electrical conductor.