Surgical stapler reloading simulation

Abstract

An apparatus for simulating surgical activity may present a first graphical representation of a portion of an anatomical structure. The apparatus may simulate a path of the surgical activity. The apparatus may determine a surgical tool selection point associated with selecting a surgical tool on the path of the surgical activity. The apparatus may present a surgical extent for selection at the surgical tool selection point. The apparatus may simulate a surgical outcome associated with selecting a surgical tool at the surgical tool selection point in response to receiving an indication of the selected surgical extent. The apparatus may generate a selected surgical tool at the surgical tool selection point in response to receiving an indication of the selected surgical tool.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 180,598, filed Apr. 27, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] For example, surgical simulations, such as computer - based two - dimensional or three - dimensional simulations of surgical environments and / or surgical procedures, present opportunities to develop surgical techniques. Surgical simulations can potentially benefit surgical training, planning, development, etc. For example, surgical simulations can be used to train surgeons in new procedures and / or improve the performance of procedures that surgeons already know. Surgical simulations can be used as a virtual “dress rehearsal” to assist surgeons in preparing for the next procedure. Also, surgical simulations can be used to experiment with unproven procedures and techniques.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] The devices and methods disclosed herein may enable improved surgical planning. For example, for a particular surgical procedure, identifying both the appropriate staple cartridges to utilize and their respective locations for use may enable improved surgical planning.

[0004] An apparatus for simulating surgical activity may present a first graphic representation of a portion of an anatomical structure. The apparatus may simulate the path of surgical activity via a second graphic representation. The path may be a cutting path. The path may be superimposed on the graphic representation of the anatomical structure. In an embodiment, the apparatus may present a graphical user interface configured to allow the user to draw on the graphic representation of a portion of the anatomical structure. The apparatus may receive instructions from the user for a drawing path on the first graphic representation of the portion of the anatomical structure. The apparatus may superimpose the drawing path on the first graphic representation of the portion of the anatomical structure. In an embodiment, the apparatus may segment the path into six segments based on the simulated path of surgical activity via a second graphic representation. The apparatus may identify a starting point and five intersections between the six segments. The starting point and the five intersections may be surgical tool selection points. The apparatus may receive instructions for a surgical tool selected from the surgical tools at the surgical tool selection points. In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool, the apparatus may associate the selected surgical tool at the surgical tool selection points. Therefore, the device can acquire the selection of a surgical tool at the surgical tool selection point.

[0005] The device may determine surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a surgical tool along the path of surgical activity. In embodiments, the surgical tool may be various types of surgical staple cartridges. The device may present a surgical range for selection at the surgical tool selection point. In embodiments, the surgical range may be a tissue thickness range. The device may receive indications of the selected surgical range. In embodiments, the device may present a first axis configured to represent the surgical range for selection. The first axis may include a slider. The selected surgical range, which may include upper and lower limits, may be received via the slider. In response to receiving indications of the selected surgical range (e.g., via the slider), the device presents a visual representation of a surgical tool suitable for selection.

[0006] The device may provide visual indications of surgical tools in response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical range. In embodiments, the device may generate a graphic representation of at least one preferred surgical tool. The surgical tool may be presented along a second axis (e.g., a horizontal axis) which may be associated with an optimal tissue thickness range. The tissue thickness range of the surgical tool may include lower and upper limits corresponding to the surgical range presented along a first axis (e.g., a vertical axis). The tissue thickness range of the surgical tool may assist the user in selecting at least one of the surgical tools based on a selected surgical range (e.g., a selected tissue thickness range). The user may select their preferred surgical tool according to their desired surgical outcome (e.g., perfusion preference).

[0007] The device may, in response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical range (e.g., via a slider), simulate surgical outcomes associated with selecting a surgical tool at a surgical tool selection point. In an embodiment, the surgical outcome may be a perfusion outcome associated with selecting a stapler cartridge type within a selected tissue thickness range. The device may present surgical tools on a second axis. The device may receive instructions for a selected surgical tool. In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool at a surgical tool selection point, the device 100 may generate a surgical plan of selection points along the path for performing surgical activities. The device may generate control signals that can be generated to perform surgical activities along the path. The control signals may include instructions for a selected surgical tool at a surgical tool selection point. The control signals may include a surgical plan of surgical tool selection points along the path for performing surgical activities. The control signals may be transmitted to a surgical control system. In an embodiment, the control signals may be configured to prompt the surgeon or surgical assistant to use the appropriate surgical tool at the corresponding surgical tool selection point.

[0008] In the embodiment, the device may obtain a reinforced area associated with a selected surgical area. Based on the selected and reinforced areas, the device may calculate the reinforced surgical area. Based on the reinforced surgical area, the simulated surgical outcome may be determined. In the embodiment, based on the reinforced surgical area, the device may present a second set of surgical tools for selection at a selected surgical tool selection point (e.g., the first set of surgical tools is the original set of surgical tools). In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical area, the device may simulate the surgical outcome associated with selecting a second set of surgical tools at a surgical tool selection point. The device may receive instructions for a selected second surgical tool. In response to receiving instructions for a selected second surgical tool, the device may generate a second surgical tool selected at a surgical tool selection point. At a surgical tool selection point, the device may convert the second surgical tool selected at the surgical tool selection point into a first surgical tool. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a system diagram illustrating an exemplary computing device for simulating surgical activities. [Figure 2] This document provides an example of a graphical user interface for simulating surgical activities. [Figure 3] This example illustrates a method for simulating surgical outcomes associated with the selection of surgical tools on a graphical user interface. [Figure 4] This example illustrates how selected surgical tools are generated on a graphical user interface for each selection point. [Figure 5A] An example of simulating a route on a graphical user interface is provided. [Figure 5B] An example of simulating a route on a graphical user interface is provided. [Figure 6]An example of a method for simulating the surgical area and the associated reinforcement area on a graphical user interface is provided. [Figure 7] An example is provided illustrating the presentation of a second set of surgical tools for selection from a graphical user interface. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The apparatus and methods disclosed herein may enable improvements in surgical planning. For example, identifying both the appropriate staple cartridges to use and the respective locations for their use for a particular surgical procedure may enable improvements in surgical planning.

[0011] An apparatus for simulating surgical activity may present a first graphic representation of a portion of an anatomical structure. The apparatus may simulate the path of surgical activity via a second graphic representation. The path may be a cutting path. The path may be superimposed on the graphic representation of the anatomical structure. In an embodiment, the apparatus may present a graphical user interface configured to allow the user to draw on the graphic representation of a portion of the anatomical structure. The apparatus may receive instructions from the user for a drawing path on the first graphic representation of the portion of the anatomical structure. The apparatus may superimpose the drawing path on the first graphic representation of the portion of the anatomical structure. In an embodiment, the apparatus may segment the path into six segments based on the simulated path of surgical activity via a second graphic representation. The apparatus may identify a starting point and five intersections between the six segments. The starting point and the five intersections may be surgical tool selection points. The apparatus may receive instructions for a surgical tool selected from the surgical tools at the surgical tool selection points. In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool, the apparatus may associate the selected surgical tool at the surgical tool selection points. Therefore, the device can acquire the selection of a surgical tool at the surgical tool selection point.

[0012] The device may determine surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a surgical tool along the path of surgical activity. In embodiments, the surgical tool may be various types of surgical staple cartridges. The device may present a surgical range for selection at the surgical tool selection point. In embodiments, the surgical range may be a tissue thickness range. The device may receive indications of the selected surgical range. In embodiments, the device may present a first axis configured to represent the surgical range for selection. The first axis may include a slider. The selected surgical range, which may include upper and lower limits, may be received via the slider. In response to receiving indications of the selected surgical range (e.g., via the slider), the device presents a visual representation of a surgical tool suitable for selection.

[0013] The device may provide visual indications of surgical tools in response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical range. In embodiments, the device may generate a graphic representation of at least one preferred surgical tool. The surgical tool may be presented along a second axis (e.g., a horizontal axis) which may be associated with an optimal tissue thickness range. The tissue thickness range of the surgical tool may include lower and upper limits corresponding to the surgical range presented along a first axis (e.g., a vertical axis). The tissue thickness range of the surgical tool may assist the user in selecting at least one of the surgical tools based on a selected surgical range (e.g., a selected tissue thickness range). The user may select their preferred surgical tool according to their desired surgical outcome (e.g., perfusion preference).

[0014] The device may, in response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical range (e.g., via a slider), simulate surgical outcomes associated with selecting a surgical tool at a surgical tool selection point. In an embodiment, the surgical outcome may be a perfusion outcome associated with selecting a stapler cartridge type within a selected tissue thickness range. The device may present surgical tools on a second axis. The device may receive instructions for a selected surgical tool. In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool at a surgical tool selection point, the device 100 may generate a surgical plan for selection points along the path to perform surgical activities. The device may generate control signals that can be generated to perform surgical activities along the path. The control signals may include instructions for a selected surgical tool at a surgical tool selection point. The control signals may include a surgical plan for surgical tool selection points along the path to perform surgical activities. The control signals may be transmitted to a surgical control system. In an embodiment, the control signals may be configured to prompt the surgeon or surgical assistant to use the appropriate surgical tool at the corresponding surgical tool selection point.

[0015] In the embodiment, the device may obtain a reinforced area associated with a selected surgical area. Based on the selected and reinforced areas, the device may calculate the reinforced surgical area. Based on the reinforced surgical area, the simulated surgical outcome may be determined. In the embodiment, based on the reinforced surgical area, the device may present a second set of surgical tools for selection at a selected surgical tool selection point (e.g., the first set of surgical tools is the original set of surgical tools). In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical area, the device may simulate the surgical outcome associated with selecting a second set of surgical tools at a surgical tool selection point. The device may receive instructions for a selected second surgical tool. In response to receiving instructions for a selected second surgical tool, the device may generate a second surgical tool selected at a surgical tool selection point. At a surgical tool selection point, the device may convert the second surgical tool selected at the surgical tool selection point into a first surgical tool.

[0016] Figure 1 is a system diagram illustrating an exemplary computing device 100 for simulating and / or optimizing the selection of surgical staple reloading. As shown in Figure 1, the computing device 100 may include, among other things, a processor 118, a transceiver 121, a transmit / receive element 121, a speaker / microphone 124, a keypad 126, a display / touchpad 128, non-removable memory 131, removable memory 132, a power supply 134, a global positioning system (GPS) chipset 136, and / or other peripherals 138. It will be understood that the computing device 100 may include any partial combination of the aforementioned elements while maintaining consistency with one embodiment.

[0017] The processor 118 may be a general-purpose processor, a dedicated processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) circuit, any other type of integrated circuit (IC), a state machine, etc. The processor 118 may perform signal coding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, and / or any other functions that enable the computing device 100 to operate in a wireless environment. The processor 118 may be coupled to a transceiver 121 which can be coupled to a transmit / receive element 121. Although Figure 1 depicts the processor 118 and the transceiver 121 as separate components, it will be understood that the processor 118 and the transceiver 121 may be integrated together in an electronic package or chip.

[0018] The transmit / receive element 121 may be configured to transmit signals to or receive signals from a base station via the air interface 116. For example, in one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 121 may be an antenna configured to transmit and / or receive RF signals. In one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 121 may be an emitter / detector configured to transmit and / or receive, for example, IR, UV, or visible light signals. In yet another embodiment, the transmit / receive element 121 may be configured to transmit and / or receive RF and optical signals. It will be understood that the transmit / receive element 121 may be configured to transmit and / or receive any combination of radio signals.

[0019] The processor 118 of the computing device 100 may be connected to the speaker / microphone 124, the keypad 126, and / or the display / touchpad 128 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) display unit or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display unit), and may receive user input data from them. The processor 118 may also output user data to the speaker / microphone 124, the keypad 126, and / or the display / touchpad 128. In addition, the processor 118 may access information from and store data in any suitable type of memory, such as the non-removable memory 131 and / or the removable memory 132. Examples of the non-removable memory 131 may include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, or any other type of memory storage device. Examples of the removable memory 132 may include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a secure digital (SD) memory card, and the like. In other embodiments, the processor 118 may access information from and store data in a memory that is not physically located in the computing device 100, such as a server or a home computer (not shown).

[0020] The processor 118 may receive power from the power supply 134 and may be configured to distribute and / or control the power to other components within the computing device 100. The power supply 134 may be any suitable device for supplying power to the computing device 100. For example, the power supply 134 may include one or more dry batteries (e.g., nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-zinc (NiZn), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lithium-ion (Li-ion), etc.), a solar cell, a fuel cell, and the like.

[0021] The processor 118 can also be connected to a GPS chipset 136 configured to provide location information (e.g., longitude and latitude) regarding the current position of the computing device 100. In addition to, or instead of, the information from the GPS chipset 136, the computing device 100 can receive location information from a base station via the air interface 116 and / or can determine its position based on the timing of signals received from two or more nearby base stations. It will be understood that the computing device 100 can obtain location information by any suitable location determination method while maintaining consistency with one embodiment.

[0022] The processor 118 can be further connected to other peripheral devices 138 that can include one or more software modules and / or hardware modules that provide additional features, functionality, and / or wired or wireless connectivity. For example, peripheral devices 138 can include an accelerometer, an e-compass, a satellite transceiver, a digital camera (for photos and / or videos), a universal serial bus (USB) port, a vibration device, a television transceiver, a hands-free headset, a Bluetooth module, a frequency modulated (FM) radio unit, a digital music player, a media player, a video game player module, an Internet browser, a virtual reality and / or augmented reality (VR / AR) device, an activity tracker, and the like. The peripheral devices 138 can include one or more sensors, and the sensors can be one or more of a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a Hall effect sensor, a magnetometer, an orientation sensor, a proximity sensor, a temperature sensor, a time sensor, a geolocation sensor, an altimeter, a light sensor, a touch sensor, a magnetometer, a barometer, a gesture sensor, a biometric sensor, and / or a humidity sensor.

[0023] The computing device 100 may include a processor and a network interface 20100. The processor may be connected via a system bus to a communication module, storage device, memory, non-volatile memory, and input / output (I / O) interfaces. The system bus can be any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, peripheral bus or external bus, and / or local bus, using any various available bus architectures. Examples of such architectures include, but are not limited to, a 9-bit bus, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA), Micro-Charmel Architecture (MSA), Extended ISA (EISA), Intelligent Drive Electronics (IDE), VESA Local Bus (VLB), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), USB, Advanced Graphics Port (AGP), Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA), Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI), or any other proprietary bus.

[0024] The processor may be any single-core or multi-core processor, such as those known by the trademark name ARM Cortex by Texas Instruments. In one embodiment, the processor may be, for example, the LM4F230H5QR ARM Cortex-M4F processor core available from Texas Instruments. This processor core includes on-chip memory of 256KB single-cycle flash memory or other non-volatile memory with a maximum frequency of 40MHz, a prefetch buffer to improve performance beyond 40MHz, 32KB single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internal read-only memory (ROM) with StellarisWare® software, 2KB electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and / or one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, one or more quadrature encoder input (QEI) analogs, and one or more 12-bit analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) with 12 analog input channels. Further details are available in the product datasheet.

[0025] In one embodiment, the processor may include a safety controller comprising two controller-based families, such as the TMS570 and RM4x, also from Texas Instruments and known by the trade names Hercules ARM Cortex R4. The safety controller may be configured specifically for IEC61508 and ISO26262 safety limit applications, in particular, to provide a highly integrated safety mechanism while offering scalable performance, connectivity, and memory options.

[0026] It should be understood that the computing device 100 may include software that acts as an intermediary between the described user and basic computer resources in a suitable operating environment. Such software may include an operating system. An operating system, which may be stored on disk storage, may function to control and allocate the resources of the computer system. System applications may leverage resource management by the operating system through program modules and program data stored either in system memory or on disk storage. It should be understood that the various components described herein can be implemented using various operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

[0027] The user can input commands or information to the computing device 100 via input devices connected to the I / O interface. Examples of input devices include, but are not limited to, pointing devices such as mice, trackballs, styluses, and touchpads; keyboards; microphones; joysticks; gamepads; satellite receivers; scanners; TV tuner cards; digital cameras; digital video cameras; and webcams. These and other input devices connect to the processor 20102 via interface ports and the system bus. Examples of interface ports include serial ports, parallel ports, game ports, and USB ports. Output devices use some of the same types of ports as the input devices. Therefore, for example, a USB port may be used to provide input to the computing device 100 and output information from the computing device 100 to the output device. Output adapters may be provided to indicate that some output devices, such as monitors, displays, speakers, and printers, may be present, among others, which may require special adapters. Examples of output adapters include, but are not limited to, video and sound cards that provide means of connection between the output device and the system bus. Note that other devices and / or systems of devices, such as remote computers, can provide both input and output functions.

[0028] The computing device 100 may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as cloud computers, or to local computers. Remote cloud computers may include personal computers, servers, routers, network PCs, workstations, microprocessor-based devices, peer devices, or other common network nodes, but typically include many or all of the elements described in relation to a computer system. For brevity, only memory storage devices are shown along with the remote computers. The remote computers may be logically connected to the computer system via a network interface, and subsequently physically connected via a communication connection. The network interface may encompass communication networks such as local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). LAN technologies include Fiber Distributed Data Interfaces (FDDI), Copper Distributed Data Interfaces (CDDI), Ethernet / IEEE 802.3, and Token Ring / IEEE 802.5. WAN technologies include, but are not limited to, point-to-point links, integrated services digital networks (ISDN) and their variations, circuit-switched networks, packet-switched networks, and digital subscriber lines (DSL).

[0029] In various embodiments, the computing device 100 may include an image processor, an image processing engine, a media processor, or any special digital signal processor (DSP) used for processing digital images. The image processor can increase speed and efficiency by using parallel computing with single-instruction, multiple data (SIMD) or multiple-instruction, multiple data (MIMD) techniques. The digital image processing engine can perform a variety of tasks. The image processor may be a system on a chip with a multi-core processor architecture.

[0030] The communication connection section may refer to hardware / software used to connect the network interface to the bus. For illustrative purposes, the communication connection section is shown as being inside the computing device 100, but it may also be external to the computing device 100. For illustrative purposes only, hardware / software required for connection to the network interface may include internal and external technologies such as modems including typical telephone-grade modems, cable modems, fiber optic modems, and DSL modems, ISDN adapters, and Ethernet cards. In some examples, the network interface may also be provided using an RF interface.

[0031] The computing device 100 may be used to perform stimulation and / or optimization of surgical stapler reloading. For example, reloading optimization simulation may be performed for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy procedures.

[0032] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a graphical user interface 2000 for simulating surgical activity. The simulated surgical activity may be selecting the type of surgical stapler cartridge for cutting a portion of an anatomical structure (e.g., surgical stapler reloading selection). The surgical stapler cartridge type may be selected according to the tissue thickness range. Different surgical stapler cartridge types are optical for use in different tissue thickness ranges. In the embodiment, the stapler cartridge type may include a long staple that is best suited for use in thicker tissues. In the embodiment, the stapler cartridge type may include a short staple that is best suited for use in thinner tissues. The tissue may correspond to a fragment of an anatomical structure, such as a portion of the stomach.

[0033] As shown in Figure 1, the graphical user interface 2000 may be presented via a computing device 100. The graphical user interface 2000 may include a first graphic representation 2002. The first graphic representation 2002 may represent a portion of an anatomical structure, such as a portion of the stomach. The graphical user interface 2000 may include a path 2004 for simulating surgical activity. The path 2004 may simulate the path of a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy staple line for cutting a portion of an anatomical structure (e.g., a cutting path that may be used by a bariatric surgeon). The path 2004 for surgical activity may be represented via a second graphic representation. The path 2004 may be superimposed on the first graphic representation 2002 (e.g., the path of a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy staple line may be superimposed on a portion of the stomach). Embodiments of creating the path 2004 on the graphical user interface will be described in more detail below in the description related to Figures 5A and 5B.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2, the device 100 can segment the path 2004 into multiple segments, such as segments 2005A to 2005F, on the graphical user interface 2000. Although six segments are shown in Figure 2, the path 2004 can be segmented into any number of segments. Each of segments 2005A to 2005F can be divided by a starting point (e.g., "1" in Figure 2) and five intersections (e.g., "2 to 6" in Figure 2). As shown in Figure 2, the identified starting point and five intersections can be surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. Although six surgical tool selection points are shown in Figure 2, there can be any number of surgical selection points corresponding to any number of segments. For example, segments 2005A and 2005B may be separated by surgical tool selection point 2006B (corresponding to point "2" shown in Figure 2), segments 2005B and 2005C may be separated by surgical tool selection point 2006C (corresponding to point "3" shown in Figure 2), and so on. Each of the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F may represent a point on the first graphic representation 2002 (e.g., a part of an anatomical structure). For example, surgical tool selection point 2006A may correspond to point "1" in Figure 2, surgical tool selection point 2006B may correspond to point "2" in Figure 2, surgical tool selection point 2006C may correspond to point "3" in Figure 2, and so on. Each point on the first graphic representation 2002 (e.g., a portion of an anatomical structure) may be associated with the tissue thickness (e.g., different tissue thicknesses) or other physiological properties of the first graphic representation 2002 (e.g., a portion of an anatomical structure). Reference tissue thickness points (not shown in Figure 2) may be displayed on the first graphic representation 2002 (e.g., a portion of an anatomical structure), and these reference tissue thickness points can assist the user in measuring the tissue thickness at each of the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F, and at specific points or regions on the first graphic representation 2002 (e.g., a portion of an anatomical structure).

[0035] The user may select one of the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F on the path 2004 (for example, in Figure 2, the user selects surgical tool section point 2006A). The device 100 may receive instructions for the selected surgical tool selection point from among the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F on the graphical user interface 2000. In response to receiving instructions, the device may present surgical tools 2010A to 2010E for selection at the selected surgical tool selection point. The surgical tools 2010A to 2010E may be various staple cartridge types (e.g., surgical stapler reload selection). Each surgical tool may be presented in a different color so that the user can easily distinguish between them.

[0036] In this embodiment, the user may use the surgical point selector 2008 to select surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. In this embodiment, selector 2008 may display "Reload 1", which corresponds to selecting from surgical tools 2010A to 2010E at surgical tool selection point 2006A. If the user selects the forward arrow on selector 2008, the selector may display "Reload 2", which corresponds to selecting surgical tools 2010A to 2010E at surgical tool selection point 2006B. The user may use selector 2008 to select from surgical tools 2010A to 2010E at each of the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. The user may use the back arrow on selector 2008 to confirm the previous selection, or to select a smaller number at surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. (For example, the user may click the back arrow, which may change the display of selector 2008 from "Reload 2," which corresponds to selecting from surgical tools 2010A to 2010E at surgical tool selection point 2006B, to "Reload 1," which corresponds to selecting from surgical tools 2010A to 2010E at surgical tool selection point 2006A, and so on.)

[0037] The device 100 may present a surgical range 2014 for selection at selected surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F on the graphical user interface 2000. The surgical range 2014 may represent a tissue thickness range for consideration when selecting at the selected surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. As shown in Figure 2, the tissue thickness range may be 1.0 to 4.0 mm, but any other tissue thickness range may be presented. The user may select a selected surgical range (e.g., a tissue thickness range) associated with the selected surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. The user may select the selected surgical range (e.g., a tissue thickness range) by dragging a slider 2012 to the desired range, or by other similar methods. The device 100 may present a first axis (e.g., a vertical axis) configured to represent the surgical range 2014 (e.g., a tissue thickness range) for selection on the graphical user interface 2000. The first axis may include a slider 2012. Instructions for the selected surgical range (e.g., tissue thickness range) may be received via the slider 2012. The device 100 may simulate surgical results 3004A to 3004C on a graphical user interface 2000 associated with selecting surgical tools 2010A to 2010E (e.g., as shown in Figure 3). The surgical tools 2010A to 2010E may be presented along a second axis (e.g., the horizontal axis) at the surgical tool selection point.

[0038] The device 100 may generate a graphic representation of at least one preferred surgical tool in response to receiving an instruction for a selected surgical range. The device 100 may also provide a visual representation of surgical tools 2010A to 2010E in response to receiving an instruction for a selected surgical range. In the embodiment, the device 100 may generate a graphic representation of at least one preferred surgical tool 2010A to 2010E. Surgical tools 2010A to 2010E may be presented along a second axis (e.g., a horizontal axis) which may be associated with an optimal tissue thickness range. The tissue thickness range of surgical tools 2010A to 2010E may include lower and upper limits corresponding to a surgical range 2014 presented along a first axis (e.g., a vertical axis). The tissue thickness ranges of surgical tools 2010A to 2010E can assist the user in selecting at least one of surgical tools 2010A to 2010E based on a selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness range). For example, the user may select a surgical range (e.g., tissue thickness range) of 3.3 mm (as shown in Figure 3). Since the selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness range) is within the tissue thickness range of surgical tool 2010D (2.0 mm to 3.3 mm as shown in Figure 2) and within the tissue thickness range of surgical tool 2010E (2.3 mm to 4.0 mm as shown in Figure 2), the user may be guided to select either surgical tool 2010D or surgical tool 2010E based on the selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness range) of 3.3 mm. As will be explained in more detail below, the user may select surgical tool 2010D or surgical tool 2010E depending on the user's desired surgical outcome 3004A-3004C (e.g., preference for perfusion).

[0039] The graphical user interface 2000 may include navigation control buttons 2016, alternative surgical tool toggles 2018, augmentation toggles 2020, resource buttons 2022, and reference and safety buttons 2024. The navigation control buttons 2016 may provide a drop-down menu for the user to select various menu options of the graphical user interface 2000, such as presentation options, color options, background options, etc. The alternative surgical tool toggles 2018 may trigger the graphical user interface 2000 to present a second set of surgical tools 7002A-7002C (shown in Figure 7) for selection at the selected surgical tool selection point (for example, surgical tools 2010A-2010E being the first set of surgical tools 2010A-2010E), which will be described in more detail below. The augmentation toggle 2020 may trigger the graphical user interface 2000 to calculate the augmented surgical range 6001 based on the selected surgical range and augmentation range 6002 (as shown in Figure 6), which will be described in more detail below. The resource button 2022 may include resources related to the simulation of surgical activity, learning aids related to the simulation of surgical activity, real-world evidence related to the simulation of surgical activity, and / or surgical videos related to the simulation of surgical activity. The criteria and safety button 2024 may include criteria and safety information for the simulation. Each of the navigation control button 2016, the alternative surgical tool toggle 2018, the augmentation toggle 2020, the resource button 2022, and the criteria and safety button 2024 may be presented with different symbols so that the user can easily distinguish these buttons.

[0040] Figure 3 illustrates an example of simulating surgical outcomes associated with selecting a surgical tool on the graphical user interface 2000. The device 100 can receive instructions for a selected surgical range displayed on the graphical user interface 2000 (as shown in Figure 2). In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical range (e.g., a selected thickness range), the device 100 can simulate surgical outcomes 3004A to 3004C associated with selecting a surgical tool 2010A to 2010E (e.g., surgical tool 2010D shown in Figure 3) on the graphical user interface 2000. In the example, the surgical tools 2010A to 2010E are stapler cartridge types (e.g., surgical stapler reload selections), and each stapler cartridge type (e.g., surgical stapler reload selection) is required to be used in different surgical ranges (e.g., different tissue thickness ranges) depending on the user's perfusion preference.

[0041] In the embodiment, simulated surgical results 3004A-3004C may represent simulated perfusion results associated with selecting a surgical tool (e.g., a stapler cartridge type) in response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical range (e.g., a selected tissue thickness range). Each of the simulated surgical results 3004A-3004C may be presented in a different color so that the user can easily distinguish between the simulated surgical results. In the embodiment, 3004A may represent "minimal perfusion," 3004B may represent "low perfusion," and 3004C may represent "moderate perfusion." "Minimal perfusion" may be the simulated surgical result when the selected surgical range (e.g., a selected tissue thickness range) is close to the upper end of the surgical range of surgical tools 2010A-2010E (for example, as shown in Figure 3, for surgical tool 2010D, a selected tissue thickness range of 3.3 mm would be the upper end of the tissue thickness range of 2.0 mm to 3.3 mm). "Low perfusion" may be a simulated surgical result when the selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness range) is close to the center of the surgical range for surgical tools 2010A-2010E (for example, for surgical tool 2010D, a selected tissue thickness range of 2.6 mm is close to the center of the tissue thickness range of 2.0 mm to 3.3 mm). "Moderate perfusion" may be a simulated surgical result when the selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness range) is close to the lower end of the surgical range for surgical tools 2010A-2010E (for example, for surgical tool 2010D, a selected tissue thickness range of 2.0 mm is close to the lower end of the tissue thickness range of 2.0 mm to 3.3 mm). Figure 3 shows three simulated surgical results, but any number of simulated surgical results are possible.

[0042] In the embodiment, 3004A (e.g., "minimal perfusion") may be a simulated surgical result for a selected surgical area (e.g., selected tissue thickness) associated with the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., stapler cartridge type). For example, if the selected surgical area is 3.3 mm (as shown in Figure 3) and the selected surgical tool is 2010D having a tissue thickness range of 2.0 mm to 3.3 mm (as shown in Figure 3), then 3004A (e.g., "minimal perfusion") may be a simulated surgical result (e.g., a simulated perfusion result). In the embodiment, 3004B (e.g., "low perfusion") may be a simulated surgical result for a selected surgical area (e.g., selected tissue thickness) associated with the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., stapler cartridge type). For example, if the selected surgical range is 3.3 mm and the selected surgical tool is 2010E with a tissue thickness range of 2.3 mm to 4.0 mm, then 3004B (e.g., "low perfusion") may be the simulated surgical result (e.g., simulated perfusion result). In the embodiment, 3004C (e.g., "moderate perfusion") may be the simulated surgical result for a selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness) associated with the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., stapler cartridge type). For example, if the selected surgical range is 1.9 mm and the selected surgical tool is 2010C with a tissue thickness range of 1.8 mm to 3.0 mm, then 3004C (e.g., "moderate perfusion") may be the simulated surgical result (e.g., simulated perfusion result). The simulated surgical results (e.g., perfusion results) 3004A-3004C can assist the user in selecting their desired surgical tool (e.g., desired stapler cartridge) within a selected surgical range (e.g., selected tissue thickness range) for a desired perfusion result (e.g., "minimal perfusion", "low perfusion", "moderate perfusion").

[0043] The device 100 can receive instructions for a selected surgical tool (e.g., a selected stapler cartridge or a selected surgical stapler reload type) at a surgical tool selection point on the graphical user interface 2000. In the embodiment, the user may select the selection tool button 3002 to indicate the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., surgical tool 2010D in Figure 3) at the surgical selection point.

[0044] Figure 4 illustrates an example of generating a surgical plan for each surgical tool selection point on the path 2004 for simulating surgical activity displayed in the graphical user interface 2000. The device 100 can generate a surgical plan for surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F on the path 2004 to perform surgical activity, in response to receiving instructions for selected surgical tools 2010A to 2010E at surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. The generated surgical plans for surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F may be displayed in the overview section 4002 on the graphical user interface 2000.

[0045] In the embodiment, the overview section 4002 on the graphical user interface 2000 may be depicted as “Your Reload,” which can generate a surgical plan for surgical tool selection pints 2006A–2006F. The surgical plan may show the type of surgical tool selected for each of the surgical tool selection points 2006A–2006F (e.g., surgical stapler cartridge type). Figure 4 shows six surgical tool selection points 2006A–2006F, but any number of surgical tool selection points may exist. As shown in Figure 4, the user may select “Overview” using the arrow on the surgical point selector 2008. If “Overview” is selected, the graphical user interface 2000 may generate the types of surgical tools to be selected, above the numbers of the surgical tool selection points (e.g., “1” for surgical tool selection point 2006A, “2” for surgical tool selection point 2006B, “3” for surgical tool selection point 2006C, “4” for surgical tool selection point 2006D, “5” for surgical tool selection point 2006E, and “6” for surgical tool selection point 2006F), and above each number in the overview section 4002. The overview section 4002 may provide the user with an overview of the simulated selected surgical tools (e.g., all) for performing the surgical activity along with the route 2004. In the embodiment, the outline selection 4002 may provide the user with an outline of (e.g., all) simulated stapler cartridge types (e.g., reloadable surgical stapler types) for use in performing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy along a staple line path for cutting a portion of an anatomical structure (e.g., a portion of the stomach). As shown in Figure 4, the outline section 4002 may provide the user with an outline of six (e.g., all six) selected surgical tools 2010A-2010E (e.g., stapler cartridge types or reloadable surgical stapler types) from six surgical tool selection points 2006A-2006F.

[0046] In the embodiment, a control signal may be generated for performing a surgical activity along a path 2004. The control signal may include instructions for a surgical tool selected at a surgical tool selection point. The control signal may include a surgical plan for surgical tool selection points 2006A–2006F on the path 2004 for performing the surgical activity. As shown in summary section 4002, the surgical plan may include selected surgical tools 2010A–2010E at surgical tool selection points 2006A–2006F. In the embodiment, the control signal may indicate a simulated stapler cartridge type (e.g., a reloadable surgical stapler type) for use in performing a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy along a staple line path for cutting a portion of an anatomical structure (e.g., a portion of the stomach). The control signal may be configured to indicate selected surgical tools 2010A–2010E (e.g., stapler cartridge type or reloadable surgical stapler type) at six surgical tool selection points 2006A–2006F. Control signals may be transmitted to a simulator outside of the device 100. The simulator may simulate performing surgical activities along a path 2004 for performing surgical activities. Based on the information provided by the control signals, the simulator may use the surgical tools selected at surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F. The simulator may be used to simulate surgery.

[0047] Control signals can be transmitted to a surgical control system. For example, a control signal may be configured to prompt a surgeon or surgical assistant to use the appropriate surgical tool at a corresponding surgical tool selection point. A control signal may be configured to control an autonomous surgical task. An autonomous surgical task may perform surgical activities using a simulated path 2004. Based on the control signal, the surgery may use selected simulated surgical tools at surgical tool selection points 2006A–2006F.

[0048] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an example of simulating a path on the graphical user interface 2000. The device 100 may be configured to allow the user to draw on a first graphic representation 2002 of the graphical user interface 2000. The first graphic representation 2002 may represent a part of an anatomical structure (for example, a part of the stomach). The user may select “Draw Path” using the arrow on the surgical point selector 2008 to draw on the first graphic representation 2002. When “Draw Path” is selected on the surgical point selector 2008, as shown in Figure 5A, a drawing symbol 5002 may be displayed on the graphical user interface 2000. The drawing symbol 5002 may inform the user that they can draw on the first graphic representation 2002.

[0049] As shown in Figure 5B, the user may draw the drawing path 5008 on the first graphic representation 2002. In the embodiment, the user may draw the drawing path 5008 by hand via a touchscreen, or by dragging a mouse, or by using other methods. The device 100 may receive instructions for the drawing path 5008 from the user. In response to receiving instructions for the drawing path 5008 from the user, the device 100 may overlay the drawing path 5008 on the first graphic representation 2002 via a second graphic representation on the graphical user interface 2000 (for example, as shown in Figure 5B). The user may select the clear button 5004 to clear the drawing path 5008 and then start over from the beginning to draw a different path. The user may select a continue button 5006 that prompts the device 100 to segment the drawing path 5008 (as described above, for example, in Figure 2) into a number of segments. Each segment may be divided by a starting point (e.g., "1" in Figure 2) and identified intersections (e.g., "2-6" in Figure 2), which may be surgical tool selection points (as described above, for example, in Figure 2).

[0050] Figure 6 illustrates an example of simulating a reinforcement range associated with a surgical range on a graphical user interface 2000. The reinforcement toggle 2020 can trigger the device 100 to calculate a reinforcement surgical range 6001 based on the selected surgical range and reinforcement range 6002 on the graphical user interface 2000. In response to receiving a command for the calculated reinforcement surgical range 6001, the device 100 may display the reinforcement surgical range 6001 along a first axis (e.g., a vertical axis) representing the surgical range 2014. The reinforcement surgical range 6001 may be within a range of tissue thickness associated with surgical tools 2010A to 2010E, different from the selected surgical range. The device 100 may simulate surgical results 3004A to 3004C (e.g., shown in Figure 3) associated with selecting surgical tools 2010A to 2010E on the graphical user interface (e.g., along a second axis or a horizontal axis). In the example, the reinforcement surgical range 6001 may be within a range of reinforced tissue thickness. In the examples, the simulated surgical results 3004A–3004C may represent simulated perfusion results associated with selecting a stapler cartridge type in response to receiving instructions for a reinforcement surgical range 6001 (e.g., reinforcement tissue thickness range). The reinforcement surgical range 6001 may result in surgical results 3004A–3004C that differ from the surgical results 3004A–3004C associated with the selected surgical range.

[0051] In the embodiment, 3004A (e.g., "minimal perfusion") may be a simulated surgical result of a reinforcement surgical range (e.g., reinforcement tissue thickness range) associated with the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., stapler cartridge type). In the embodiment, 3004B (e.g., "low perfusion") may be a simulated surgical result of a reinforcement surgical range (e.g., reinforcement tissue thickness range) associated with the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., stapler cartridge type). In the embodiment, 3004C (e.g., "moderate perfusion") may be a simulated surgical result of a reinforcement surgical range (e.g., reinforcement tissue thickness range) associated with the selection of a surgical tool (e.g., stapler cartridge type). The simulated surgical results 3004A to 3004C may assist the user in selecting their desired surgical tool (e.g., desired stapler cartridge) for their desired perfusion result (e.g., "minimal perfusion", "low perfusion", "moderate perfusion").

[0052] Figure 7 illustrates an embodiment in which a second set of surgical tools (e.g., an alternative set of surgical tools) is presented for selection on the graphical user interface 2000. The surgical tool toggle 2018 can trigger the device 100 to present a second set of surgical tools 7002A-7002C for selection at the selected surgical tool selection points 2006A-2006F, where surgical tools 2010A-2010E are the first set of surgical tools 2010A-2010E. The second set of surgical tools 7002A-7002C may represent a second set of stapler cartridge types corresponding to a different tissue thickness range than the first set of surgical tools 2010A-2010E. Each of the second set of surgical tools 7002A-7002C may be presented in a different color so that the user can easily distinguish between the surgical tools.

[0053] Each of the second set of surgical tools 7002A–7002C, presented along a second axis (e.g., the horizontal axis), may have a tissue thickness range. The tissue thickness range of each of the second set of surgical tools 7002A–7002C may include a lower and upper limit corresponding to the surgical range 2014 presented along the first axis (e.g., the vertical axis). The tissue thickness ranges of the surgical tools 7002A–7002C may assist the user in selecting a surgical tool 7002A–7002C based on a selected surgical range (e.g., a selected tissue thickness range).

[0054] The device 100 may receive instructions for a selected surgical area (shown in Figure 2) on the graphical user interface 2000. In response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical area, the device 100 may simulate surgical results 3004A to 3004C associated with selecting a surgical tool from a second set of surgical tools 7002A to 7002C (shown in, for example, Figure 3). In an embodiment, the simulated surgical results 3004A to 3004C may represent simulated perfusion results associated with selecting a stapler cartridge type from a second set of stapler cartridge types (e.g., surgical stapler reload selection) for a selected surgical area (e.g., selected tissue thickness range) in response to receiving instructions for a selected surgical area (e.g., selected tissue thickness range). In an embodiment, 3004A may represent "minimal perfusion", 3004B may represent "low perfusion", and 3004C may represent "moderate perfusion".

[0055] The device 100 can receive instructions for the selected surgical tool of the second set of surgical tools 7002A to 7002C at surgical selection points 2006A to 2006F on the graphical user interface 2000. In the embodiment, the user may select the selection tool button 3002 (as described above in Figure 3, for example) to indicate the selection of a surgical tool from the second set of surgical tools 7002A to 7002C at surgical selection points 2006A to 2006F.

[0056] In response to receiving instructions for selected surgical tools from a second set of surgical tools 7002A to 7002C at surgical selection points 2006A to 2006F, the device 100 may generate a surgical plan for the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F on the path 2004 to perform the surgical activity. The surgical plan may include each of the selected surgical tools 7002A to 7002C at selection points 2006A to 2006F, which may be displayed in the overview section 4002 on the graphical user interface 2000 (for example, shown in Figure 4). At each of the surgical tool selection points 2006A to 2006F, the device 100 may convert the selected surgical tools from the second set of surgical tools 7002A to 7002C to the surgical tools of the first set of surgical tools 2010A to 2010E.

[0057] The features and elements described above are presented in specific combinations, but each feature or element can be used alone without other features and elements, or in various combinations with or without other features and elements.

[0058] The processes described above may be implemented in computer programs, software, and / or firmware embedded in computer-readable media for execution on a computer and / or processor. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, electronic signals (transmitted via wired and / or wireless connections) and / or computer-readable storage media. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), registers, cache memory, semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as internal hard disks and removable disks, magneto-optical media, and / or optical media such as compact discs (CDs)-ROMs and / or digital versatile disks (DVDs).

[0059] [Implementation Method] (1) A device for simulating surgical activity, A processor is provided, and the processor is To present a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The method involves simulating the path of the surgical activity through a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. Determining multiple surgical tool selection points associated with selecting multiple surgical tools along the aforementioned path of the surgical activity, To present a surgical range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for the selected surgical area, An apparatus configured to generate a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area. (2) The processor The surgical outcome associated with selecting one of the multiple surgical tools at the aforementioned surgical tool selection point is simulated. The system receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the aforementioned multiple surgical tools, and The apparatus according to Embodiment 1, further configured to generate a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools. (3) The surgical result is a perfusion result, the plurality of surgical tools are a plurality of staple cartridge types, and the processor is The apparatus according to Embodiment 2, further configured to simulate the perfusion result associated with selecting a surgical tool from among the plurality of staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area. (4) The processor Obtain the selected surgical area and the associated reinforcement area, and The apparatus according to Embodiment 2, further configured to calculate a reinforcement surgical range based on the selected surgical range and the reinforcement range, wherein the simulated surgical result is determined based on the reinforcement surgical range. (5) The plurality of surgical tools are the first plurality of surgical tools, and the processor is A second set of surgical tools for selection at the selected surgical tool selection point is presented. In response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area, the surgical result associated with selecting one of the second plurality of surgical tools at the selected surgical tool selection point is simulated. The system receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from the aforementioned second set of surgical tools, and The apparatus according to Embodiment 1, further configured to generate a surgical plan of a plurality of surgical tool selection points along the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical tool from the plurality of second surgical tools.

[0060] (6) The processor The apparatus according to Embodiment 5, further configured to convert the selected surgical tool from the second plurality of surgical tools to a surgical tool from the first plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point. (7) The processor Presenting a first axis having a slider configured to represent the surgical range for selection, wherein the indication of the selected surgical range is received via the slider, The apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is further configured to simulate a surgical outcome associated with selecting one of the plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point based on the selected surgical range selected via the slider, wherein the plurality of surgical tools are presented along a second axis. (8) The surgical activity is a cutting path, the plurality of surgical tools are a plurality of staple cartridge types, the surgical range is a tissue thickness range, and the processor is Multiple surgical tool selection points are determined, associated with selecting multiple staple cartridge types along the aforementioned cutting path. The tissue thickness range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points is presented. Upon receiving instructions for the selected tissue thickness range, In response to receiving the instruction for the selected tissue thickness range, the surgical outcome is simulated as being associated with selecting one of the multiple staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point. The system receives instructions for a selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types, and The apparatus according to Embodiment 1, further configured to generate a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instruction of the selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types. (9) The processor Through a second graphic representation, based on the simulated path of the surgical activity, the path is segmented into six segments. The starting point and the five intersections between the six segments are identified as the multiple surgical tool selection points. The system receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the aforementioned multiple surgical tools, and The apparatus according to Embodiment 1, further configured to generate a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools. (10) The processor A graphical user interface is presented that is configured to allow the user to draw a portion of an anatomical structure on the first graphical representation. The system receives instructions from the user regarding the drawing path of a portion of the anatomical structure on the first graphic representation, and The apparatus according to Embodiment 1, further configured to superimpose the drawing path onto the first graphic representation of a portion of the anatomical structure.

[0061] (11) A method for simulating surgical activity, To present a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The method involves simulating the path of the surgical activity through a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. Determining multiple surgical tool selection points associated with selecting multiple surgical tools along the aforementioned path of the surgical activity, To present a surgical range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for the selected surgical area, A method comprising generating a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area. (12) Simulating the surgical result associated with selecting one of the multiple surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point, Receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the aforementioned multiple surgical tools, The method according to Embodiment 11, further comprising generating a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools. (13) The surgical result is a perfusion result, and the multiple surgical tools are multiple staple cartridge types. The method according to Embodiment 12, further configured to simulate the perfusion result associated with selecting a surgical tool from among the plurality of staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area. (14) Obtain the reinforcement area associated with the selected surgical area, The method according to embodiment 12, further comprising calculating a reinforcement surgical area based on the selected surgical area and the reinforcement area, wherein the simulated surgical result is determined based on the reinforcement surgical area. (15) The plurality of surgical tools is the first plurality of surgical tools, Presenting a second set of surgical tools for selection at the selected surgical tool selection point, In response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area, the simulation of a surgical outcome associated with selecting one of the second plurality of surgical tools at the selected surgical tool selection point, Receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool from the aforementioned second set of surgical tools, The method according to Embodiment 11, further comprising generating a surgical plan of a plurality of surgical tool selection points along the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical tool from the plurality of second surgical tools.

[0062] (16) The method according to embodiment 15, further comprising converting the selected surgical tool from the second plurality of surgical tools to a surgical tool from the first plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point. (17) Presenting a first axis having a slider configured to represent the surgical range for selection, wherein the indication of the selected surgical range is received via the slider, The method according to Embodiment 11, further comprising simulating a surgical outcome associated with selecting one of the plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point based on the selected surgical range selected via the slider, wherein the plurality of surgical tools are presented along a second axis. (18) The surgical activity is a cutting path, the plurality of surgical tools are of the plurality of staple cartridge type, and the surgical range is a tissue thickness range. Multiple surgical tool selection points are determined, associated with selecting multiple staple cartridge types along the aforementioned cutting path. The tissue thickness range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points is presented. Upon receiving instructions for the selected tissue thickness range, In response to receiving the instruction for the selected tissue thickness range, the surgical outcome is simulated as being associated with selecting one of the multiple staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point. The system receives instructions for a selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types, and The method according to Embodiment 11, further configured to generate a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instruction of the selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types. (19) Segmenting the route into six segments based on the simulated route of the surgical activity via a second graphic representation, Identifying the starting point and the five intersections between the six segments as the multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the aforementioned multiple surgical tools, The method according to Embodiment 11, further comprising generating a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools. (20) Presenting a graphical user interface configured to enable the user to draw on the first graphical representation of a part of an anatomical structure, Receiving instructions from the user for the drawing path of a portion of the anatomical structure on the first graphic representation, The method according to Embodiment 11, further comprising superimposing the drawing path onto the first graphic representation of a portion of the anatomical structure.

Claims

1. A device for simulating surgical activities, A processor is provided, and the processor is To present a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The method involves simulating the path of the surgical activity through a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. Determining multiple surgical tool selection points associated with selecting multiple surgical tools along the aforementioned path of the surgical activity, To present a surgical range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for the selected surgical area, In response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area, generate a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool. Simulating the surgical outcome associated with selecting a particular surgical tool from among the multiple surgical tools at the aforementioned surgical tool selection point, Receiving instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the aforementioned multiple surgical tools, A device configured to generate a surgical plan of the multiple surgical tool selection points along the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving instructions for the selected surgical tool from the multiple surgical tools.

2. The surgical result is a perfusion result, the multiple surgical tools are multiple staple cartridge types, and the processor is The apparatus according to claim 1, further configured to simulate the perfusion result associated with selecting a surgical tool from among the plurality of staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area.

3. The aforementioned processor, Obtain the selected surgical area and the associated reinforcement area, and The apparatus according to claim 1, further configured to calculate a reinforcement surgical range based on the selected surgical range and the reinforcement range, wherein the simulated surgical result is determined based on the reinforcement surgical range.

4. A device for simulating surgical activities, A processor is provided, and the processor is To present a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The method involves simulating the path of the surgical activity through a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. Determining multiple surgical tool selection points associated with selecting multiple surgical tools along the aforementioned path of the surgical activity, To present a surgical range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for the selected surgical area, The system is configured to generate a graphic representation of at least one preferred surgical tool in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, wherein the plurality of surgical tools are a first plurality of surgical tools, and the processor is A second set of surgical tools for selection at the selected surgical tool selection point is presented. In response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, the surgical result associated with selecting one of the second plurality of surgical tools at the selected surgical tool selection point is simulated. The system receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from the aforementioned second set of surgical tools, and The apparatus is further configured to generate a surgical plan of a plurality of surgical tool selection points along the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool from the plurality of second surgical tools.

5. The aforementioned processor, The apparatus according to claim 4, further configured to convert the selected surgical tool from the second plurality of surgical tools to a surgical tool from the first plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point.

6. A device for simulating surgical activities, A processor is provided, and the processor is To present a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The method involves simulating the path of the surgical activity through a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. Determining multiple surgical tool selection points associated with selecting multiple surgical tools along the aforementioned path of the surgical activity, To present a surgical range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for the selected surgical area, In response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area, generate a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool. Presenting a first axis having a slider configured to represent the surgical range for selection, wherein the indication of the selected surgical range is received via the slider, The apparatus is configured to simulate a surgical outcome associated with selecting one of the plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point, based on the selected surgical range selected via the slider, wherein the plurality of surgical tools are presented along a second axis.

7. A device for simulating surgical activities, A processor is provided, and the processor is To present a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The method involves simulating the path of the surgical activity through a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. Determining multiple surgical tool selection points associated with selecting multiple surgical tools along the aforementioned path of the surgical activity, To present a surgical range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points, Receiving instructions for the selected surgical area, The system is configured to generate a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical area, The surgical activity is a cutting path, the plurality of surgical tools are a plurality of staple cartridge types, the surgical range is a tissue thickness range, and the processor is Multiple surgical tool selection points are determined, associated with selecting multiple staple cartridge types along the aforementioned cutting path. The tissue thickness range for selection at one of the aforementioned multiple surgical tool selection points is presented. Upon receiving instructions for the selected tissue thickness range, In response to receiving the instruction for the selected tissue thickness range, the surgical outcome is simulated as being associated with selecting one of the multiple staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point. The system receives instructions for a selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types, and The apparatus is further configured to generate a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instruction for the selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types.

8. The aforementioned processor, Through a second graphic representation, based on the simulated path of the surgical activity, the path is segmented into six segments. The starting point and the five intersections between the six segments are identified as the multiple surgical tool selection points. The system receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the aforementioned multiple surgical tools, and The apparatus according to any one of claims 1, 4, 6, and 7, further configured to generate a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools.

9. The aforementioned processor, A graphical user interface is presented that is configured to allow the user to draw a portion of an anatomical structure on the first graphical representation. The system receives instructions from the user regarding the drawing path of a portion of the anatomical structure on the first graphic representation, and The apparatus according to any one of claims 1, 4, 6, and 7, further configured to superimpose the drawing path onto the first graphic representation of a portion of the anatomical structure.

10. A method for simulating surgical activity, The processor presents a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The processor simulates the path of the surgical activity via a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. The processor determines a plurality of surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a plurality of surgical tools along the path of the surgical activity, The processor presents a surgical range for selection at one of the multiple surgical tool selection points, The processor receives instructions for the selected surgical area, In response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, the processor generates a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool. The processor simulates the surgical result associated with selecting one of the multiple surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point, The processor receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the plurality of surgical tools, A method comprising: the processor generating a surgical plan for the selected surgical tool on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instructions for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools.

11. The aforementioned surgical result is a perfusion result, and the aforementioned multiple surgical tools are multiple staple cartridge types. The method according to claim 10, wherein, in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, the processor is further configured to simulate the perfusion result associated with selecting a surgical tool from among the plurality of staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point.

12. The processor obtains the selected surgical area and the associated reinforcement area, The method according to claim 10, further comprising the processor calculating an augmentation surgical range based on the selected surgical range and the augmentation range, wherein the simulated surgical result is determined based on the augmentation surgical range.

13. A method for simulating surgical activity, The processor presents a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The processor simulates the path of the surgical activity via a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. The processor determines a plurality of surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a plurality of surgical tools along the path of the surgical activity, The processor presents a surgical range for selection at one of the multiple surgical tool selection points, The processor receives instructions for the selected surgical area, The processor, in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, generates a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool, The aforementioned plurality of surgical tools are the first plurality of surgical tools, The method involves the processor presenting a second set of surgical tools for selection at the selected surgical tool selection point. In response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, the processor simulates a surgical result associated with selecting one of the second plurality of surgical tools at the selected surgical tool selection point. The processor receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from the second plurality of surgical tools, A method further comprising: in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical tool from the second plurality of surgical tools, the processor generating a surgical plan for a plurality of surgical tool selection points along the path of the surgical activity.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising the processor converting the selected surgical tool from the second plurality of surgical tools to a surgical tool from the first plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point.

15. A method for simulating surgical activity, The processor presents a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The processor simulates the path of the surgical activity via a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. The processor determines a plurality of surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a plurality of surgical tools along the path of the surgical activity, The processor presents a surgical range for selection at one of the multiple surgical tool selection points, The processor receives instructions for the selected surgical area, In response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, the processor generates a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool. The processor presents a first axis having a slider configured to represent the surgical range to be selected, wherein the instruction for the selected surgical range is received via the slider. A method comprising: simulating a surgical outcome associated with the processor selecting one of the plurality of surgical tools at the surgical tool selection point based on the selected surgical range selected via the slider, wherein the plurality of surgical tools are presented along a second axis.

16. A method for simulating surgical activity, The processor presents a first graphic representation of a part of an anatomical structure, The processor simulates the path of the surgical activity via a second graphic representation, wherein the path is superimposed on the first graphic representation. The processor determines a plurality of surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a plurality of surgical tools along the path of the surgical activity, The processor presents a surgical range for selection at one of the multiple surgical tool selection points, The processor receives instructions for the selected surgical area, The processor, in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical area, generates a graphic representation of at least one suitable surgical tool, The surgical activity is a cutting path, the multiple surgical tools are multiple staple cartridge types, and the surgical area is a tissue thickness range. The method involves the processor determining a plurality of surgical tool selection points associated with selecting a plurality of staple cartridge types on the cutting path, The processor presents the tissue thickness range to be selected at one of the multiple surgical tool selection points, The processor receives instructions for a selected tissue thickness range, In response to receiving the instruction for the selected tissue thickness range, the processor simulates a surgical outcome associated with selecting one of the multiple staple cartridge types at the surgical tool selection point. The processor receives instructions for a selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types, A method further comprising: in response to receiving the instruction for the selected staple cartridge type from among the plurality of staple cartridge types, the processor generating a surgical plan for the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity.

17. Based on the simulated path of the surgical activity via a second graphic representation, the processor segments the path into six segments. The processor identifies the starting point and the five intersections between the six segments as the plurality of surgical tool selection points. The processor receives instructions for a selected surgical tool from among the plurality of surgical tools, The method according to any one of claims 10, 13, 15, and 16, further comprising the processor generating a surgical plan of the plurality of surgical tool selection points on the path of the surgical activity in response to receiving the instruction for the selected surgical tool among the plurality of surgical tools.

18. The processor presents a graphical user interface configured to enable the user to draw a portion of an anatomical structure on the first graphical representation, The processor receives instructions from the user for the drawing path of a portion of the anatomical structure on the first graphic representation, The method according to any one of claims 10, 13, 15, and 16, further comprising the processor superimposing the drawing path onto the first graphic representation of a portion of the anatomical structure.

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