Medical fluid pump with remote support possibilities

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating mode of a medical device for providing support and device training by a service officer connected through a data line. The invention relates in particular to the simulation of the operating state of gas injectors by means of a computer located in another place, for example in a training center. The invention also relates to the simulation of the operating state of a medical liquid pump by means of a computer located in another place, for example in a training center.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an operating mode of a medical device for support by a service specialist connected via a data line and for device training. Background Art

[0002] Remote support or remote maintenance has long been known, for example from DE 2350371 C3 "Method and device for checking and maintaining a data processing system by means of a remote maintenance station" The possibility of connecting via an existing network connection has also been described, for example, see US 6473788B1 "Remote maintenance and servicing of a network peripheral device over the world wide web" or EP1450542B1 "Remote maintenance and servicing of a network peripheral device over the world wide web". Other prior arts have been proposed in documents WO2012 / 040221 A2, WO 2013 / 091814 A2 and US2017 / 0173276A1.

[0003] Solutions for training or product training via such network connections or Internet connections have not yet been proposed. In this context, it is particularly necessary to prevent settings that are harmful to the patient via the remote connection, thereby protecting the patient. It is also necessary to prevent unauthorized intervention from the outside during the treatment process. In this context, there is a risk that influences can be recognized on site (by observing the patient or by viewing the equipment used at the same time, such as anesthesia monitors), but the remote user cannot reliably understand these influences. Therefore, it is necessary to reliably exclude the control or use of equipment via remote connections when treating patients.

[0004] Solution of the present invention

[0005] The present invention firstly relates to an insufflation machine for minimally invasive surgery, which is configured to allow support, in particular simulation of operating conditions, from a remote location.

[0006] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to an insufflation machine for minimally invasive surgery, comprising

[0007] a) Gas connection with proportional valve,

[0008] b) First trocar

[0009] c) a gas feed line for gas from a gas connection, with a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar,

[0010] d) a suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0011] e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0012] f) electronic regulating unit,

[0013] g) a display device,

[0014] h) interfaces to remote computers,

[0015] wherein the electronic adjustment unit transmits the current settings of the gas injection machine to the remote computer via the interface,

[0016] The remote computer simulates the treatment of the patient and transmits the operating values ​​obtained from the simulation back to the gas injection machine through the interface.

[0017] The display unit of the gas injection machine displays the simulated operating values.

[0018] In principle, the insufflation machine is a medical device that has been described in various technical solutions in the prior art. Therefore, the components and functions will not be described in detail here.

[0019] In an embodiment of the insufflation machine according to the invention, the insufflation machine comprises an interface to a remote computer, ie a computer located elsewhere.

[0020] Thus, the distance between the insufflator and the remote computer can be practically arbitrary. Thus, an insufflator located in a hospital can be connected to a computer located, for example, in a training center of the insufflator manufacturer. The corresponding transmission protocols are basically known, including for secure transmission. The remote computer simulates the treatment as described below and transmits the operating values ​​obtained according to the simulation back to the insufflator. In this way, the personnel can become familiar with the operation of the insufflator.

[0021] For patient safety, it is common to display on the insufflator that the device is operating in simulation mode. In this case, this can be displayed visually and / or audibly.

[0022] During the simulation, it is preferably ensured that the gas flow of the insufflation machine is completely blocked, so as to avoid the simulation accidentally implementing an abnormal operating state on the current patient. However, in a specific embodiment of the invention, the insufflation machine can also be connected to a prosthesis to test more functions. A prosthesis is an artificial test object, which has similar properties to the human body part connected to the medical device. It can be, for example, an elastic airbag that can be expanded like the abdomen. It can of course also be a human model (optionally equipped with sensors) with the same height and weight conditions as a person, with corresponding cavities that can be expanded by means of gas or liquid. In the operating mode using a prosthesis, for example, the hose can be replaced in the simulation of hose occlusion, and the process under unsealed conditions is also allowed. However, in this operating mode, before the actual gas flow is generated, it is necessary to ensure that the prosthesis is actually connected and not the patient. This can be achieved, for example, as follows: the hose and the prosthesis are equipped with a specific data carrier for the simulation mode. In this case, for example, an RFID module can be used, which sends a signal to the insufflation machine, indicating that a specific simulation hose and prosthesis have been connected.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the invention, the remote computer is connected to a second insufflation machine of identical structure. This insufflation machine of identical structure can be connected to the prosthesis, for example. In this embodiment, the simulation can be carried out with the aid of this second insufflation machine of identical structure, and the operating values ​​(such as pressure, volume flow, etc.) measured in the simulation can be transmitted back to the first simulator.

[0024] As an alternative to the embodiment involving a second gas insulator of identical construction, the simulation can of course also be carried out in software. This software is usually run on a second computer, so that the operating conditions can be simulated remotely, for example by trainers in a training center of the gas insulator manufacturer. In this way, the trainers can teach the operation of the gas insulator, including error correction or elimination of abnormal operating conditions (for example due to hose blockage).

[0025] Preferably, during the simulation, in addition to the data connection, there is also a voice or video connection between the trainer and the operator of the insufflation machine (e.g. a doctor). Preferably, a video conferencing tool can be used for this purpose, which can also be integrated in the insufflation machine. In this way, the trainer can recognize operating errors and correct them.

[0026] In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the software for simulating the operating state can also be executed directly on the insufflation machine. In this case, it must also be ensured that no patient is connected to the insufflation machine during the simulation. Similar to the above solution, in this case, the gas flow can also be completely blocked or safety measures can be taken to ensure that only a prosthesis is connected to the insufflation machine. In this case, the simulated operating state is transmitted to a remote computer (for example, located in a training center) so that the trainer can monitor the simulation. In this case, it is also recommended to establish a voice connection or a video connection with the trainer in order to monitor the simulation and correct any errors that may occur.

[0027] Therefore, the present invention also relates to a gas insufflation machine for minimally invasive surgery, comprising

[0028] a) Gas connection with proportional valve,

[0029] b) First trocar

[0030] c) a gas feed line for gas from a gas connection, with a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar,

[0031] d) a suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0032] e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0033] f) electronic regulating unit,

[0034] g) a display device,

[0035] h) interfaces to remote computers,

[0036] Therein, a software is run in the electronic regulating unit, which simulates the treatment of the patient based on the current settings of the insufflation machine and displays the operating values ​​obtained according to the simulation on the display unit of the insufflation machine and on the remote computer.

[0037] The solution according to the invention therefore consists in a specific operating mode in which no expansion medium can be introduced into the patient's body or removed from the patient's body.

[0038] In this preferred operating mode, all steps triggered by the user on this device are only displayed on the input / operating interface of the medical product, and do not control the corresponding actuators in the device. In other words, the device is used purely for simulation operation. In this case, the operating interface is preferably attached with a clearly recognizable visual signal, such as a "training mode" watermark or a specific color of the operating interface. As an alternative or supplementary solution, the training status can be displayed by an auditory signal, for example, the sentence "Training mode-press exit to return to patient treatment" is repeatedly played when a button is pressed. This signal prompt is used to prevent the user from thinking that the patient can be treated in the current mode.

[0039] The solution according to the invention requires a network connection at the device. This can be designed as an Internet connection or another connection to a network in which the remote technician or expert establishes a data connection with the device. Optionally, this technician also establishes a voice / video connection with the user of the medical device to be trained or supported.

[0040] In the "remote training" embodiment, the user input is received and converted into calculated display values ​​by either a sequential control system stored in the device or a remote computer through a remote connection to the sequential control system. These display values ​​are accompanied by an explanation of the changes that have occurred, which is in text form, as an audio playback, or given by a remote technician or expert. The time flow not only includes the expected and to-be-realized characteristics, but also faults and unexpected display values, so as to train the user on fault search, troubleshooting and countermeasures in unexpected states. According to the invention, an audio / voice connection with a technician can be established through the medical device. According to the invention, an audio / voice connection or a video conference can also be established in parallel by the teaching staff. In both cases (establishing an audio / voice connection through the medical device, or using a parallel establishment scheme), the teaching staff can remotely access the operating interface of the medical device, that is, they can see the display observed by the user, and can also influence its value, interact or start a training unit, which processes specific display values ​​and user inputs. According to the invention, in the case of interaction by the remote teaching staff, their interaction is displayed visually, for example, with a mouse cursor or a finger icon pointing to the operated element.

[0041] The invention also relates to a computer program that runs on a remote computer and simulates the implementation of a medical procedure, i.e., accepts user input and generates messages in a time sequence according to set situations, or on a medical device, which do not correspond to a common process but are used to impart knowledge, or simulates common characteristics of a medical device, including the generation of fault situations or critical states, and trains the user on solutions. For example, the message "Hose set is blocked!" can be displayed, whereby the user is presented with treatment options for selection. This can be done on a touch screen of the medical device or by the name of the option on an operating element (e.g. a key with a microswitch arranged at the edge of the screen).

[0042] The knowledge imparted through this computer program covers all the knowledge required in product training:

[0043] ● Debugging of medical equipment,

[0044] ●The meaning of the display,

[0045] ● Available settings and their storage

[0046] ●Saved options or presets,

[0047] ● The processes in the medical procedure are respectively for the typical steps performed by the medical device.

[0048] ●Possible fault messages, alarms, warnings and their meanings,

[0049] ● Eliminate the conditions that cause fault messages or poor performance of the medical device,

[0050] ● Demonstrate visual and auditory signals, responses to signals,

[0051] ●And others.

[0052] The invention also proposes a "support" operating mode, in which the user can contact an external expert in critical situations, who can evaluate the observed and interpreted situation and view all device parameters including the operating interface, but cannot set them. This "support" mode is subject to certain restrictions, so as to exclude the treatment of the patient, i.e., only one information transmission direction (from the medical device to the outside) is allowed when a request is made during a medical procedure involving the treatment of the patient.

[0053] In a further development of the invention, in order to control the device via an externally connected device, a message can be acknowledged on the medical device or an associated operating element can be pressed, thereby authorizing the execution.

[0054] In a further operating mode, “Service”, the medical device can be connected to a service center in order to run new operating software / update there or to read data about the status of the medical device via a connection of the medical device to devices in the service center.

[0055] According to the present invention, this connection requires various security measures, including:

[0056] ●Read the serial number or unique identification feature of a medical device,

[0057] ●End-to-end encryption of all data sent and received,

[0058] Sending commands to specific hardware components and analyzing the responses generated during execution, such as components that are able to generate specific code as an answer to a request (such as so-called Crypto chips),

[0059] • Operating software updates are performed only after on-site interaction (eg, a button press by the user), thereby avoiding accidental updates during medical procedures.

[0060] Other security elements in the prior art are also applicable to the present invention.

[0061] The invention can also be implemented in other forms, for example in arthroscopy, in which a fluid is pumped into the joint by means of a controlled irrigation pump (eg a roller pump) in order to achieve dilation.

[0062] Therefore, the present invention also relates to a medical fluid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising

[0063] a) liquid reservoir,

[0064] b) First trocar

[0065] c) a liquid feed line for liquid from the reservoir, with a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and a connector to the first trocar,

[0066] d) Liquid suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0067] e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0068] f) electronic regulating unit,

[0069] g) a display device,

[0070] h) interfaces to remote computers,

[0071] wherein the electronic regulating unit transmits the current setting of the medical fluid pump to the remote computer via the interface,

[0072] The remote computer simulates the treatment of the patient and transmits the operating values ​​obtained from the simulation back to the medical fluid pump through the interface.

[0073] Therein, the display unit of the medical fluid pump displays simulated operating values.

[0074] Medical fluid pumps are in principle medical devices that have been described in various technical solutions in the prior art. Therefore, each component and function will not be described in detail here.

[0075] The function and operation of the medical liquid pump according to the present invention correspond to the aforementioned insufflation machine, so they will not be described in detail here.

[0076] Similarly, the present invention also relates to a medical liquid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising

[0077] a) liquid reservoir,

[0078] b) First trocar

[0079] c) a liquid feed line for liquid from the reservoir, with a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and a connector to the first trocar,

[0080] d) Liquid suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0081] e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power,

[0082] f) electronic regulating unit,

[0083] g) a display device,

[0084] h) interfaces to remote computers,

[0085] Therein, a software runs in the electronic regulating unit, which simulates the treatment of the patient based on the current settings of the medical fluid pump and displays the operating values ​​obtained according to the simulation on the display unit of the medical fluid pump and on the remote computer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] The present invention is basically as follows Figure 1 shown.

[0087] exist Figure 1 The reference numerals used in the text have the following meanings:

[0088] (1) Gas connector

[0089] (2) Proportional valve

[0090] (3) Gas feed pipeline

[0091] (4) Volume flow regulator

[0092] (5) Pressure sensor

[0093] (6) Volume flow sensor

[0094] (7) First trocar

[0095] (8) Cavity

[0096] (9) Suction hose

[0097] (10) Second trocar

[0098] (11) Suction device with adjustable suction power (optional)

[0099] (12) Electronic adjustment unit

[0100] (13) Display device

[0101] (14) Interface

[0102] (15) Remote Computer

[0103] (16) Display device of remote computer

[0104] Figure 2 An embodiment is shown in which the gas injector of the present invention is connected to a second gas injector of identical structure. Figure 2 The reference numerals used in the text have the following meanings:

[0105] (1) / (1') Gas connector

[0106] (2) / (2') Proportional valve

[0107] (3) / (3') Gas feed line

[0108] (4) / (4') Volume flow regulator

[0109] (5) / (5')Pressure sensor

[0110] (6) / (6') Volume flow sensor

[0111] (7) / (7') First trocar

[0112] (8) / (8') cavity

[0113] (9) / (9') Suction Hose

[0114] (10) / (10') Second trocar

[0115] (11) / (11') Suction device with adjustable suction power (optional)

[0116] (12) / (12') Electronic adjustment unit

[0117] (13) / (13') Display device

[0118] (14) Interface

[0119] (15) Remote Computer

[0120] (16) Display device of remote computer

Claims

1. A gas insufflation machine for minimally invasive surgery, comprising a) Gas connection with proportional valve b) First trocar c) a gas feed line for gas from a gas connection, with a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar, d) a suction device with adjustable suction power, e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power, f) electronic regulating unit, g) a display device, h) interfaces to remote computers, in, The electronic adjustment unit transmits the current settings of the gas insufflation machine to the remote computer via the interface, The remote computer simulates the treatment of the patient and transmits the operating values ​​obtained from the simulation back to the gas injection machine through the interface. The display unit of the gas injection machine displays the simulated operating values.

2. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: The insufflator displays visually and / or audibly the situation being simulated.

3. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: The gas insulator completely blocked the gas flow during the simulation.

4. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: The insufflator is connected to the prosthesis during the simulation.

5. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: The remote computer simulates the treatment by connecting to a second insufflation machine of identical structure, wherein the insufflation machine of identical structure is connected to the prosthesis.

6. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: The remote computer simulates the treatment with the aid of software.

7. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: The insufflator also has a voice connection or a video connection with the remote computer.

8. The gas injection machine according to claim 1, wherein: Within the scope of the simulation, the remote computer also simulates device faults, component faults and / or process errors.

9. A gas insufflation machine for minimally invasive surgery, comprising a) Gas connection with proportional valve b) First trocar c) a gas feed line for gas from a gas connection, with a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar, d) a suction device with adjustable suction power, e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power, f) electronic regulating unit, g) a display device, h) interfaces to remote computers, in, A software runs in the electronic regulating unit, which simulates the treatment of the patient based on the current settings of the insufflator and displays the operating values ​​obtained according to the simulation on the display unit of the insufflator and on the remote computer.

10. The gas injection machine according to claim 9, wherein: The insufflator displays visually and / or audibly the situation being simulated.

11. The gas injection machine according to claim 9, wherein: The gas insulator completely blocked the gas flow during the simulation.

12. The gas injection machine according to claim 9, wherein: The insufflator is connected to the prosthesis during the simulation.

13. The gas injection machine according to claim 9, wherein: Within the scope of the simulation, the remote computer also simulates device faults, component faults and / or process errors.

14. A medical liquid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising a) liquid reservoir, b) First trocar c) a liquid feed line for liquid from the reservoir, with a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and a connector to the first trocar, d) Liquid suction device with adjustable suction power, e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power, f) electronic regulating unit, g) a display device, h) interfaces to remote computers, in, The electronic regulating unit transmits the current settings of the medical fluid pump to the remote computer via the interface, The remote computer simulates the treatment of the patient and transmits the operating values ​​obtained from the simulation back to the medical fluid pump through the interface. Therein, the display unit of the medical fluid pump displays simulated operating values.

15. A medical liquid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising a) liquid reservoir, b) First trocar c) a liquid feed line for liquid from the reservoir, with a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and a connector to the first trocar, d) Liquid suction device with adjustable suction power, e) a second trocar with a suction hose connected to the suction device with adjustable suction power, f) electronic regulating unit, g) a display device, h) interfaces to remote computers, in, A software runs in the electronic regulating unit which simulates the treatment of the patient based on the current settings of the medical fluid pump and displays the operating values ​​obtained according to the simulation on the display unit of the medical fluid pump and on a remote computer.

16. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The medical fluid pump visually and / or audibly displays the situation being simulated.

17. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The medical fluid pump completely blocked the gas flow during the simulation.

18. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The medical fluid pump is connected to the prosthesis during the simulation.

19. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The remote computer simulates the treatment by connecting to a second structurally identical medical fluid pump that is connected to the prosthesis.

20. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The remote computer simulates the treatment with the aid of software.

21. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The medical fluid pump also has a voice connection or a video connection with the remote computer.

22. The medical fluid pump according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: Within the scope of the simulation, the remote computer also simulates device faults, component faults and / or process errors.

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