Electroactive polymer-based lumen traversing device

Abstract

Methods and devices are provided for traversing a lumen of a tubular body part, such as the large or small intestine, the colon, the bladder, the stomach, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the methods and devices utilize electroactive polymers that are selectively actuated to move a device through a lumen.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to surgical devices and, more particularly, to methods and devices for traversing lumens using electroactive polymers. Background technique [0002] Many different medical devices pass through the lumen of a tubular body part for diagnostic and / or delivery purposes. For example, an endoscope is an instrument used to visually inspect the interior of body ducts or hollow organs such as the colon, bladder, stomach or intestines. During procedures involving the use of an endoscope, care must be taken to pass the instrument through the tubular body part in order to avoid perforating the lumen wall of the body part. [0003] Many techniques can be used to move the endoscope through the lumen. Most endoscopes are forced through the tubular body part and mechanical articulation mechanisms are used to maneuver the endoscope around turns. More recently, endoscopes have been developed to utilize distal, medial and proxim...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Although the use of an expandable cuff can be an effective propulsion mechanism for pushing and pulling the device through tubular body parts, difficulties can be encountered when navigating tight turns in tubular body parts

Images