Oral suturing apparatus

Abstract

An oral suture device according to one disclosed embodiment comprises: an arm portion including a plurality of joints and a plurality of module arms connected to each other so as to be rotatable through the plurality of joints; a first fastening portion formed in the shape of a first plate at the end of the arm portion; a fastening portion connected to the first fastening portion and formed in the shape of a second plate corresponding to the first plate; and a discharge portion connected to the second fastening portion and rotatable so as to launch the suture core in a direction and position corresponding to a target according to user operation.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] This is about an oral suture device. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, active technological development is underway in the field of oral surgery to precisely and rapidly suture soft tissues. In particular, the accuracy and stability of suturing are directly linked to treatment outcomes in various procedures, such as implants, periodontal surgery, and post-extraction care.

[0004] Previously, manual suturing methods using sutures were primarily used; however, this method has disadvantages, such as results varying depending on the user's skill level and the need for prolonged work in a narrow space with limited visibility within the oral cavity. Additionally, due to the significant tissue movement and the humid environment, there are risks of tissue curling during suture application or inconsistent suture tension, which can lead to delayed healing and infection. Conventional manual suturing techniques could only be used at specific positions or angles, requiring cumbersome adjustments to the user's position and posture, as well as the position and direction of the device, depending on the location of the tooth to be treated. This resulted in increased procedure time and difficulty in securing a clear view. Accordingly, there is a need for a technology that allows suturing to be performed in the same manner without changing the direction or position of the device when treating teeth at any location within the oral cavity.

[0005] Furthermore, conventional suturing methods have limitations in that they are difficult to apply for inexperienced users, as they require the simultaneous use of both hands or complex manipulation procedures. Additionally, the process of looping and tying sutures during the procedure is repetitive and time-consuming, and the quality of the sutures tends to be inconsistent under tensioned tissue conditions. Accordingly, there is a need for a suturing device with a simple mechanism that allows the user to complete the suturing with minimal manipulation. Such a device induces stable results regardless of the user's skill level and can enhance the efficiency and reproducibility of the procedure. The problem to be solved

[0007] The present invention aims to provide an oral suturing device capable of performing suturing in the same manner without changing the direction or position of the device when treating teeth at any location within the oral cavity.

[0008] In addition, we aim to provide an oral suture device that can provide simple and consistent suturing regardless of the user's skill level or treatment situation by performing only simple operations without complex processes.

[0009] The problems solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0011] According to one aspect, an oral suture device is provided, comprising: an arm portion including a plurality of joints and a plurality of module arms connected to each other so as to be rotatable through the plurality of joints; a fastening portion including a first fastening portion configured in the form of a first plate at the end of the arm portion and a second fastening portion configured in the form of a second plate corresponding to the first plate and connected to the first fastening portion; and a discharge portion connected to the second fastening portion and rotatable so as to launch the suture core in a target direction and target position according to user operation.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the discharge portion may be detachable from the arm portion through the fastening portion.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the first plate and the second plate are parallel to each other and have a common axis in a vertical direction, and the discharge portion may be connected so as to be rotatable about a common axis with respect to the arm according to the angle at which the second fastening portion is rotated and coupled about the common axis with respect to the first fastening portion.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the first fastening member includes a plurality of first sub-fastening members arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the first plate, and the second fastening member may include a plurality of second sub-fastening members arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the second plate and coupled in correspondence with the plurality of first sub-fastening members.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the preset interval can be set at the same angle on the circumference.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first sub-fastening portion includes a coupling column protruding from the first plate; and a coupling projection disposed at the end of the coupling column and having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection in a direction parallel to the first plate, and the second sub-fastening portion may include an insertion hole on the second plate having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection; and a fixing hole disposed on the second plate continuously with the insertion hole, having a cross-section narrower than the cross-section of the coupling projection and wider than the cross-section of the coupling column.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the height of the connecting column in the direction perpendicular from the first plate may be equal to or longer than the height of the insertion hole and the height of the fixing hole.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the first fastening part and the second fastening part can be coupled as the coupling projection engages in the fixing hole when the first fastening part and the second fastening part are twisted and rotated around the common axis after the coupling projection is inserted through the insertion hole.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the second sub-fastening portion includes a coupling column protruding from the second plate; and a coupling projection disposed at the end of the coupling column and having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection in a direction parallel to the second plate, and the first sub-fastening portion may include an insertion hole on the first plate having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection; and a fixing hole disposed on the first plate continuously with the insertion hole, having a cross-section narrower than the cross-section of the coupling projection and wider than the cross-section of the coupling column.

[0020] According to one embodiment, each of the first plate and the second plate is an annular plate with an open center, and the oral suture device further includes a driving unit disposed inside the arm portion and transmitting a driving force generated by user operation through the open center to the discharge portion, and the discharge portion can receive the driving force and fire the suture core.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: a driving unit that receives a driving force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction at one end and rotates about a central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a driving unit that is connected to the other end of the driving unit and performs translational motion as the other end of the driving unit rotates, wherein the discharge unit may include one or more elastic bodies that are maintained by a housing and arranged parallel to the first direction, and a rod that is supported in a direction opposite to the first direction by the one or more elastic bodies and compresses and discharges the suture core in the first direction by the driving force received from the driving unit.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the driving unit may include n power transmission units (where n is a natural number greater than 1) that translate by the driving force, and n-1 direction switching units that connect each of the n power transmission units to each other and switch the direction of transmission of the driving force.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the driving member may further include a compression member that compresses the rod in a direction opposite to the first direction as the power transmission member closest to the rod moves in translation, and has a shape bent in the longitudinal direction of the power transmission member closest to the rod.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the driving unit may further include a link connected to the power transmission unit closest to the rod, which is engaged and secured in a groove provided on one side of the compression unit.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the oral suture device may further include a grip portion for gripping.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the first direction in which the suture core is ejected and the normal direction of the contact surface between the first plate and the second plate may form a preset angle.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the first plate and the second plate are parallel to each other and have a common axis in a perpendicular direction, and the first fastening part includes a plurality of first sub-fastening parts in a reference direction from a first reference position on a preset first path, and the second fastening part includes a plurality of second sub-fastening parts corresponding to the plurality of first sub-fastening parts in a reference direction from a second reference position corresponding to the first reference position on a preset second path corresponding to the first path, and the first direction may be determined according to the angle at which the plurality of second sub-fastening parts are rotated and coupled with the plurality of first sub-fastening parts around the common axis.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the discharge portion may be characterized by having a housing in which the length of one side and the length of the other side are adjusted differently.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the housing may be characterized by having a folded section with a curved shape repeated at arbitrary intervals.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the discharge portion may include a string that continuously penetrates the repeated bends in the longitudinal direction of the housing; and a lever rotatably provided on one side of the housing, which, when rotated, winds the string to compress a portion of the folded section. Effects of the invention

[0032] According to one disclosed embodiment, when treating a tooth at any location in the oral cavity, suturing can be performed in the same manner without changing the direction or position of the device.

[0033] In addition, by performing only simple operations without complex processes, it becomes possible to perform simple and consistent suturing regardless of the user's skill level or treatment situation.

[0034] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0036] The present disclosure can be easily understood from the combination of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, where reference numerals denote structural elements. FIGS. 1a to 1d are each perspective views showing an oral suture device in its entirety according to different embodiments. FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining that, according to one embodiment, the direction in which the suture core is ejected is adjusted according to the angle at which the fastening part is fastened. FIGS. 3a to 3c are drawings for explaining how the housing of the discharge part bends according to another embodiment. FIG. 3d is a drawing for explaining that, according to one embodiment, the housing of the discharge part is fixed by a locking device. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a connecting part connecting an arm and a discharge part according to one embodiment. FIG. 5a is a plan view for explaining the first fastening part of a fastening part according to one embodiment. FIG. 5b is a plan view for explaining the second fastening part of a fastening part according to one embodiment. FIG. 6a is a plan view for explaining the first fastening portion of a fastening portion according to another embodiment. FIG. 6b is a plan view illustrating a second fastening part of a fastening part according to another embodiment. FIGS. 7A and FIGS. 7B are drawings showing a cross-section of a driving unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a discharge section for explaining the discharge process of a suture core according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0037] Various embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below may be implemented in various different forms. In order to explain the features of the embodiments more clearly, detailed descriptions of matters widely known to those skilled in the art to which the following embodiments belong are omitted. Expressions in the singular form include the plural meaning unless explicitly stated otherwise. The terms used in the detailed description are merely for describing the embodiments of the present invention, and the invention is not limited to such terms. In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily depicted for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is depicted.

[0038] Furthermore, the terms described below are defined in consideration of their functions in the present invention, and these may vary depending on the intentions or practices of the user or operator. Therefore, their definitions should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0039] In this specification, terms such as “include” or “comprising” are intended to refer to certain characteristics, numbers, steps, actions, elements, parts or combinations thereof, and mean that other configurations may be included, rather than excluding other configurations, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0040] Additionally, in this specification, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first" or "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components shall not be limited by said terms. Such terms may be used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component.

[0041] Furthermore, in this specification, where one component is described as being "connected" to another component, this should be understood to include not only cases where the two components are directly physically or logically connected, but also cases where they are indirectly connected through the intervening of one or more other components. In other words, two components are considered to be "connected" even when signals, power, operation, or functions are linked through an intermediate component.

[0042] Additionally, in this specification, the terms “part” and “module” refer to components that perform specific mechanical operations or physical control functions, and these may be independent physical devices or may be implemented as hardware or a combination thereof that induces or supports mechanical operations as part of an overall device. “Part” and “module” may perform specific mechanical functions such as power transmission, position adjustment, pressure application, rotation, opening and closing operations, and may be operated by electronic control signals or may include independent driving mechanisms. In exemplary embodiments, “part” and “module” may include or be composed of physical parts such as gears, actuators, motors, cylinders, valves, link structures, etc., and may operate in conjunction with sensors, control circuits, or software for controlling them. Furthermore, the "parts" and "modules" described in this specification may include one or more sub-parts or modules according to their functional configurations, and may be divided according to specific functions to subdivide into a larger number of "parts" or modules, or combined with other functions to be integrated into a smaller number of "parts" or modules. Additionally, according to embodiments of the present invention, additional "parts" or modules may be added in addition to the existing configurations.

[0043] In this specification, "oral suturing device" may mean a device configured to allow a user to suture soft tissues within the oral cavity. The oral suturing device of the present invention may be designed to include a plurality of joints and rotatable fasteners so as to be able to precisely eject sutures in a desired direction without changing the orientation of the device itself or the user's posture.

[0044] In addition, the oral suturing device of the present invention can be operated such that a driving force is generated through a single operation of the operating part (e.g., a trigger method in which a trigger is pulled with a finger), and this driving force is transmitted along the driving part (power transmission part, direction change part, compression part, and link) to the discharge part to insert or fix the suture core into the tissue. The oral suturing device enables the user to perform suturing of consistent quality in a short time, regardless of the user's skill level or surgical environment, and can significantly improve surgical efficiency and safety, particularly in that it provides suturing without directly handling the thread.

[0045] In this specification, the "suture core" may be a component that is inserted into the affected area through the discharge portion of an oral suturing device and performs the function of physically joining incised or separated soft tissues. The suture core has a structure in which both ends curl inward or bend when pressed by an external force, and may be configured to bring the tissues to be sutured into close contact with each other by folding both sides inward and fixing them after penetrating the tissue.

[0046] For example, suture cores can generally be made of metal materials that possess excellent biocompatibility and sufficient mechanical strength. For instance, suture cores can be made of metals with low corrosion resistance and bioreactivity, such as stainless steel or titanium alloys. Additionally, if necessary, suture cores may be made of biodegradable materials (e.g., polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, etc.) that decompose and are absorbed within the human body after a certain period, allowing them to naturally disappear without the need for removal procedures after surgery.

[0047] For example, suture cores can be provided with specifications of various sizes and strengths depending on the distance between wound tissues to be sutured, tissue strength, healing conditions, etc. For example, if the distance between wound tissues to be sutured is large or the density and strength of the wound tissue are high, the suture core may be formed from a thicker and more rigid material. On the other hand, if the distance between wound tissues to be sutured is short and the wound tissue is soft, it may be manufactured with a thin and flexible structure.

[0048] In this specification, "target direction" may refer to the direction in which a suture core is inserted into the affected area through an oral suturing device. For example, the target direction may be the direction of the force applied to cause the suture core to penetrate or press against tissue to bond. Additionally, the target direction may be the target direction that the suture core is intended to reach. The target direction may vary depending on the shape, accessibility, and visibility conditions of the anatomical structures of the wound tissue that the operator wishes to suture. By configuring the fastening portion or arm of the oral suturing device to rotate or bend, the user can precisely adjust to the desired target direction without changing the position and orientation of the entire device.

[0049] In this specification, "target location" may refer to a point where a suture core must accurately reach and perform suturing through an oral suturing device. For example, the target location may be the edges at both ends of a gum incision site or a boundary where periodontal tissues have separated. For example, there may be two or more target locations, and the suture core may physically fix the wound tissues by penetrating between them or joining them in close contact.

[0050] In this specification, a "folding section" may be a structure comprising one or more of bends, creases, steps, folding grooves, and curved surface structures that are repeated at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction of the housing. The folding section may be implemented by being integrally molded into the housing or by connecting a plurality of members through joints or flexible materials. By applying an external force to the folding section, a certain part of the housing may bend in a direction such as forward, sideways, or downward. After bending in a certain direction, the folding section may be fixed by a restoring force, a locking device, etc.

[0051] Through the folding section, the user can precisely control the ejection direction of the suture core without moving the entire device, to suit narrow or irregular oral surgical environments.

[0053] FIGS. 1a to 1d are each perspective views showing an oral suture device in its entirety according to different embodiments.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1a, the oral suture device (100) may include an arm (110), a discharge part (120), a fastening part (130), an operating part (142), a grip part (152), and a finger loop (154). The oral suture device (100) illustrated in FIG. 1a is an example of an oral suture device (100) being constructed, and the oral suture device (100) may be implemented with more components than the illustrated components, or with fewer components.

[0055] The arm portion (110) may include a plurality of module arms (112-1, 112-2, 112-3) and a plurality of joints (114-1, 114-2, 114-3). The plurality of module arms (e.g., 112-1, 112-2, 112-3) are rotatably connected to each other through a plurality of joints (e.g., 114-1, 114-2, 114-3), so that the entire arm portion (110) can be bent into various shapes.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, when one joint (e.g., 114-1) is configured to bend downward and the subsequent next joint (e.g., 114-2) is configured to bend upward again, the direction of the discharge part (120) may be directed downward, while the operating part (142) and the grip part (152) may be positioned to be directed upward. In this case, the user can perform suturing work on a narrow or hard-to-access wound without forcibly twisting the wrist or arm.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, when multiple joints are bent in opposite directions, the entire arm (110) is bent in an S-shape or L-shape, allowing the discharge portion (120) to be inserted into a specific part of the oral cavity. In this case, the handle portion can be naturally positioned along the direction of the user's hand, so that the user can perform stable operation while maintaining the target direction of the suture core (200).

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, if only a specific joint (e.g., 114-3) is partially bent and adjusted, the direction in which the suture core (200) is ejected remains fixed while only the position of the control part (142) can be adjusted, which can be advantageous in a position where visibility is poor. The user can align the ejection part in the desired direction by bending the arm through the joint without bending their wrist.

[0059] These various rotational forms and arrangement examples, based on the configuration of multiple joints and modular arms, enable precise adjustment of the end of the suture device while minimizing the user's hand movements during dental procedures. As a result, user fatigue during the suturing process can be reduced, and suturing accuracy can be expected to improve.

[0060] Each module arm (e.g., 112-1) is formed with a hollow structure, and may accommodate a power transmission unit (see FIG. 7, 144-1, 144-2), a direction change unit (see FIG. 7, 146), or a compression unit (see FIG. 7, 148), which are part of the drive unit (140), inside.

[0061] The discharge unit (120) is configured to discharge a suture core and can discharge a suture core (200) by receiving a driving force generated by user operation. In an exemplary embodiment, the discharge unit (120) may be formed such that the direction in which the suture core (200) is discharged is parallel to the normal direction of the fastening unit (130). In another exemplary embodiment, the discharge unit (120) may be configured such that the direction in which the suture core (200) is discharged forms a preset angle with the normal direction of the fastening unit (130), so that the suture core (200) is fired along a preset circumference. A more detailed description of the discharge unit will be provided later through FIG. 8 below.

[0062] The fastening portion (130) may include a first fastening portion (132) and a second fastening portion (134). With the normal of the contact surface between the first fastening portion (132) and the second fastening portion (134) as the axis, the first fastening portion (132) is 360 with respect to the second fastening portion (134). o It can also be rotated and combined. (The above rotation is a relative concept, where the second fastening part (132) is 360 degrees relative to the first fastening part (132). o (It can also be said that they are rotated and joined.) The first fastening part (132) may include a plurality of first sub-fastening parts. The second fastening part (134) may include a plurality of second sub-fastening parts corresponding to the plurality of first sub-fastening parts. One first sub-fastening part and one second sub-fastening part may be joined to correspond with each other.

[0063] Each of the plurality of first sub-fastening parts and the plurality of second sub-fastening parts is arranged at a predetermined interval, so that the first fastening part (132) can be rotated and coupled with the second fastening part (134) at each predetermined angle interval relative to the first fastening part (132) using the common normal of the contact surface of the first fastening part (132) and the second fastening part (134) as the axis of rotation. A more detailed description of the fastening part (130) will be provided later through FIG. 4 below.

[0064] The control unit (142) is a part operated by the user and can generate a driving force by receiving a force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and rotating about a central axis. The generated driving force is transmitted to the discharge unit (120) so that the suture core (200) can be discharged.

[0065] The grip portion (152) may be configured to allow the user to grip the oral suture device (100).

[0066] The finger loop (154) may be configured to prevent the user's hand from slipping down when the user grips the grip portion (152), thereby supporting the oral suture device (100) more stably.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 1b, the discharge portion (120) may be connected to the first connecting portion (132) of the arm portion (110) through the second connecting portion (134). The first direction in which the discharge portion (120) discharges the suture core (200) may be positioned to form a preset angle with respect to the normal direction of the contact surface of the first connecting portion (132) and the second connecting portion (134). This may be distinguished from the example shown in FIG. 1a, in which the first direction and the normal direction of the contact surface are parallel.

[0069] According to the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the first direction in which the suture core (200) is ejected can be adjusted by adjusting the angle at which the first fastening part (132) and the second fastening part (134) are rotated relative to each other. Accordingly, the user of the oral suture device (100) can flexibly respond to various treatment positions within the oral cavity of patients. More specific details regarding adjusting the ejection direction (first direction) by adjusting the relative rotation angle between the first fastening part (132) and the second fastening part (134) will be described later through FIG. 3a.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 1c, the housing (122) of the discharge unit (120) may be formed to include a folding section so as to be bent in a certain direction according to an external force. As the housing (122) is formed to be bendable, the user can adjust the shape of the housing (122) according to their intention to change the direction and angle in which the suture core (200) is discharged. Specifically, the user can bend the housing (122) of the discharge unit (120) forward, sideways, or downward according to the procedure situation to adjust the direction and angle in which the suture core (200) is directed. As a result, the user can respond more flexibly to various intraoral environments or suture sites that are difficult to access.

[0072] Additionally, the discharge unit (120) may include a locking device (123) for maintaining the shape of the housing (122) in a constant state. The locking device (123) can fix the bent shape after the housing (122) is bent in a direction intended by the user, thereby preventing the housing from shaking unstably or deforming in an unwanted direction during the procedure. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking device (123) is applied to the bending section of the housing (122) to fix and maintain the bent shape of the housing (122) by means of internal frictional force or mechanical fastening force. More specific details regarding the locking device (123) will be described later through FIG. 3d below.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 1d, even when the discharge portion (120) is configured such that the normal direction of the fastening portion (130) and the discharge direction of the suture core (200) are not parallel, the housing (122) of the discharge portion (120) may be formed to include a folding section and be bent in a certain direction according to an external force, as in FIG. 1c. Since the housing (122) is formed to be bendable, the user can adjust the shape of the housing (122) according to their intention to change the direction and angle in which the suture core (200) is discharged. Specifically, the user can adjust the direction and angle in which the suture core (200) faces by bending the housing (122) of the discharge portion (120) forward, sideways, or downward depending on the surgical situation. As a result, the user can respond more flexibly to various intraoral environments or difficult-to-access suture sites.

[0075] Additionally, the discharge unit (120) may include a locking device (123) for maintaining the shape of the housing (122) in a constant state. The locking device (123) can fix the bent shape after the housing (122) is bent in a direction intended by the user, thereby preventing the housing from shaking unstably or deforming in an unwanted direction during the procedure. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking device (123) is applied to the bending section of the housing (122) to fix and maintain the bent shape of the housing (122) by means of internal frictional force or mechanical fastening force. More specific details regarding the locking device (123) will be described later through FIG. 3e below.

[0076] Accordingly, the user can finely adjust the angle of the ejection direction of the suture core (200) without moving the entire oral suturing device (100) or twisting the wrist excessively, so that the suturing procedure can be performed efficiently and stably even in a narrow and limited oral space.

[0078] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining that, according to one embodiment, the direction in which the suture core is ejected is adjusted according to the angle at which the fastening part is fastened.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 2, the discharge unit (120) can be connected to the first connecting unit (132) of the arm (110) through the second connecting unit (134). The first connecting unit (132) and the second connecting unit (134) can be joined by contacting one surface (hereinafter, contact surface) of each other. The first connecting unit (132) and the second connecting unit (134) can be joined by rotating relatively around the normal of the contact surface as a central axis. Accordingly, the first direction in which the discharge unit (120) discharges the suture core (200) is not fixed and can be adjusted to a circular path.

[0080] The illustrated radius (R) may be the radius of the path (circular) along which the end of the discharge portion (120) (the location where the suture core (200) is discharged) moves as the first connecting portion (132) and the second connecting portion (134) are rotated and joined relative to each other. The illustrated angle (d2) may be the angle between the direction in which the suture core (200) is discharged (first direction) and the normal direction of the contact surface between the first connecting portion (132) and the second connecting portion (134).

[0081] At this time, as the angle between (d2) increases, the first direction in which the suture core (200) is ejected can be further separated from the normal (rotation center axis) of the contact surface. Accordingly, the radius (R) of the path (circular) in which the end of the ejection part (120) moves can also increase. That is, as the angle between (d2) increases, the structure becomes such that the end of the ejection part (120) rotates further, so the ejection position of the suture core (200) can be adjusted to be larger.

[0082] Accordingly, the first direction in which the discharge part (120) discharges the suture core can be precisely adjusted in multiple directions without changing the overall direction of the oral suturing device (100). In addition, it can make the user's suturing work easier even in the narrow oral cavity where visibility is difficult.

[0084] FIGS. 3a to 3c are drawings illustrating the bending of the housing of the discharge unit according to another embodiment. The housing (122) of the discharge unit (120) may be configured to have a shape that changes according to user operation by including a folding section. The length of one side and the length of the other side of the housing (122) may be adjusted differently from each other.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 3a, the housing (122) of the discharge unit (120) may be configured to be perpendicular to the fastening unit (130) (parallel to the normal of the contact surface of the first fastening unit (132) and the second fastening unit (134). When the discharge unit (120) is configured as in FIG. 3a, the folded section of the housing (122) may be in a state of maximum compression. The suture core (200) is discharged in the same direction as the central axis of the module arm (112-1) closest to the discharge unit (120), and may be a reference position corresponding to a general surgical position.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 3b, the housing (122) of the discharge unit (120) may be bent laterally (left side relative to the user) along a folding section. When the discharge unit (120) is configured as in FIG. 3b, the folding section of the housing (122) may be compressed on one side of the housing (122) and stretched on the other side. The shape of the discharge unit (120) in FIG. 3b may be the result of the user manually bending the housing (122) to adjust the discharge direction of the suture core (200). When the housing (122) is bent laterally, the suture core (200) may be discharged in an angle-adjusted direction from a reference position.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 3c, the housing (122) of the discharge unit (120) may be bent laterally (to the right of the user) along a folding section. When the discharge unit (120) is configured as in FIG. 3c, the folding section of the housing (122) may be compressed on one side of the housing (122) and stretched on the other side. The shape of the discharge unit (120) in FIG. 3c may be the result of the user manually bending the housing (122) to adjust the discharge direction of the suture core (200). When the housing (122) is bent laterally, the suture core (200) may be discharged in an angle-adjusted direction from the reference position.

[0088] As illustrated in FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c, the housing (122) is configured to bend in various directions along the folding section, thereby allowing the user to freely adjust the shape of the discharge section (120) according to external force, and thus the discharge direction of the suture core (200) can be flexibly controlled according to the procedure situation. This structure enables fine positional adjustment without moving the entire oral suture device (100), especially in environments where space is narrow and access is difficult, such as inside the oral cavity, thereby enabling both convenience for the operator and precise suturing at the same time.

[0090] FIG. 3d is a drawing illustrating that, according to one embodiment, the housing of the discharge part is bent and fixed by a locking device.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3d, the discharge unit (120) may include a housing (122) having a folding section formed therein and a locking device (123) for fixing the shape of the housing (122). The locking device (123) may include a string (123-1) arranged along the outer side of the housing (122) and a lever (123-2) for operating the string (123-1).

[0092] The string (123-1) is positioned to penetrate a plurality of folded sections of the housing (122), and when the string (123-1) is pulled (tightened), it can serve to contract the folded sections.

[0093] The lever (123-2) may be configured to wind and pull the string (123-1) as it is rotated by the user. As the user rotates the lever (123-2), the user can form and fix any shape of the housing (122) (e.g., one or more curved shapes of FIG. 3c and FIG. 3d).

[0094] The user can bend the housing (122) in the desired direction and hold it, so that the discharge direction can be prevented from changing during the procedure.

[0096] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a connecting part connecting an arm and a discharge part according to one embodiment.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 4, the fastening portion (130) may include a first fastening portion (132) and a second fastening portion (134). The fastening portion (130) illustrated in FIG. 4 is an example of a fastening portion (130) being constructed, and the fastening portion (130) may be implemented with more components than the illustrated components, or with fewer components.

[0098] The first fastening portion (132) may include a first plate (132-1) and a plurality of first sub-fastening portions. Each of the plurality of first sub-fastening portions may include a coupling column (132-2) and a coupling projection (132-3). The coupling column (132-2) may be arranged in a column shape protruding from the surface of the first plate (132-1). At the end of the coupling column (132-2), a coupling projection (132-3) may be provided, the cross-section parallel to the contact surface between the first fastening portion (132) and the second fastening portion (134) may be larger than that of the coupling column (132-2). As the cross-section of the coupling projection (132-3) is wider than the cross-section of the coupling column (132-2), the first sub-fastening portion may be coupled to a second sub-fastening portion disposed on the second fastening portion (134).

[0099] The second fastening part (134) may include a second plate (134-1) and a plurality of second sub-fastening parts. Each of the plurality of second sub-fastening parts may include an insertion hole (134-2) and a fixing hole (134-3). The insertion hole (134-2) may be formed such that its cross-section is wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection (132-3) so that the coupling projection (132-3) can be inserted. The fixing hole (134-3) may be in communication with the insertion hole (134-2) on the second plate (134-1). In a direction perpendicular to the tangential direction in which the first fastening part (132) and the second fastening part (134) are twisted and rotated, the width of the fixing hole (134-3) may be narrower than the width of the insertion hole (134-2). Additionally, the width of the fixing hole (134-3) may be wider than the width of the coupling column (132-2).

[0100] According to the structure of the first fastening part (132) and the second fastening part (134) as described above, the connecting pillar (132-2) and the connecting projection (132-3) are inserted into the corresponding insertion hole (134-2), and when the first plate (132-1) is twisted and rotated, the connecting projection (132-3) is caught in the fixing hole (134-3) and can be fixed without falling off the second plate (134-1).

[0101] Additionally, each of the plurality of first sub-fastening parts may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the first plate (132-1). For example, each of the plurality of first sub-fastening parts may be arranged sequentially on the circumference in a clockwise direction with respect to the 12 o'clock direction as the 1-1 sub-fastening part, the 1-2 sub-fastening part, the 1-3 sub-fastening part, and so on. Each of the plurality of second sub-fastening parts may also be arranged on the second plate (134-1) in the same manner as above.

[0102] According to the above-described arrangement of equal spacing on the circumference, a specific first sub-fastening part (e.g., 1-1 sub-fastening part) is not necessarily coupled only with a second sub-fastening part of the same number (e.g., 2-1 sub-fastening part), but may also be coupled with a 2-2 sub-fastening part, a 2-3 sub-fastening part, etc., depending on the relative twisted rotation angle (with respect to the normal of the contact surface) of the first plate (132-1) and the second plate (134-1).

[0103] As such, since the corresponding number pairs between the first sub-fastening part and the second sub-fastening part are not fixed, the user can adjust the fastening angle along a preset interval of 360 by adjusting the relative rotation angle between the first fastening part (132) and the second fastening part (134). o It can also be changed.

[0104] Accordingly, the user can adjust the discharge part (120) more precisely and flexibly to adjust the target direction connecting the two ends to be sealed.

[0106] FIG. 5a is a plan view illustrating a first fastening portion (132) of a fastening portion according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 5a, the first fastening portion (132) includes a plurality of connecting pillars (132-2) and connecting protrusions (132-3), which may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of a first plate (132-1). The illustrated example is an embodiment in which the cross-section of the connecting protrusion (132-3) is formed in a circular shape.

[0107] FIG. 5b is a plan view illustrating a second fastening portion (134) of a fastening portion according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 5b, the second fastening portion (134) includes a plurality of insertion holes (134-2) and fixing holes (134-3), which may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the second plate (134-1). The illustrated example is an embodiment in which the cross-section of the insertion hole (134-2) is formed in a circular shape.

[0108] FIG. 6a is a plan view for explaining the first fastening part (132) of a fastening part according to another embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6a, the coupling projection (132-3) of the first fastening part (132) may have a cross-section formed in a polygon (e.g., a square).

[0109] FIG. 6b is a plan view for explaining a second fastening part (134) of a fastening part according to another embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6b, the insertion hole (134-2) of the second fastening part (134) can be formed to correspond to a corresponding shape so as to be coupled with a coupling projection (132-3).

[0110] FIGS. 5a, FIGS. 5b, FIGS. 6a, and FIGS. 6b are drawings showing various modified embodiments according to the shape of the coupling projection (132-3). The coupling projection (132-3) is not limited by these embodiments and can be implemented in various forms.

[0112] FIGS. 7A and FIGS. 7B are drawings showing a cross-section of a driving unit according to one embodiment.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 7, the driving unit (140) may include a first power transmission unit (144-1), a direction change unit (146), a second power transmission unit (144-2), a compression unit (148), and a link (147), and these components may be placed inside the arm of the oral suture device. The driving unit (140) illustrated in FIG. 7 is an example of the driving unit (140) being configured, and the driving unit (140) may be implemented by more components than illustrated, or by fewer components. The components of the driving unit (140) may be placed inside a plurality of module arms (112-1, 112-2, etc.) of the arm (110).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 7a, the driving unit (140) may include an operating unit (142), a first power transmission unit (144-1), a direction changing unit (146), a second power transmission unit (144-2), a link (147), and a compression unit (148). The operating unit (142) may be configured to rotate about a central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction as one end is pressed by a user. The first power transmission unit (144-1) may be connected to the other end of the operating unit (142) and configured to perform translational movement according to the rotation of the operating unit (142). The direction changing unit (146) may be configured to connect the first power transmission unit (144-1) and the second power transmission unit (144-2). The second power transmission unit (144-2) may be configured to enable translational movement. One end of the second power transmission unit (144-2) may be provided with a link (147) connected to a compression unit (148) for transmitting driving force to the discharge unit (120). (That is, the link (147) may be a connecting configuration that transmits the movement of the second power transmission unit (144-2) and the driving force therefrom to the compression unit (148).)

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7b, when an external force is applied to one end of the operating part (142) by a user, a driving force can be generated to launch a suture core (200) from the discharge part (120). When the user presses one end of the operating part (142) to rotate it, a driving force is generated to translate the first power transmission part (144-1). The driving force can be translated by changing the direction of transmission through the direction change part (146) to translate the second power transmission part (144-2). As the second power transmission part (144-2) translates, the link (147) connected to the end of the second power transmission part (144-2) can also translate together. As the link (147) translates, the compression part (148) to which the link is attached can also translate. The compression unit (148) can transmit the received driving force to the discharge unit (120) to discharge the suture core (200). Specifically, when the compression unit (148) descends (translates the rod (124) of the discharge unit (120) in the first direction in which the suture core (200) is discharged), the suture core (200) can be ejected from the discharge unit (120).

[0116] As the rod (120) of the discharge unit (120) moves in a first direction, the suture core (200) caught on the support jaw can be bent and discharged. A more specific description regarding the discharge unit (120) firing the suture core (200) will be described later through FIG. 8 below.

[0117] According to this drive structure, a driving force is generated when the user pulls the control unit (142) only once, and since the driving force is transmitted to the discharge through a series of drive unit components in a single motion, a semi-automatic method is implemented in which suturing is performed quickly. Stable procedures are possible without complex suture suturing or two-hand operation, and since the arm is composed of multiple joints and can bend according to the procedure environment, the user can perform precise suturing in the desired direction without changing their arm or posture.

[0119] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a part of a driving unit and a discharge unit to explain the operation of an oral suture device according to one embodiment.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 8, the discharge unit (120) may include a housing (122), a rod (124), an elastic body (126), and a support jaw (128). The discharge unit (120) illustrated in FIG. 8 is an example of a discharge unit (120) being constructed, and the discharge unit (120) may be implemented with more components than illustrated, or with fewer components.

[0121] The discharge unit (120) can perform the function of discharging the suture core (200) to the outside. The discharge unit (120) can be positioned at the end of the oral suturing device (100) where the final suturing is performed. The discharge unit (120) has a fixed shape and structure, but can be configured to be replaceable depending on the surgical environment or the characteristics of the wound tissue to be sutured.

[0122] In an exemplary embodiment, the dispensing unit (120) may be configured to use the suture core (200) once and may be provided to be replaced before and after performing suturing. Additionally, the dispensing unit (120) may be provided to be replaced when changing the type of suture core. In other words, the dispensing unit (120) may be provided in a modular manner to replace the suture core (200).

[0123] The type of suture core (200) may vary depending on the spacing of the area to be sutured, the healing speed, the thickness of the tissue, etc. Accordingly, the dispensing part (120) may be provided to be suitable for stably fixing or dispensing the suture core (200). For example, if the spacing between the wound tissues to be sutured is wide and includes thick tissue, a thicker and stronger suture core must be used, and a structure of the dispensing part (120) suitable for this may be required. Likewise, if the spacing between the wound tissues to be sutured is narrow and consists of soft tissue, a thin and flexible suture core is required, and in this case, the dispensing part (120) may be provided to enable more delicate movements.

[0124] The housing (122) forms the outer casing of the discharge section (120), accommodates a rod (124) and an elastic body (126) inside, and may be configured to form a support projection (128) on one side that supports a suture core (200).

[0125] The rod (124) is configured to press the suture core (200) and can be supported by the elastic force of the elastic body (126) in the upper part (opposite to the direction in which the suture core (200) is fired) within the housing (122).

[0126] The elastic body (126) resists the downward movement of the rod (124) (in the direction in which the suture core (200) is ejected) and can support the rod (124) in an upward direction.

[0127] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the driving force is generated by the rotation of the operating part (142) and reaches the compression part (148) through the first power transmission part (144-1), the direction change part (146), and the second power transmission part (144-2). At this time, the compression part (148) directly presses the upper part of the rod (124) through the link (147), and accordingly, the rod (124) can perform a downward movement. The compression length (d1) shown in the drawing is the depth to which the rod (124) is pressed by this driving force, and the suture core (200) can be pushed downward and discharged from inside the housing (122) by this length.

[0128] At this time, the rod (124) presses the upper surface of both ends of the suture core (200) and can deform the two ends of the suture core (200) into a structure that bends inward as they collide with the support jaw (128).

[0130] With this configuration, the user can rapidly eject the suture core (200) with a single operation (e.g., like pulling a trigger). As a result, the user can efficiently perform suturing work in a narrow oral cavity without using both hands, and can eliminate complex manual procedures, thereby reducing working time and ensuring uniformity in suturing quality. Accordingly, the efficiency and precision of the suturing procedure can be increased.

[0132] Although representative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined by the claims set forth below as well as equivalents thereof. Explanation of the symbols

[0134] 100: Oral sutures 110: Ambu 110-1: 1st Arm 112-1, 112-2, 112-3: Module arms 114-1, 114-2. 114-3: Joints 120: Discharge section 122: Housing 123: Locking device 123-1: String 123-2: Lever 124: Load 126: Elastomer 128: Support jaw d1: Compression length 130: Connecting part 132: First connecting part 132-1: First Plate 132-2: Connecting Column 132-3: Connecting protrusion 134: Second connecting part 134-1: Second Plate 134-2: Insertion hole 134-3: Fixing hole 140: Drive unit 142: Control Panel 144: Power transmission unit 146: Direction change section 147: Link 148: Compression section 152: Grip section 154: Finger loop

Claims

Claim 1 An oral suture device comprising: an arm portion including a plurality of joints and a plurality of module arms connected to each other so as to be rotatable through the plurality of joints; a fastening portion including a first fastening portion configured in the form of a first plate at the end of the arm portion and a second fastening portion configured in the form of a second plate corresponding to the first plate and connected to the first fastening portion; and an ejection portion connected to the second fastening portion and rotatable so as to fire the suture core in a direction and position corresponding to the target according to user operation. Claim 2 In claim 1, the discharge portion is an oral suture device that is detachable from the arm portion through the fastening portion. Claim 3 An oral suture device according to claim 1, wherein the first plate and the second plate are parallel to each other and have a common axis in a vertical direction, and the discharge portion is connected so as to be rotatable about a common axis with respect to the arm according to the angle at which the second fastening portion is rotated and coupled about the common axis with respect to the first fastening portion. Claim 4 An oral suture device according to claim 1, wherein the first fastening portion comprises a plurality of first sub-fastening portions arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the first plate, and the second fastening portion comprises a plurality of second sub-fastening portions arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the second plate and coupled in correspondence with the plurality of first sub-fastening portions. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the above-mentioned preset interval is an oral suture device set at the same angle on the circumference. Claim 6 In claim 4, the first sub-fastening portion comprises a coupling column protruding from the first plate; and a coupling projection disposed at the end of the coupling column and having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection in a direction parallel to the first plate, and the second sub-fastening portion comprises an insertion hole on the second plate having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection; and a fixing hole disposed on the second plate continuously with the insertion hole and having a cross-section narrower than the cross-section of the coupling projection and wider than the cross-section of the coupling column, an oral suture device. Claim 7 In claim 6, the height of the connecting column in the direction perpendicular from the first plate is equal to or longer than the height of the insertion hole and the height of the fixing hole, an oral suture device. Claim 8 In claim 6, the first fastening part and the second fastening part are joined as the connecting protrusion engages in the fixing hole when the first fastening part and the second fastening part are twisted and rotated around the common axis after the connecting protrusion is inserted through the insertion hole. Claim 9 An oral suture device according to claim 1, wherein the second sub-fastening portion comprises a coupling column protruding from the second plate; and a coupling projection disposed at the end of the coupling column and having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection in a direction parallel to the second plate, and the first sub-fastening portion comprises an insertion hole on the first plate having a cross-section wider than the cross-section of the coupling projection; and a fixing hole disposed on the first plate continuously with the insertion hole and having a cross-section narrower than the cross-section of the coupling projection and wider than the cross-section of the coupling column. Claim 10 In claim 1, each of the first plate and the second plate is an annular plate with an open center, and the oral suture device further includes a driving unit disposed inside the arm portion and transmitting a driving force generated by user operation through the open center to the discharge portion, and the discharge portion receives the driving force and fires the suture core. Claim 11 An oral suture device according to claim 1, further comprising: a control unit that receives a driving force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction at one end and rotates about a central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a driving unit including one or more power transmission units connected to the other end of the control unit and performing translational motion as the other end of the control unit rotates, wherein the discharge unit comprises one or more elastic bodies maintained by a housing and arranged parallel to the first direction, and a rod supported in a direction opposite to the first direction by the one or more elastic bodies and compressing and discharging the suture core in the first direction by the driving force received from the driving unit. Claim 12 An oral suture device according to claim 11, wherein the driving unit comprises n power transmission units (where n is a natural number greater than 1) that translate by the driving force, and n-1 direction switching units that connect each of the n power transmission units to each other and switch the direction of transmission of the driving force. Claim 13 An oral suture device according to claim 11, wherein the driving member has a shape bent in the longitudinal direction of the power transmission member closest to the rod and the first direction, and further includes a compression member that compresses the rod in a direction opposite to the first direction as the power transmission member closest to the rod moves in translation. Claim 14 In claim 13, the above driving unit further comprises a link connected to a power transmission unit closest to the rod, which is engaged and secured in a groove provided on one side of the compression unit. Claim 15 In claim 11, an oral suture device further comprising a grip portion for gripping the oral suture device. Claim 16 An oral suture device according to claim 1, wherein the first direction in which the suture core is ejected and the normal direction of the contact surface between the first plate and the second plate form a preset angle. Claim 17 An oral suture device according to claim 16, wherein the first plate and the second plate are parallel to each other and have a common axis in a perpendicular direction, the first fastening part includes a plurality of first sub-fastening parts in a reference direction from a first reference position on a preset first path, and the second fastening part includes a plurality of second sub-fastening parts corresponding to the plurality of first sub-fastening parts in a reference direction from a second reference position corresponding to the first reference position on a preset second path corresponding to the first path, and the first direction is determined according to the angle at which the plurality of second sub-fastening parts are rotated and joined with respect to the plurality of first sub-fastening parts around the common axis. Claim 18 An oral suture device according to claim 1, wherein the discharge portion comprises a housing in which the length of one side and the length of the other side are adjusted differently. Claim 19 An oral suture device according to claim 18, wherein the housing is characterized by having a folded section with a repeated curved shape at arbitrary intervals. Claim 20 An oral suture device according to claim 19, wherein the discharge portion comprises: a string that continuously penetrates the repeated bends in the longitudinal direction of the housing; and a lever rotatably provided on one side of the housing, which, when rotated, winds the string to compress a portion of the folded section.

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