Controllable thoracoscope memory alloy internal fixture activator and use method

Abstract

The invention discloses a controllable thoracoscope memory alloy internal fixture activator and a use method. The system comprises a handheld operation part, a slender rod part, an end effector and an external host unit, the end effector is provided with a temperature control groove for fixing an object, a bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module embedded in the groove, a temperature sensor and a composite heat insulation structure comprising a heat insulation cavity and a flexible heat insulation skirt edge; the handheld operation part is integrated with a display and setting unit, and the host unit realizes closed-loop temperature control; by means of the design of the temperature control groove capable of actively clamping and wrapping the fixture, it is ensured that the position of the fixture is stable during heating, rapid and constant control over the heating temperature is achieved through the integrated temperature sensor and feedback control system, a heat source is effectively isolated through a composite heat insulation structure, and surrounding important tissue is protected in a narrow thoracic cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of thoracic surgery technology, and in particular to a controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] For rib fractures caused by chest trauma / war injuries, the conventional surgical method involves directly exposing the fracture ends through a chest incision and fixing the fracture ends with a plate or shape memory alloy retainer. The shape memory alloy retainer is usually shaped by cooling with cold water, placed at the fracture ends, and then heated with hot water to cause the claws on both sides to close and fix the rib. A more minimally invasive procedure is thoracoscopic internal fixation of rib fractures. In this method, the shape memory alloy fixator is shaped by cooling with cold water, entered into the pleural cavity through a small incision in the chest wall, and fixed inside the pleural cavity to the inner side of the rib fracture ends. It is then heated to cause the claws to close and fix the rib.

[0003] Unlike open surgery, where hot water can be directly poured into the fixed shape memory alloy fixation device, fixation devices within the body cavity are not easily activated by heat. Current common practices include: warm saline / hot water irrigation, which attempts to infuse hot water into the pleural cavity. This method has low heat conduction efficiency, the temperature cannot be maintained, and the distribution is extremely uneven, easily leading to incomplete activation or weak fixation. More seriously, the introduction of a large amount of foreign fluid or foreign body into the sterile surgical cavity not only increases the risk of infection but may also interfere with the thoracoscopy view; and heated gauze contact, which uses gauze soaked in hot saline for intracavitary warming. However, the temperature of the gauze cannot be maintained for long, the heat conduction efficiency is low, and it needs to be repeatedly heated and covered, making the operation extremely inconvenient. Some doctors will make a slightly larger incision for both observation and operation, using ordinary warm saline for irrigation, but this deviates from the "purely minimally invasive" principle of total thoracoscopy.

[0004] Therefore, in response to the problems mentioned above, this invention proposes a controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator and its usage method. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies in thoracoscopic memory alloy internal fixation device activation, such as the lack of effective means to stably hold the fixation device during heating and the inability to effectively isolate the heat source to protect surrounding vital organs under minimally invasive conditions, this invention proposes a controllable thoracoscopic memory alloy internal fixation device activator and its usage method. This device is specifically designed for thoracoscopic surgery using standard trocars, enabling precise clamping of the fixation device to be activated, rapid and uniform heating with controllable temperature and time, and integrating an effective active heat insulation protection mechanism. This overcomes the deficiencies of existing technologies and improves the overall safety, reliability, and efficiency of the surgery.

[0006] The technical solution of this invention is: a controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator, comprising a handheld operating part, a slender rod part, an end effector, and an external main unit: The slender rod is a long tubular structure, with one end fixedly connected to the end effector and the other end connected to the handheld operating part. The diameter of the slender rod is no more than 12mm and the length is between 25cm and 35cm, which is compatible with standard diameter thoracoscopic surgical trocars. The slender rod integrates a control mechanism for controlling the angle and a transmission component for transmission between the end effector. The end effector includes: A temperature control groove, the concave shape of which is adapted to the outer contour of the shape memory alloy internal fixation device to be activated, so that it can wrap around and clamp the shape memory alloy internal fixation device arm. A bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module is installed on the inner wall of the temperature control tank for cooling or heating. A temperature sensor, which is installed on or near the inner wall of the temperature control tank, is used to detect the real-time temperature of the area in contact between the temperature control tank and the shape memory alloy internal fixation material. A heat insulation structure, located on the outer periphery of the temperature control tank, is used to isolate the heat generated by the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module from being transferred to surrounding tissues during heating operation. The heat insulation structure includes a heat insulation cavity located on the outer wall of the temperature control tank and a flexible heat insulation skirt surrounding the edge of the opening of the temperature control tank. The flexible heat insulation skirt is made of a biocompatible, high-temperature resistant elastic material and is designed to deform when the temperature control tank holds a shape memory alloy internal fixation device and abuts against the surface of the rib, so as to conform to the surface of the rib and form a local isolation space around the opening of the temperature control tank. The handheld operating unit includes: The control mechanism is connected to the first movable end via a transmission component that passes through the slender rod, and is used to remotely control the swing angle of the first movable end; A rotating mechanism controls the rotation of a slender rod, thereby controlling the angle of the end effector. An integrated control unit is mounted on the grip housing. It includes a display screen for displaying information, control buttons for inputting control parameters, and a main control chip for processing signals. The display screen shows at least a preset target temperature value and a real-time temperature value detected by a temperature sensor. The integrated control unit also integrates a bidirectional reversible current output module and mode switching logic, allowing users to select "heating / cooling" mode on the handheld operation unit display screen. The external host unit is electrically connected to the handheld operating unit via a cable. It contains a temperature control circuit and a power module. The temperature control circuit receives real-time temperature signals from the temperature sensor and control commands from the integrated control unit, and outputs controlled current to the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module to achieve closed-loop control of the heating temperature.

[0007] Preferably, the slender rod also integrates a heating conductive wire for connecting the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module and the external host unit, and a sensor signal wire for connecting the temperature sensor and the integrated control unit or the external host unit. The end of the slender rod is rotatably connected to a first movable end, which integrates a micro motor. The output shaft of the micro motor is fixedly connected to a second movable end. The end of the second movable end is movably connected to a third movable end with a universal joint structure. The end of the third movable end is fixedly connected to a fixed end, and the end of the fixed end is fixedly connected to an end effector.

[0008] Preferably, the shape of the temperature control groove is a long U-shaped groove that fits perfectly with the shape memory alloy circumference holder. Its opening width and depth are designed to accommodate and fit a standard-sized shape memory alloy rib circumference holder, for example, 20mm to 60mm. The groove width is slightly larger than the diameter of the arm, for example, 4mm to 8mm, to ensure complete wrapping and achieve maximum area of ​​thermal conductivity contact.

[0009] Preferably, the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module heats the inner wall of the temperature control tank under forward current and actively cools the same contact surface under reverse current.

[0010] Preferably, the heat insulation cavity is filled with air or heat insulation material (preferably a vacuum heat insulation cavity or a cavity filled with nanoporous aerogel), and the flexible heat insulation skirt is made of medical silicone or an elastomer material with similar properties.

[0011] Preferably, the integrated control unit also includes a start / stop switch, which is located on the grip housing in a position that is easy for fingers to operate, or is connected to a foot switch that can be placed on the ground via a cable. Operating the start / stop switch can trigger or stop the heating process of the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module.

[0012] Preferably, the control button is used to set the target heating temperature value, which is adjustable between 45°C and 80°C. The control button is also used to set the heating duration, or the heating process is controlled to stop by the main control chip or external host unit based on the maintenance time or temperature change rate after the target temperature is reached.

[0013] This invention proposes a method for using a controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator, comprising the following steps: S1, the slender rod of the activator and the end effector are inserted into the thoracic cavity through the established thoracoscopic surgery trocar, the handheld operating unit is connected to the external host unit and powered on, and the target temperature value and / or heating time parameter for heating activation are preset through the control buttons on the handheld operating unit; S2. Under the visual guidance of the thoracoscope, the operator manipulates the control mechanism of the handheld operating unit to move and adjust the end of the activator so that the temperature control groove is aligned with and covers the shape memory alloy internal fixation device. At this time, the flexible heat insulation skirt contacts the rib surface under the action of clamping force and undergoes adaptive deformation, conforming to the rib surface to form a local heat insulation space. Then, the end of the activator is adjusted to place the shape memory alloy internal fixation device at the fracture end of the rib. S3, operate the control mechanism to align the angle of the first movable end with the rib, then adjust the rotation mechanism to control the rotation of the slender rod, thereby controlling the angle of the end effector, and then control the micro motor through the display screen to adjust the bone plate on the end effector to be parallel to the rib, and attach the bone plate to the rib. S4, the operator triggers the start / stop switch, the temperature control circuit of the external host unit starts to work, and outputs control current to the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module according to the real-time temperature feedback from the temperature sensor, so that the temperature of the inner wall of the temperature control tank rises rapidly to the preset target temperature and is maintained. The bone plate undergoes phase change and contraction under thermal stimulation, thereby holding the rib tightly. S5, observe the contraction and clamping of the memory alloy arm through thoracoscopy, and after confirming that it is clamped tightly, trigger the start / stop switch again to stop heating; S6. Use a probe to check the overall stability of the internal fixation device. After confirming that it is securely fixed, remove the end effector and slender rod of the activator from the trocar. If the fixation is not good, control the control unit to output a reverse current through the display screen, thereby activating the cooling mode of the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module to loosen the bone plate again, and then repeat the above fixation operation.

[0014] The beneficial effects of this invention are: 1. This invention achieves temperature control of the heating activation process of shape memory alloy internal fixation materials by integrating a temperature sensor with a closed-loop feedback control system based on a PID algorithm. It can rapidly raise the temperature of the heating area to the preset phase transformation temperature and maintain it stably. Its control accuracy can reach within ±1℃, thereby effectively avoiding the problems of incomplete phase transformation and weak fixation of shape memory alloys caused by excessively low temperature, as well as the problems of performance degradation of shape memory alloys, thermal damage or necrosis of surrounding tissues caused by excessively high temperature or excessive heat exposure time.

[0015] 2. The present invention provides a control unit that controls a bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module, which allows for retrograde fixation without removing the bone setter from the thoracic cavity when the placement of the bone setter is unsatisfactory during surgery, and allows for re-fixation within the thoracic cavity.

[0016] 3. This invention designs an end effector with active clamping function. Its U-shaped or spoon-shaped temperature control groove can accurately grasp and completely wrap the shape memory alloy retainer during surgery, just like surgical forceps. It achieves a firm lock through a transmission mechanism. This design ensures that the internal fixation device remains stable relative to the rib fracture end throughout the entire heating and activation process, with no risk of displacement. This ensures that heat is efficiently transferred to the target arm, making the shape restoration and clamping process controllable and reliable. It overcomes the defects of existing technologies that use electrocoagulation hooks for radiation heating or hot compresses, such as easy displacement of the fixation device, poor thermal contact leading to activation failure, or the need for repeated operations.

[0017] 4. The end effector of the present invention adopts a composite heat insulation structure including a heat insulation cavity and a flexible heat insulation skirt. This design can achieve physical isolation of heat sources in the narrow space of the minimally invasive endoscope. In particular, the flexible heat insulation skirt can adaptively conform to the rib bone surface when the instrument is clamped and fixed, forming a local sealed space. This strictly limits the high temperature area to the contact range between the shape memory alloy arm and the temperature control groove, significantly blocking the diffusion and radiation of heat to the adjacent lung tissue, pericardium, major blood vessels and intercostal nerves, greatly reducing the risk of accidental thermal injury during the operation, and achieving the goal of safe operation under completely thoracoscopic minimally invasive conditions. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the overall three-dimensional structure of the present invention; Figure 2 The diagram shown is a top view of the structure of the present invention; Figure 3 The diagram shown illustrates the workflow of this invention.

[0019] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Handheld operating part; 101. Start / stop switch; 102. OLED display screen; 103. Temperature control knob; 104. Rotation mechanism; 2. Slender rod part; 201. First movable end; 202. Second movable end; 203. Third movable end; 204. Fixed end; 3. End effector. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are some embodiments of the present invention, but not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] Please see Figures 1-2 This invention provides an embodiment of a controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator: This invention is a system comprising a handheld operating unit, a slender rod, an end effector, an external host unit, and connecting cables. Its design goal is to achieve stable clamping, precise heating, real-time monitoring, and effective isolation of intracavitary shape memory alloy fixation devices under video monitoring through a standard thoracoscope trocar channel.

[0022] In this embodiment, the end effector will be described in detail: The temperature-controlled bath is made of high-strength, high-thermal-conductivity medical-grade titanium alloy (such as TC4). Its inner surface is polished to reduce thermal resistance. The shape of the bath strictly mimics the arc-shaped outer surface of several commonly used clinical shape memory alloy arm sizes (such as 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm in width). During implementation, a clamp design is used, with a bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module tightly embedded in the groove on the inner wall of each temperature-controlled bath. This bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module heats the inner wall of the temperature-controlled bath under forward current and actively cools the same contact surface under reverse current.

[0023] At the center of each temperature-controlled arm, only 0.5 mm from the inner surface, a miniature T-type thermocouple is embedded as a temperature sensor. This thermocouple has a fast response time (<100ms), and its measurement point is aligned with the expected contact center of the shape memory alloy arm, thus ensuring that the measured temperature is the actual operating temperature. The signal line uses shielded twisted pair cable, which runs through the slender rod.

[0024] The insulation cavity, located between the titanium alloy substrate of the temperature control tank and the outer stainless steel shell, is a ring-shaped, sealed cavity approximately 1.5 mm wide. After being evacuated to a vacuum level below 0.1 Pa, it is sealed to form a highly efficient vacuum insulation layer, with insulation performance more than 10 times that of still air. The flexible insulation skirt is integrally molded from medical-grade high-temperature resistant silicone (capable of withstanding 150°C for extended periods) and securely installed on the opening edge of the temperature control tank's inner wall using slots and biocompatible adhesive. The skirt is flared, with a thickness that gradually decreases from 1.2 mm at the base to 0.6 mm at the tip, exhibiting excellent elastic deformation capabilities. When the temperature control tank is clamped against the ribs, the skirt is compressed, and its 5 mm wide contact surface at the tip conforms to the irregular shape of the rib surface, forming a mechanical seal that physically isolates the high-temperature temperature control tank from the underlying pleura and lung tissue.

[0025] In this embodiment, the slender rod portion will be described in detail: The slender rod section is made of thin-walled stainless steel tubing with a diameter of 10mm and a length of 320mm, and integrates two functional channels internally, specifically a transmission channel and an electrical channel: The transmission channel houses a 0.8mm diameter push-pull stainless steel cable, which is connected to the linkage mechanism of the end temperature control arm to precisely transmit the handle's movement to the end, thereby controlling the angle of the end actuator with a transmission error of less than 0.5mm.

[0026] The electrical channel accommodates two pairs of high-temperature resistant silicone-insulated wires, which connect two heating elements and a pair of shielded thermocouple wires, respectively. All wires are encased in flame-retardant PTFE tubing to ensure insulation and heat resistance. A first movable end is rotatably connected to the end of the slender rod. A micro-motor is integrated inside the first movable end, and the output shaft of the micro-motor is fixedly connected to a second movable end. The end of the second movable end is movably connected to a third movable end with a universal joint structure. The end of the third movable end is fixedly connected to a fixed end, which is then fixedly connected to an end effector.

[0027] In this embodiment, the handheld operating unit will be described in detail: The handheld control unit is designed with a pistol grip, which is suitable for right-handed operation.

[0028] The handheld control unit adopts a double-ring push-pull design. The index finger and thumb are respectively inserted into the front and rear rings. The relative movement pulls the internal slider, which in turn drives the push-pull stainless steel cable to achieve the angle control of the end temperature control tank.

[0029] The upper part of the grip integrates a small color OLED display screen, which displays three parameters in real time: preset temperature, real-time temperature, and heating timer. It also displays the real-time temperature change process in the form of a dynamic curve. Three waterproof membrane buttons are used to set the temperature (cycled between 45-80℃ in 5℃ increments) and the timer. The microprocessor is responsible for data acquisition, display, and communication with the host.

[0030] The start / stop switch on the handheld control unit is a double-action button located at the front of the grip where the thumb naturally rests. A light press starts the heating, and releasing or pressing it again stops it. The system also includes a foot switch interface for the operator to choose from.

[0031] In this embodiment, the external host unit will be described in detail: The main unit is an independent desktop device with a built-in high-performance PID temperature controller (temperature control circuit) and switching power supply. The PID controller dynamically calculates and outputs a PWM (pulse width modulation) signal based on the difference between the set temperature and the actual temperature feedback from the thermocouple, controlling the power supplied to the heating element. The algorithm is optimized, featuring anti-integral saturation and derivative-first functions to ensure no overshoot during rapid heating and minimal fluctuations during constant temperature operation. The main unit also features multiple protections, including an independent hardware overheat protection circuit (threshold set at 85℃); real-time current monitoring that directly cuts off the output when current is abnormal; and automatic protection in case of communication interruption with the handheld unit.

[0032] Please see Figure 3 The present invention provides an embodiment: This procedure involved a male patient who suffered fractures of the 4th, 5th, and 6th ribs on the right side due to a car accident. The procedure was performed using a fully thoracoscopic shape memory alloy circumferential fixation device.

[0033] (1) After establishing a standard three-port thoracoscopic operating channel (one observation port and two operating ports), insert the sterilized slender rod of the activator into the thoracic cavity through a 10mm operating trocar, connect the handle cable to the main unit, power on the machine for self-test, and the main unit screen displays the system status as "ready". The surgeon sets the temperature to 60℃ using the temperature adjustment knob, which is the phase change activation temperature of commonly used nickel-titanium alloy encircling devices.

[0034] (2) Under thoracoscopic monitoring, the surgeon places the first encircling device (pre-shaped by ice) inside the fracture end of the 5th rib, holds the activator in the right hand and the grasping forceps in the left hand to assist, and carefully puts the temperature control groove into the front of the encircling device so that the temperature control groove completely wraps the encircling device. Through the thoracoscopic view, the silicone heat insulation skirt can be seen to be deformed by pressure, closely adhering to the rib, and the isolation area is formed.

[0035] (3) The operator presses the start button with his thumb. On the main unit display screen, the real-time temperature curve starts to rise from 37℃ (body temperature). After about 3.2 seconds, the temperature reaches 60℃. The system automatically switches to constant temperature mode. The PID controller finely adjusts the power to stabilize the temperature at 60±0.5℃. After waiting for about 10 seconds until the bone surface is completely covered, the operator releases the button, the heating stops, and the probe is used to gently push and check to ensure that it is firmly fixed.

[0036] (4) Repeat steps 2-4 for fixing the 4th and 6th ribs. When fixing the 6th rib, due to an operational error, it was not completely fixed. At this time, the control unit outputs a reverse current to start the cooling mode of the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module, thereby loosening the bone plate. Then fix it again. After completion, use a probe to gently push and check that it is firmly fixed.

[0037] (5) After all the circumferential devices are activated, use a probe to check the overall stability of the internal fixation device. After confirming that the fixation is secure, remove the end actuator and the slender rod of the activator from the trocar. After the operation, irrigate the pleural cavity. No traces of thermal damage to the surrounding lung tissue were found.

[0038] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention in any other way. Any person skilled in the art may make changes or modifications to the above-disclosed technical content to create equivalent embodiments that can be applied to other fields. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator, characterized in that, It includes a handheld operating unit, a slender lever, an end effector, and an external main unit: The slender rod is a long tubular structure, with one end fixedly connected to the end effector and the other end connected to the handheld operating part. The diameter of the slender rod is no more than 12mm and the length is between 25cm and 35cm, which is compatible with standard diameter thoracoscopic surgical trocars. The slender rod integrates a control mechanism for controlling the angle and a transmission component for transmission between the end effector. The end effector includes: A temperature control groove, the concave shape of which is adapted to the outer contour of the shape memory alloy internal fixation object to be activated, so that it can wrap around and hold the shape memory alloy internal fixation object. A bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module is installed on the inner wall of the temperature control tank for cooling or heating. A temperature sensor, which is installed on or near the inner wall of the temperature control tank, is used to detect the real-time temperature of the area in contact between the temperature control tank and the shape memory alloy internal fixation material. A heat insulation structure, located on the outer periphery of the temperature control tank, is used to isolate the heat generated by the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module from being transferred to surrounding tissues during heating operation. The heat insulation structure includes a heat insulation cavity located on the outer wall of the temperature control tank and a flexible heat insulation skirt surrounding the edge of the opening of the temperature control tank. The flexible heat insulation skirt is made of a biocompatible, high-temperature resistant elastic material and is designed to deform when the temperature control tank holds a shape memory alloy internal fixation device and abuts against the surface of the rib, so as to conform to the surface of the rib and form a local isolation space around the opening of the temperature control tank. The handheld operating unit includes: The control mechanism is connected to the first movable end via a transmission component that passes through the slender rod, and is used to remotely control the swing angle of the first movable end; A rotating mechanism controls the rotation of a slender rod, thereby controlling the angle of the end effector. An integrated control unit is mounted on the grip housing. It includes a display screen for displaying information, control buttons for inputting control parameters, and a main control chip for processing signals. The display screen shows at least a preset target temperature value and a real-time temperature value detected by a temperature sensor. The integrated control unit also integrates a bidirectional reversible current output module and mode switching logic, allowing users to select "heating / cooling" mode on the handheld operation unit display screen. The external host unit is electrically connected to the handheld operating unit via a cable. It contains a temperature control circuit and a power module. The temperature control circuit receives real-time temperature signals from the temperature sensor and control commands from the integrated control unit, and outputs controlled current to the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module to achieve closed-loop control of the heating temperature.

2. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slender rod also integrates a heating conductive wire for connecting the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module and the external host unit, and a sensor signal wire for connecting the temperature sensor and the integrated control unit or the external host unit.

3. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The temperature control groove is U-shaped or spoon-shaped, and its opening width and depth are designed to accommodate and fit a standard-sized shape memory alloy rib cage.

4. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module heats the inner wall of the temperature control tank under forward current and actively cools the same contact surface under reverse current.

5. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slender rod is rotatably connected to a first movable end, which integrates a micro motor. The output shaft of the micro motor is fixedly connected to a second movable end. The end of the second movable end is movably connected to a third movable end with a universal joint structure. The end of the third movable end is fixedly connected to a fixed end, which is fixedly connected to an end effector.

6. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat insulation cavity is filled with air or heat insulation material, and the flexible heat insulation skirt is made of medical-grade silicone or an elastomer material with similar properties.

7. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The integrated control unit also includes a start / stop switch, which is located on the grip housing in a position that is easy for fingers to operate, or is connected to a foot switch that can be placed on the ground via a cable. Operating the start / stop switch can trigger or stop the heating process of the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module.

8. The controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control buttons are used to set the target heating temperature value, which is adjustable between 45°C and 80°C. The control buttons are also used to set the heating duration, or the heating process can be stopped by the main control chip or external host unit based on the maintenance time or temperature change rate after the target temperature is reached.

9. A method for using a controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator, employing any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that... Includes the following steps: S1, the slender rod of the activator and the end effector are inserted into the thoracic cavity through the established thoracoscopic surgery trocar, the handheld operating unit is connected to the external host unit and powered on, and the target temperature value and / or heating time parameter for heating activation are preset through the control buttons on the handheld operating unit; S2. Under the visual guidance of the thoracoscope, the operator manipulates the control mechanism of the handheld operating unit to move and adjust the end of the activator so that the temperature control groove is aligned with and covers the shape memory alloy internal fixation device. At this time, the flexible heat insulation skirt contacts the rib surface under the action of clamping force and undergoes adaptive deformation, conforming to the rib surface to form a local heat insulation space. Then, the end of the activator is adjusted to place the shape memory alloy internal fixation device at the fracture end of the rib. S3, operate the control mechanism to align the angle of the first movable end with the rib, then adjust the rotation mechanism to control the rotation of the slender rod, thereby controlling the angle of the end effector, and then control the micro motor through the display screen to adjust the bone plate on the end effector to be parallel to the rib, and attach the bone plate to the rib. S4, the operator triggers the start / stop switch, the temperature control circuit of the external host unit starts to work, and outputs control current to the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module according to the real-time temperature feedback from the temperature sensor, so that the temperature of the inner wall of the temperature control tank rises rapidly to the preset target temperature and is maintained. The bone plate undergoes phase change and contraction under thermal stimulation, thereby holding the rib tightly. S5, observe the contraction and clamping of the memory alloy arm through thoracoscopy, and after confirming that it is clamped tightly, trigger the start / stop switch again to stop heating; S6. Use a probe to check the overall stability of the internal fixation device. After confirming that it is securely fixed, remove the end effector and slender rod of the activator from the trocar. If the fixation is not good, control the control unit to output a reverse current through the display screen, thereby activating the cooling mode of the bidirectional thermoelectric semiconductor module to loosen the bone plate again, and then repeat the above fixation operation.

10. The method of using the controllable thoracoscopic shape memory alloy internal fixation device activator according to claim 9, characterized in that: In step S4, the heating activation process brings the temperature of the contact surface between the temperature control tank and the memory alloy inner fixed object to a preset target temperature within 3 to 5 seconds. The target temperature is set according to the phase transition temperature of the memory alloy material, and is usually set between 50°C and 70°C.

Images