Spatial expansion device and medical equipment
By designing support and expansion components and combining them with fluid pump injection, the extraperitoneal approach can be infinitely expanded, solving the problem of insufficient surgical space, providing better operating channels and field of vision, and reducing surgical fatigue and trauma risks.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511746388.4
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-23
AI Technical Summary
Extraperitoneal approach surgery has a small operating space, relatively cramped operation, high physical exertion, high surgical fatigue, and high requirements for the surgeon's operational skills and physical strength.
A space expansion device is provided, including a support and an expansion member. Fluid is injected into the closed-loop cavity by a fluid pump, causing the expansion member to expand the part to be expanded. The support and expansion member form a connected closed-loop cavity, realizing stepless expansion adjustment, avoiding single-point or unilateral expansion, and providing a more complete field of vision. It can be instantly retracted after the operation.
It can establish sufficient operating channels and field of vision in a short time, save labor costs, maintain the advantages of minimally invasive surgery, avoid additional incisions, and is suitable for open and laparoscopic (including robotic) surgery.
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Figure CN121370249A_ABST
Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of medical equipment, in particular to a space expansion device and medical equipment. BACKGROUND
[0002] With the wide application of laparoscopic technology in urology, the extraperitoneal approach has become one of the preferred paths for radical nephrectomy, partial nephrectomy, and total length of ureteral resection. This approach does not need to cut the peritoneum, and can isolate the surgical operation from the abdominal cavity, significantly reducing the risk of tumor cell implantation, peritoneal dissemination, and postoperative intestinal adhesion. However, the extraperitoneal space is a potential fibrous fatty space, and the natural space is narrow and lacks natural anatomical space. Under laparoscopy, the space needs to be artificially expanded to establish a sufficient operating channel and field of view, and the operation is relatively cramped, with high physical consumption and high surgical fatigue, requiring higher operating ability and physical strength of the operator. SUMMARY
[0003] The purpose of the present application is to provide a space expansion device and medical equipment, which solves the problem of small operation space and relatively cramped operation of the extraperitoneal approach.
[0004] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present application provides a space expansion device, comprising:
[0005] a support member for supporting a part to be supported;
[0006] an expansion member, a first end of the expansion member being fixed to a first end of the support member, and a second end of the expansion member being movably connected to a second end of the support member, so that the expansion member and the support member form a continuous closed loop inner cavity;
[0007] a fluid pump in communication with the expansion member, for injecting fluid into the closed loop inner cavity to expand the part to be expanded.
[0008] In some embodiments, the first end of the support member is provided with a fixed part, the second end of the support member is provided with a socket part, the first end of the expansion member is fixed to the fixed part, the second end of the expansion member is provided with a plug-in part, and the plug-in part is plug-in matched with the socket part.
[0009] In some embodiments, the plug-in part is provided with a continuous tearable micropore row, and the tear strength of the micropore row is distributed in a gradient along the longitudinal direction of the expansion member; when the circumferential tension of the expansion member caused by inflation exceeds the tear threshold of the micropore row at the corresponding position, the micropore row cracks step by step, so that the expansion member releases a length and reduces the proportion of itself inserted into the socket part.
[0010] In some embodiments, the expansion member is a strip structure, and when the second end of the expansion member is not connected to the support member, the expansion member is a flat strip structure, and when the second end of the expansion member is connected to the support member, the expansion member is a ring-shaped strip structure; and / or
[0011] The inner cavity of the extension is provided with multiple partitions to evenly distribute the injected fluid pressure.
[0012] In some embodiments, a number of Ni-Ti shape memory alloy microskeleton segments are embedded in the surface of the support member. The microskeleton is in a flexible state below a first temperature, allowing the support member to be rolled up and stored. When the temperature inside the support member rises to above a second temperature due to fluid injection, the microskeleton undergoes a phase transition and generates recovery stress to strengthen the support force of the support member on the part to be supported.
[0013] In some embodiments, the support member is C-shaped or U-shaped to conform to the contour of the part to be supported.
[0014] In some embodiments, the fluid pump includes:
[0015] Connector, which connects to the expansion component;
[0016] The capsule, one end of which is connected to a connector, is used to switch between a retractable structure, a first inflation structure, and a second inflation structure.
[0017] A valve stem is movably fitted into a connector. The two ends of the valve stem are respectively connected to a first valve and a second valve. The other end of the bladder is connected to the first valve. The valve stem is configured such that: in a first movement phase, the bladder switches from a retracted structure to a first inflated structure to introduce external fluid into the bladder through the first valve; and in a second movement phase, the bladder switches from the first inflated structure to a second inflated structure to inject the fluid in the bladder into the expansion member through the valve stem, the second valve, and the connector.
[0018] In some embodiments, the connector is provided with a discharge port, and the valve stem is configured to: close the discharge port at the end of a first movement phase and a second movement phase, and open the discharge port when disengaging from the connector to allow fluid in the bladder, expansion member and support member to be discharged from the discharge port.
[0019] In some embodiments, the capsule includes an elastic skeleton and a membrane disposed on the elastic skeleton. The elastic skeleton is connected to a connector and a first valve. The membrane is configured to deform under the drive of the elastic skeleton. The elastic skeleton includes:
[0020] The first connecting ring is fixed to the connecting piece;
[0021] The second connecting ring is fixed to the first valve;
[0022] Several elastic arms are arranged circumferentially between the first connecting ring and the second connecting ring to provide elastic force to the membrane, so that the capsule tends to switch from the retraction structure to the first inflation structure, or from the second inflation structure to the first inflation structure.
[0023] This application also provides a medical device including any of the above-mentioned space expansion devices.
[0024] Compared to the aforementioned background technology, the space expansion device provided in this application includes a support member, an expansion member, and a fluid pump. The support member supports the part to be supported. A first end of the expansion member is fixed to the first end of the support member, and a second end of the expansion member is movably connected to the second end of the support member, such that the expansion member and the support member form a connected closed-loop cavity. The fluid pump is connected to the expansion member and is used to inject fluid into the closed-loop cavity to expand the part to be expanded.
[0025] The beneficial effects of this space expansion device mainly include:
[0026] Firstly, by adjusting the volume of fluid injected into the closed-loop cavity by the fluid pump, the cavity can be radially expanded to the required operating space in a short time, thereby establishing a sufficient operating channel and field of vision for the operator, and stepless expansion adjustment can be achieved while operating and expanding.
[0027] Secondly, the expansion and support components close to form an annular cavity. After fluid is injected, a closed-loop air / liquid balloon is formed. The closed-loop air / liquid balloon has no dead angles and can simultaneously push open elastic tissues such as peritoneum, muscle, and fat, avoiding single-point or unilateral expansion and providing a more complete field of vision. After the operation, only the fluid needs to be withdrawn, and the annular cavity will instantly shrink back, making it easy to remove the whole thing without enlarging the incision, thus maintaining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery.
[0028] Third, the device can be inserted into the human body as a whole through the laparoscopic channel. When the device is in working condition, it does not occupy the laparoscopic operation channel. The fluid pump can maintain or increase the expansion by remotely injecting fluid, without the need for additional assistants to pull it, thus saving labor costs. Attached Figure Description
[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.
[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the space expansion device in operation in an embodiment of this application.
[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the space expansion device in a non-operating state in an embodiment of this application.
[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the overall structure of the fluid pump in the space expansion device shown. Figure 1 .
[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the overall structure of the fluid pump in the space expansion device shown. Figure 2 .
[0034] Figure 5 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a fluid pump after the membrane has been removed from the bladder.
[0035] Figure 6 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the connection of the valve stem, the first valve, and the second valve in the fluid pump. Figure 1 .
[0036] Figure 7 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the connection of the valve stem, the first valve, and the second valve in the fluid pump. Figure 2 .
[0037] Figure 8 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the first valve Figure 1 .
[0038] Figure 9 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the first valve Figure 2 .
[0039] Figure 10 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the middle valve column and the second valve.
[0040] in:
[0041] 1-Fluid pump;
[0042] 10-Connector, 11-Outlet port;
[0043] 20-Capsule body, 21-Elastic skeleton, 211-First connecting ring, 212-Second connecting ring, 213-Elastic support arm, 22-Membrane body;
[0044] 30 - Valve stem, 31 - Flow port;
[0045] 40 - First valve, 41 - First inlet, 42 - First outlet;
[0046] 50 - Second valve, 51 - Second inlet, 52 - Second outlet;
[0047] 2-Support component, 201-Fixing part, 202-Socket part;
[0048] 3-Extension part, 301-Plug-in part;
[0049] 4-Connecting pipe. Detailed Implementation
[0050] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0051] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.
[0052] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The space expansion device provided in this application embodiment includes a fluid pump 1, a support member 2, and an expansion member 3.
[0053] The support member 2 is used to support the part to be supported. The first end of the extension member 3 is fixed to the first end of the support member 2, and the second end of the extension member 3 is movably connected to the second end of the support member 2. Both the support member 2 and the extension member 3 are hollow structures, so that the extension member 3 and the support member 2 form a closed-loop cavity. The fluid pump 1 is connected to the extension member 3. The laparoscopic mechanical fluid pump 1 is connected to the inner side of the extension member 3 (near the fixed end of the support member 2) through the connecting tube 4. The fluid pump 1 is used to inject fluid into the closed-loop cavity so that the extension member 3 can open up the part to be expanded, so that the surrounding tissues are pushed away, and the surgical area space is better exposed.
[0054] It should be noted that the so-called "area to be supported" and "area to be expanded" generally refer to the human body parts to be operated on, such as blood vessels and urinary catheters. When the expansion structure formed by the expansion component 3 and the support component 2 enters the blood vessel or urinary catheter, the support component 2 adheres to one side of the inner wall of the blood vessel or urinary catheter, and the expansion component 3 opens up other positions of the blood vessel or urinary catheter along the circumference, so as to solve the problem of small surgical operating space and relatively cramped operation.
[0055] This setup allows for rapid radial expansion of the closed-loop cavity to the required operating space by adjusting the volume of fluid injected into the closed-loop cavity by the fluid pump 1. This provides the operator with sufficient operating access and field of vision, and enables stepless expansion adjustment during operation. Simultaneously, the expansion component 3 and the support component 2 close to form a ring-shaped cavity. After fluid injection, a closed-loop air / liquid bladder is formed. This closed-loop air / liquid bladder eliminates dead angles, allowing for the simultaneous displacement of elastic tissues such as peritoneum, muscle, and fat, avoiding single-point or unilateral expansion and providing a more complete field of vision. After surgery, simply withdrawing the fluid causes the cavity to instantly retract, facilitating complete removal without the need for an enlarged incision, thus maintaining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. Furthermore, the device can be inserted entirely into the body through the laparoscopic channel. When in operation, the device does not occupy the laparoscopic operating channel; the expansion can be maintained or increased remotely by the fluid pump 1, eliminating the need for additional assistants and saving labor costs.
[0056] It should be noted that the space expansion device using the above-described configuration can be applied in both open and laparoscopic (including robotic) surgeries to fully expand the surgical operating space. Fluids such as air or laparoscopic gas (CO2) can be used to complete the operation.
[0057] In some embodiments, the support member 2 is C-shaped or U-shaped and is used to conform to the contour of the part to be supported. The extension member 3 is a strip structure (such as a pneumatic cuff). When the second end of the extension member 3 is not connected to the support member 2, the extension member 3 is a straight strip structure. When the second end of the extension member 3 is connected to the support member 2, the extension member 3 is an annular strip structure.
[0058] Specifically, the first end of the support member 2 is provided with a fixing part 201, the second end of the support member 2 is provided with a socket part 202, the first end of the extension member 3 is fixed to the fixing part 201, the second end of the extension member 3 is provided with a plug-in part 301, and the plug-in part 301 and the socket part 202 are plugged into each other.
[0059] As can be seen, the straight strip-shaped extension 3 can be rolled into a semi-circular or arc-shaped roll, and together with the C-shaped / U-shaped support 2, it enters the extraperitoneal space. The C-shaped / U-shaped design is based on the anatomical curvature of the psoas major muscle and abdominal wall, and automatically aligns itself when it falls against the wall during the operation, without the need for repeated rotation to find the shape. At the same time, the insertion part 301 and the receiving part 202 can be a multi-level snap-fit structure, which makes insertion and removal less strenuous, and any level of snap-fit can complete the closed-loop connection. After the operation, the fluid is drained first, and then the extension device is removed. After the snap-fit is released, the extension 3 automatically flattens into a strip, forming a double strip state with the support 2.
[0060] In this way, the fluid pump 1 pumps in air or laparoscopic gas, and the expansion member 3, which is the working element, gradually fills in. Under the action of fluid pressure, the expansion member 3 provides an outward expansion force, thereby expanding the surgical space.
[0061] In addition, the inner cavity of the extension 3 may be provided with multiple partitions, and the multiple partitions are used to evenly distribute the injected fluid pressure.
[0062] It is important to note that each partition acts as a ring-shaped reinforcing rib, dividing the overall inner cavity of the expansion member 3 into 3-6 parallel small cavities. This facilitates the uniform distribution of the injected fluid within the expansion member 3. Both the partitions and the bladder wall of the expansion member 3 can be thin-film structures, allowing for integral molding without additional processing steps.
[0063] The curvature of the semi-circular or arc-shaped roll matches the anatomical curvature of the aponeurosis of the psoas major and transverse abdominis muscles, allowing it to automatically conform to the shape upon release during surgery, eliminating the need for lateral swaying to find the correct shape. Simultaneously, the bent band itself stores elastic bending potential energy. When the two ends are joined to form a closed loop, the prestress is converted into circumferential tension, increasing the effective stiffness for the same wall thickness. Furthermore, the arc-shaped geometry ensures that the inner and outer sides of the loop remain on a continuous, smooth surface, preventing the polygonal creases common in straight bands under high pressure. This protects the peritoneum from point compression and reduces postoperative pain.
[0064] In some embodiments, the insertion part 301 is provided with a continuous tearable microporous array, and the tear strength of the microporous array is gradient distributed along the longitudinal (or length direction) of the extension member 3; when the circumferential tension of the extension member 3 due to expansion exceeds the tear threshold of the microporous array at the corresponding position, the microporous array cracks step by step, causing the extension member 3 to release a certain length and reduce the proportion of itself inserted into the socket part 202.
[0065] The extension component 3, with the above configuration, can adaptively and automatically adjust the proportion of its insertion into the support component 2 according to the space expansion situation.
[0066] Specifically, the insertion portion 301 of the extension 3 is pre-die-cut with a row of micropores continuously distributed longitudinally. For example, the tear strength is arranged in a gradient decreasing from the distal end to the socket at 0.2 N / cm. When the fluid pump 1 injects air into the annular cavity and the circumferential tension gradually increases with the space requirement, the tension first reaches the tear threshold of the distal micropore segment. This segment of micropores is immediately pulled open and releases a preset (5-8 mm) band length, so that the overlap length between the extension 3 and the socket 202 is shortened synchronously, thereby automatically reducing the circumference of the annulus. If air injection continues, the tension increases, and the next gradient of micropores cracks in sequence, realizing a closed-loop control of step-by-step release and step-by-step expansion until the circumferential tension and the elastic resistance of the surrounding tissue are rebalanced. This completes the adaptive adjustment, and the optimal expansion diameter can be maintained in real time during the operation without external force intervention.
[0067] In some embodiments, a number of Ni-Ti shape memory alloy microskeletons with a thickness of 0.1-0.2 mm are embedded in the surface of the support member 2. The microskeletons are in a flexible martensitic state below a first temperature (e.g., 25°C), allowing the support member 2 to be rolled up and stored. When the temperature inside the support member 2 rises to a second temperature (e.g., 30°C) due to fluid injection, the microskeleton undergoes an austenitic phase transformation, generating recovery stress, which instantly strengthens the support force of the support strip 2 on the limb.
[0068] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The fluid pump 1 provided in this application embodiment includes a connector 10, a bladder 20, and a valve stem 30.
[0069] The connector 10 is connected to the connecting tube 4, so that the bladder 20 is connected to the extension 3.
[0070] One end of the bladder 20 is connected to the connector 10, and the other end of the bladder 20 is connected to the first valve 40 located at the first end of the valve stem 30. The bladder 20 is used to switch between a retractable structure, a first inflation structure, and a second inflation structure. During the process of switching the bladder 20 from the retractable structure to the first inflation structure, external fluid can be introduced into the bladder 20 through the first valve 40. During the process of switching the bladder 20 from the first inflation structure to the second inflation structure, the fluid in the bladder 20 can be injected into the expansion member 3 through the valve stem 30, the second valve 50, the connector 10, and the connecting pipe 4.
[0071] The fluid pump 1 can operate using the carbon dioxide gas introduced during laparoscopic (including robotic) surgery, eliminating the need for a separate liquid pump and simplifying its application.
[0072] The term "retractable structure" refers to the initial state of the capsule 20, in which the capsule 20 is completely compressed (or completely collapsed) radially. The "first inflation structure" refers to the capsule 20 being in a spherical state. During the transition from the retractable structure to the first inflation structure, the capsule 20 is under negative pressure, and the working medium (generally fluid) from the external environment enters the capsule 20, inflating it. The "second inflation structure" refers to the structure achieved by axially compressing the capsule 20 in the first inflation structure (which can be understood as an ellipsoidal structure). When the capsule 20 in the first inflation structure is axially compressed, it transitions to the second inflation structure, allowing the fluid in the capsule 20 to flow into the expansion member 3, thus enabling the expansion member 3 to reach its working state.
[0073] The valve stem 30 is movably or slidably embedded in the connector 10. The valve stem 30 can move relative to the connector 10 along the axial direction of the connector 10, and the valve stem 30 can be inserted into or detached from the connector 10. The two ends of the valve stem 30 are respectively connected to the first valve 40 and the second valve 50. The outlet end of the first valve 40 and the inlet end of the second valve 50 are fastened together by the valve stem 30.
[0074] The valve stem 30 is configured such that: in a first movement phase, the bladder 20 switches from a retracted configuration to a first inflated configuration to introduce external fluid into the bladder 20 via a first valve 40; and in a second movement phase, the bladder 20 switches from the first inflated configuration to a second inflated configuration to inject fluid from the bladder 20 into the expansion member 3 via the valve stem 30, the second valve 50, the connector 10, and the connecting pipe 4. The first and second movement phases represent two different stages of a single driving action of the valve stem 30.
[0075] It should be noted that the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 mentioned above are both diaphragm-type one-way valve bodies. Both contain a circular rubber diaphragm inside, which can move within the cylindrical cavity of their respective valve bodies to achieve one-way flow of fluid within the valve body.
[0076] Compared with existing technologies that rely on external syringes, three-way valves, and extension tubes to inflate balloons, this embodiment integrates the function of controlling the expansion of the extension component 3 entirely within the fluid pump 1: the connector 10 directly connects to the extension component 3 via the connecting tube 4, and the balloon body 20-valve column 30-double valve form a closed-loop fluid passage. The balloon body 20 can complete the entire process of "liquid aspiration-pressurization-injection" in one drive by the valve column 30 between the three configurations of retraction, first inflation, and second inflation. The power transmission path is short, the energy loss is small, and the inflation speed and pressure accuracy are significantly improved. At the same time, this fluid pump 1 can directly enter the laparoscopic channel without the need for external syringes, three-way valves, or extension tubes, thus completely eliminating the occupation of additional channels and the impact on the field of vision, and reducing the risk of trauma caused by additional cannulas.
[0077] To facilitate fluid outflow after the work is completed, the connector 10 is provided with a discharge port 11, and the valve spool 30 is configured to close the discharge port 11 at the end of the first movement phase and the second movement phase, and open the discharge port 11 when disengaging from the connector 10 so that the fluid in the bladder 20 and the extension 3 can be discharged from the discharge port 11.
[0078] It should be noted that the first movement stage of the valve stem 30 mainly includes the stage before the valve stem 30 is inserted into the connector 10 and the stage after the valve stem 30 is inserted into the connector 10 and closes the outlet 11 (that is, the end of the first movement stage). In other words, the valve stem 30 begins to insert into the connector 10 and close the outlet 11 at the end of the first movement stage.
[0079] In this way, when liquid aspiration is needed, the capsule 20 is switched from the retracted structure to the first inflated structure, allowing fluid from the external environment to be introduced into the capsule 20 via the first valve 40. When liquid injection is needed, the capsule 20 is switched from the first inflated structure to the second inflated structure, allowing fluid from the capsule 20 to be injected into the expansion member 3 via the valve spool 30, the second valve 50, the connector 10, and the connecting pipe 4. By repeatedly axially compressing the capsule 20 and then removing the compression factor, fluid from the external environment can be continuously pumped into the expansion member 3 through the capsule 20, putting it into working condition. When liquid drainage is needed after operation, the capsule 20 is radially compressed (this can be achieved by axial movement of the valve spool 30), causing the fluid in the expansion member 3 and the fluid in the capsule 20 to flow into the external environment, emptying the entire device and the expansion member 3 again, restoring it to its initial state. At this point, the entire device can be taken out of the working environment.
[0080] For example, the connector 10 has an outlet 11 distributed in a circumferential direction at one end near the bladder 20, so that the fluid in the extension 3 and the fluid in the bladder 20 can flow out to the external environment through the outlet 11.
[0081] To facilitate connection with the connecting pipe 4, the end of the connector 10 away from the bladder 20 is a tapered end (forming a narrow end). The inner diameter of at least a portion of the tapered end is tapered in the direction away from the bladder 20. With this configuration, the tapered end not only facilitates connection with the connecting pipe 4, but also allows the connector 10 to form an inner cavity that allows the valve column 30 to move at the end of the first moving stage and in the second moving stage.
[0082] In other words, the non-retractable part of the connector 10 is the part that moves and cooperates with the valve stem 30. The valve stem 30 is movably fitted into this part. This not only guides the movement of the valve stem 30, but also limits the stroke of the valve stem 30, so that the movement of the valve stem 30 is within a set range.
[0083] Please refer to the following: Figure 5 The capsule 20 includes an elastic skeleton 21 and a membrane 22 (which may be a tough membrane).
[0084] The elastic frame 21 is connected to the connector 10 and the first valve 40; the membrane 22 is disposed on the elastic frame 21 and is used to deform under the drive of the elastic frame 21.
[0085] In this embodiment, the elastic frame 21 includes a first connecting ring 211, a second connecting ring 212, and a plurality of elastic arms 213. The first connecting ring 211 is fixed to the connector 10, the second connecting ring 212 is fixed to the first valve 40, and the plurality of elastic arms 213 are arranged circumferentially between the first connecting ring 211 and the second connecting ring 212. The plurality of elastic arms 213 are used to provide elastic force to the membrane 22, so that the capsule 20 has a tendency to switch from a retracted structure to a first inflated structure, or from a second inflated structure to a first inflated structure.
[0086] This configuration, with the elastic support arms 213 evenly distributed along the circumference, provides uniform radial support to the membrane 22 across the entire circumference, reducing local stress concentration, extending the fatigue life of the membrane 22, and simultaneously ensuring the geometric accuracy of the spherical shape, thus reducing flow pulsation. Furthermore, the first connecting ring 211 and the second connecting ring 212 are rigidly fixed to the connecting piece 10 and the first valve 40, respectively, forming a two-point positioning system. This facilitates rapid assembly and ensures that the elastic frame 21 is coaxial with the membrane 22, preventing asymmetrical deformation caused by skewness.
[0087] It is important to note that the capsule 20 structure, composed of the elastic framework 21 and the membrane 22, is stable in its first inflated state (spherical state). In other words, when in the retracted or second inflated state, the capsule 20 is unstable and tends to revert to or switch back to the first inflated state. The beneficial effects of this design include at least the following:
[0088] Firstly, regardless of whether the capsule 20 is axially overstretched to the retracted configuration or axially compressed to the second inflation configuration, all elastic arms 213 will work together to generate a restoring force pointing towards the spherical state, achieving "automatic return to position". This feature can prevent the membrane 22 from collapsing, folding or becoming over-tensioned when the system loses pressure or stops, significantly improving reliability.
[0089] Secondly, the first inflation structure is considered a stable equilibrium state, while both the retraction and second inflation structures represent high potential energy points. Only one inflation / deflation action is needed to predict the movement direction of the bladder 20, simplifying the control algorithm and reducing the number of sensors and logical complexity.
[0090] Third, the spherical stable state has the smallest surface area under the same volume, reducing the overall outer diameter; in the retraction or second expansion structure, the folding / extending action of the elastic arm 213 is completed in the axial direction without adding extra radial dimensions, making it suitable for compact space applications.
[0091] Fourth, the tension of the membrane 22 in the spherical state has an ideal linear relationship with the internal pressure. When used with a pressure sensor, high-precision real-time diameter monitoring can be obtained with simple calibration, thus improving the system's measurement and control accuracy.
[0092] Please refer to the following: Figure 6 to Figure 10 Both the first valve 40 and the second valve 50 are diaphragm-type one-way valve bodies, each containing a circular rubber diaphragm that can move within its cylindrical cavity to achieve unidirectional fluid flow within the valve body. Specifically, the first valve 40 has a first inlet 41 at the end away from the valve stem 30, and a first outlet 42 arranged circumferentially on the side of the first inlet 41 near the valve stem 30, allowing external fluid to enter the first valve 40 through the first inlet 41 and then enter the bladder 20 through the first outlet 42. The valve stem 30 has a flow port 31 at the end near the first valve 40, which connects the bladder 20 and the valve stem 30. The second valve 50 has a second inlet 51 at the end near the valve stem 30, and a second outlet 52 arranged circumferentially on the side of the second inlet 51 away from the valve stem 30, allowing fluid entering the valve stem 30 from the bladder 20 to enter the second valve 50 through the second inlet 51 and then enter the connector 10 through the second outlet 52.
[0093] When the elastic skeleton 21 is in its normal state (first inflation structure) or in a state of axial compression and radial expansion (second inflation structure), the front end of the valve stem 30 and the second valve 50 are inserted into the connector 10, and the valve stem 30 closes the fluid passage (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10. When the elastic skeleton 21 changes from its normal state (first inflation structure) to a state of axial compression and radial expansion (second inflation structure), under the action of fluid pressure, the diaphragm of the first valve 40 moves from the outlet end to the inlet end and closes the latter, preventing the fluid from flowing out of the capsule 20 from the outlet end of the first valve 40 and into the external environment; while the diaphragm of the second valve 50 moves from the inlet end to the outlet end, allowing the fluid to enter the expansion member 3 from the capsule 20.
[0094] When the elastic skeleton 21 recovers from a state of complete radial compression and axial expansion (retraction structure) to its normal form (first expansion structure), the valve stem 30 is initially not inserted into the connector 10 and has not yet closed the fluid passage (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10. The fluid passage (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10 is open, and under fluid pressure, fluid can enter the bladder 20 through the fluid passage (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10. Simultaneously, under fluid pressure, the diaphragm of the first valve 40 moves from the inlet end to the outlet end, and fluid also enters the bladder 20 from the external environment through the inlet end of the first valve 40. After the valve stem 30 is inserted into the connector 10 and closes the fluid passage (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10, under fluid pressure, the diaphragm of the first valve 40 remains at the outlet end, and fluid continues to enter the bladder 20 from the external environment through the inlet end of the first valve 40.
[0095] When the elastic skeleton 21 begins to expand axially and compress radially from its normal form (first expansion structure), the valve column 30 is pulled out from the connector 10, the fluid channel (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10 is restored to unobstructed flow, and the fluid in the expansion member 3 and the fluid in the bladder 20 both flow out through the fluid channel (outlet 11) on the side of the connector 10 and enter the external environment.
[0096] In some embodiments, the fluid pump 1 further includes a pressure sensor and a display device. The pressure sensor is configured to be in fluid communication with the bladder 20, and is used to detect the inflation pressure inside the bladder 20 in real time and output a corresponding inflation pressure signal. The display device is signal-connected to the pressure sensor, and is used to display the diameter of the bladder 20 under the corresponding inflation pressure in real time based on the inflation pressure signal fed back by the pressure sensor.
[0097] In this embodiment, the display device includes a receiving module, a signal conversion module, and a display module. The receiving module receives the inflation pressure signal fed back by the pressure sensor. The signal conversion module is signal-connected to the receiving module and converts the inflation pressure signal fed back by the pressure sensor into an inflation pressure-time curve. The display module is signal-connected to the signal conversion module and identifies the switching of the bladder 20 between the retraction structure, the first inflation structure, and the second inflation structure based on the inflation pressure-time curve. It also extracts the inflation pressure peak value from the inflation pressure-time curve and calculates and displays the diameter of the bladder 20 in real time based on the inflation pressure peak value according to a preset inflation pressure-diameter correspondence.
[0098] It should be noted that the display module treats the pressure curve as an "identity fingerprint". The specific process is as follows: first, look at the shape of the curve to identify whether the bladder 20 is currently in a retraction, first inflation, or second inflation phase; then find the highest point of the curve and treat it as the moment of "maximum bulge"; finally, use a pre-stored "pressure-diameter" lookup table to directly convert the peak pressure into the real-time diameter and display it on the screen immediately.
[0099] Integrating the pressure sensor and display device into three modules—"receive, conversion, and display"—and using the unique stable state of the bladder 20 (first inflation structure) as a benchmark, achieves integrated real-time visualization of "pressure-diameter," offering the following significant advantages:
[0100] Firstly, the diameter of the bladder 20 can be obtained by detecting the internal pressure of the bladder 20 in real time, avoiding the need for additional displacement or visual sensors; once the pressure is abnormal (overpressure or underpressure), the system can immediately determine that the bladder 20 is in an unstable retraction / secondary inflation state and trigger protection, reducing the risk of bursting or collapsing.
[0101] Secondly, it can output both "constitutional state-time curve" and "diameter-time curve" simultaneously using only one pressure signal, reducing the types of sensors and wiring complexity, and lowering the failure rate and cost.
[0102] Third, the display module automatically extracts the peak inflation pressure and, combined with historical data, can assess the fatigue level of the membrane 22 to achieve preventative maintenance; at the same time, it can provide real-time prompts for the optimal working range, extending the lifespan of the elastic skeleton 21 and the membrane 22.
[0103] Fourth, operators can directly observe the "pressure-diameter" synchronization curve on the display device to quickly complete pump calibration and fault location; it supports remote data upload, which facilitates cloud-based diagnosis and software upgrades.
[0104] In addition, all of the above functional modules can be integrated into the pump body end cap or control handle without taking up extra pipeline space, making them particularly suitable for portable or implantable micro fluid pump applications.
[0105] The working process of this fluid pump 1 is explained in detail below:
[0106] When the entire device enters the working environment, the initial state is that the elastic skeleton 21 is in a state of complete axial tension and radial compression, and the device and the extension 3 are empty. After removing the axial tension factor (which can be, for example, a drive component that can provide axial driving force to the valve column 30), the elastic skeleton 21 drives the mold to gradually return to a spherical shape, the bladder 20 is under negative pressure, and the fluid in the external environment enters the bladder 20 to fill it. Under the action of the second valve 50, the fluid in the extension 3 cannot enter the bladder 20.
[0107] Subsequently, the axial compression of the bladder 20 skeleton, under the action of the first valve 40, prevents the fluid inside the bladder 20 from flowing into the external environment, but instead flows into the expansion member 3.
[0108] After the axial compression factor is removed, the bladder 20 returns to its spherical shape, and the bladder 20 is under negative pressure. The fluid in the expansion piece 3 cannot return to the bladder 20, and the fluid in the external environment enters the bladder 20 to fill it.
[0109] After repeatedly removing the axial compression factor, the bladder 20 is axially compressed again, so that the fluid in the external environment can be continuously pumped into the expansion member 3 through the bladder 20 and put into working condition.
[0110] Finally, after removing the axial compression factor, the bladder 20 skeleton is further stretched axially (even if the bladder 20 is radially compressed). The fluid in the expansion member 3 and the fluid in the bladder 20 flow into the external environment through the outlet 11 of the connector 10, making the entire device and expansion member 3 empty again and returning to the initial state. At this point, the device can stop working and be removed from the working environment.
[0111] After the complete removal of axial stretching factors, the capsule 20 can be put back into working condition.
[0112] The fluid pump 1, configured as described above, can directly enter the laparoscopic channel and has its own built-in fluid pump function. By integrating both "pumping in" and "draining" fluid actions, and requiring only one external control device to operate these actions, it is not only easy to operate, but also allows fluid from the external environment to be continuously pumped into the expansion member 3 through the capsule 20, putting it into working condition, without relying on an external pump. When this device is used in laparoscopic (including robotic) surgery, the absence of an extension tube saves space and operating channel under laparoscopy. More importantly, the application of this device can reduce trauma and achieve a more minimally invasive procedure.
[0113] Specifically, this device expands the application range of interventional balloons, especially vascular balloons. Previously, vascular balloons were inserted percutaneously for occlusion or dragging, combined with laparoscopic surgery. With this device, the procedure can now be performed directly through the laparoscopic channel for occlusion or dragging. This reduces percutaneous puncture trauma, shortens surgical time, and decreases related complications such as thrombosis, making it a more minimally invasive procedure.
[0114] Meanwhile, the fluid pump 1 with the above-mentioned configuration can change the existing laparoscopic vascular surgery methods to a certain extent. Previously, when removing grade III to IV inferior vena cava tumor thrombi, balloon occlusion and dragging required prior percutaneous insertion of balloon instruments. However, with the fluid pump 1 combined with a vascular balloon, the entire surgery can be performed laparoscopically or robotically. Furthermore, the fluid pump 1 can be combined with other working elements for use in laparoscopic or robotic surgery, such as space expansion devices, thus solving many bottleneck problems in laparoscopic or robotic surgery.
[0115] The medical device provided in this application includes the space expansion device described in the above specific embodiments; other parts of the medical device can be referred to in related technologies, and will not be elaborated here.
[0116] It should be noted that in this specification, relational terms such as first and second are used only to distinguish one entity from several other entities, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities.
[0117] The spatial expansion device and medical equipment provided in this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the solution and core ideas of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to this application without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. A space expansion device, characterized in that, include: Support components are used to support the parts that need to be supported. An extension member, wherein the first end of the extension member is fixed to the first end of the support member, and the second end of the extension member is movably connected to the second end of the support member, such that the extension member and the support member form a connected closed-loop cavity; A fluid pump, connected to the expansion member, is used to inject fluid into the closed-loop cavity so that the expansion member can open up the part to be expanded.
2. The space expansion device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first end of the support member is provided with a fixing part, the second end of the support member is provided with a socket part, the first end of the extension member is fixed to the fixing part, the second end of the extension member is provided with a plug-in part, and the plug-in part is plugged into the socket part.
3. The space expansion device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The insertion part is provided with a continuous tearable microporous array, and the tear strength of the microporous array is distributed in a gradient along the longitudinal direction of the extension member. When the circumferential tension of the extension member exceeds the tear threshold of the microporous array at the corresponding position due to expansion, the microporous array cracks step by step, causing the extension member to release a certain length and reduce the proportion of itself inserted into the socket.
4. The space expansion device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The extension member is a strip structure. When the second end of the extension member is not connected to the support member, the extension member is a straight strip structure; when the second end of the extension member is connected to the support member, the extension member is an annular strip structure; and / or The inner cavity of the extension is provided with multiple partitions to evenly distribute the injected fluid pressure.
5. The space expansion device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the support is embedded with several segments of Ni-Ti shape memory alloy microskeleton. The microskeleton is flexible below a first temperature, allowing the support to be rolled up and stored. When the temperature inside the support rises to above a second temperature due to fluid injection, the microskeleton undergoes a phase transition and generates recovery stress to strengthen the support force of the support on the part to be supported.
6. The space expansion device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The support member is C-shaped or U-shaped and is used to conform to the contour of the part to be supported.
7. The space expansion device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The fluid pump includes: The connector is connected to the extension component; A capsule, one end of which is connected to the connector, for switching between a retractable structure, a first inflation structure, and a second inflation structure; A valve stem is movably fitted into the connector, with a first valve and a second valve connected to its two ends respectively. The other end of the bladder is connected to the first valve. The valve stem is configured such that: in a first movement phase, the bladder switches from a retracted configuration to a first inflated configuration to introduce external fluid into the bladder via the first valve; and in a second movement phase, the bladder switches from the first inflated configuration to a second inflated configuration to inject fluid from the bladder into the extension via the valve stem, the second valve, and the connector.
8. The space expansion device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The connector is provided with a discharge port, and the valve stem is configured to: close the discharge port at the end of the first movement phase and the second movement phase, and open the discharge port when disengaging from the connector to allow fluid in the bladder, the extension and the support to be discharged from the discharge port.
9. The space expansion device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The capsule includes an elastic skeleton and a membrane disposed on the elastic skeleton. The elastic skeleton is connected to the connector and the first valve. The membrane is used to deform under the drive of the elastic skeleton. The elastic skeleton includes: A first connecting ring is fixed to the connecting member; The second connecting ring is fixed to the first valve; Several elastic arms are arranged circumferentially between the first connecting ring and the second connecting ring to provide elastic force to the membrane, so that the capsule tends to switch from a retracted structure to a first inflated structure, or from a second inflated structure to a first inflated structure.
10. A medical device, characterized in that, Includes the space expansion device as described in any one of claims 1-9.