Cover for a surgical training device and corresponding system

Abstract

A cover (20, 20a, 30b) for a surgical training device (10) that can be fitted with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ (17), wherein the covering (20, 20a, 30b) is designed to replicate at least part of a human and / or animal abdominal wall, wherein the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has at least a partially convex shape (21) with respect to the surgical training device (10), and wherein the convex shape (21) and / or the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has several recesses (22), wherein some recesses (22), in particular in the apex region of the convex shape (21), are arranged in the sense of the five eyes of a dice and / or some recesses (22), in particular between the apex region of the convex shape (21) and an edge region of the cover (20, 20a, 30b), are arranged in the sense of a rectangle or square.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a cover for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ, and to a surgical training system comprising such a cover. BACKGROUND

[0002] Surgical training devices and systems are becoming increasingly important, especially in the context of minimally invasive and robot-assisted surgery. In practice, a significant proportion of surgical errors are due to the surgeon's inexperience. This lack of experience is typically even more significant as a source of error than, for example, fatigue, poor communication, or excessive workload. Such surgical training devices and systems play a significant role in preventing a lack of experience without compromising patient safety.

[0003] Document EP 0 624 861 A2 relates to a device adapted for use in training surgeons and surgical personnel in surgical techniques and procedures, and more particularly to a device and method for training surgeons and surgical personnel in minimally invasive surgical techniques and procedures in a manner intended to appropriately simulate clinical phenomena. Furthermore, an elastic medium intended to simulate the patient's body wall for training purposes is to be fixed to the aforementioned device.

[0004] Unfortunately, this elastic medium is not only complex to handle, particularly in terms of the aforementioned fixation, but also leads to increased material expenditure, since the elastic medium has to be replaced as a whole after each surgical training session due to corresponding penetrations caused by corresponding medical instruments. TASK AND SOLUTION

[0005] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a cover for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ, a surgical training system comprising such a cover and a method for using such a cover, wherein not only particularly efficient handling is ensured, but also the correspondingly required use of resources is significantly reduced.

[0006] The object is achieved with respect to the cover for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ by the features of patent claim 1. The object is achieved with respect to the surgical training system comprising such a cover by the features of patent claim 14. The object is achieved with respect to the method for using such a cover by the features of patent claim 15. The subclaims contain advantageous developments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a cover is provided for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ. The cover is designed to simulate at least part of a human and / or animal abdominal wall. Furthermore, the cover has at least a partially convex shape with respect to the surgical training device.

[0008] This not only ensures particularly efficient handling, but also significantly reduces the required resource consumption. Another advantage, for example, is that gas insufflation can be dispensed with during surgical training.

[0009] Preferably, the convex shape is arranged in a central region of the cover. In other words, the convex shape is preferably not arranged in an edge region of the cover.

[0010] Further preferably, the cover is used in the context of minimally invasive and / or robot-assisted surgery. In other words, the cover for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ can be a cover for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ for training minimally invasive and / or robot-assisted surgery.

[0011] Furthermore, the synthetic organ can preferably be produced by 3D printing.

[0012] According to a first preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the convex shape and / or the cover has a rigid, particularly rigid, structure, e.g., in the form of a dome or a vault. Advantageously, this allows, for example, an abdominal wall exposed to an insufflation gas to be simulated in a particularly realistic manner.

[0013] According to a second preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, at least the convex shape is designed to replicate at least a portion of the human and / or animal abdominal wall that covers an area insufflated during surgery. This advantageously allows, for example, material savings.

[0014] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the convex shape is designed as a dome-like or arch-like elevation with respect to the surgical training device.

[0015] Advantageously, this can enable simple and efficient production, for example.

[0016] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the convex shape and / or the cover has a round or oval basic shape. This advantageously allows, for example, the complexity of the corresponding manufacturing to be further reduced.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the convex shape and / or the cover has at least one recess. Advantageously, for example, the cover itself can remain undamaged even if medical instruments penetrate it during surgical training. If multiple recesses are present, which is preferred, a trocar can be inserted into each recess, and the insertion of the trocars can be practiced independently of one another.

[0018] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one recess has a round or oval basic shape. Advantageously, the at least one recess can be created in a simple and cost-effective manner, for example, by drilling or milling, or can be easily recessed using an additive manufacturing process.

[0019] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one recess has at least one detachable element. Advantageously, each of the preferably multiple recesses can thus be flexibly adapted, for example, in its size and / or shape.

[0020] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the at least one detachable element covers and / or closes the respective corresponding recess. Advantageously, the typically closed abdominal wall can thus be realistically simulated, for example.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element is designed to simulate the human and / or animal abdominal wall. Additionally or alternatively, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element comprises an elastic base material. Further additionally or further alternatively, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element consists of rubber and / or an elastomer and / or polyethylene and / or silicone. This advantageously ensures, for example, cost-efficient production.

[0022] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element comprises at least two layers. Additionally or alternatively, at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element comprises fiber reinforcement, preferably glass fiber reinforcement. Advantageously, this allows, for example, a particularly realistic reproduction of the abdominal wall to be achieved, especially if the crossed structure of the fibers corresponds to the structure of the muscle fibers in a natural abdominal wall.

[0023] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the fiber reinforcement, preferably the glass fiber reinforcement, has a crossed structure. This advantageously allows, for example, the realism of the abdominal wall replica to be further improved, particularly if the fiber pattern corresponds to the pattern of the muscle fibers in a natural abdominal wall.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, a base material of the cover comprises polyethylene and / or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polycarbonate. Advantageously, the cover can thus be efficiently manufactured, for example, using a 3D printing process, in particular using an additive 3D printing process.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the cover has at least one locking element for locking the cover to the surgical training device. In this context, at least one of the at least one locking element is designed as a region arranged in the edge region of the cover, in which the basic shape of the edge region of the cover is deviated from.

[0026] Advantageously, appropriate surgical training can be carried out in a particularly safe manner, as slipping of the cover is reliably prevented.

[0027] According to a further preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the cover has a release mechanism for releasing the cover from the surgical training device, particularly when the cover is locked to the surgical training device. In this context, the release mechanism, in particular, has a lever-like element that is designed to release the corresponding locking of the cover on the surgical training device when pulled.

[0028] Advantageously, particularly efficient handling can be ensured in this way, in particular since the at least one locking element can be released quickly and easily.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the invention, a surgical training system is provided. This surgical training system comprises a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ, as well as a cover according to the first aspect of the invention or one of its preferred embodiments.

[0030] This not only ensures particularly efficient handling, but also significantly reduces the required resource consumption. Another advantage, for example, is that gas insufflation can be dispensed with during surgical training.

[0031] According to a first preferred embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, the surgical training device comprises an interchangeable adaptation element that is or can be detachably connected to the surgical training device. In this context, the interchangeable adaptation element is configured to replicate the corresponding orifice of the human or animal body, in particular depending on the type of surgery to be trained. Furthermore, the detachable connection of the interchangeable adaptation element to the surgical training device comprises, in particular, a joint, preferably a ball joint.

[0032] Advantageously, this allows for a particularly realistic form of surgical training.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for using a cover according to the first aspect of the invention or one of its preferred embodiments is provided. The method comprises the following steps: applying the cover to a surgical training device that can be equipped or is equipped with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ, and penetrating the cover, preferably the convex shape, particularly preferably at least one of the at least one recess, very particularly preferably at least one of the at least one detachable element of the respective corresponding recess, with the aid of at least one surgical instrument, in particular at least one trocar.

[0034] This not only ensures particularly efficient handling, but also significantly reduces the required resource consumption. Another advantage, for example, is that gas insufflation can be dispensed with during surgical training. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035] A detailed exemplary description of some embodiments of the invention is given below with reference to the figures of the drawing. Fig. 1 shows an exemplary surgical training device according to the invention; Fig. 2A shows an exemplary embodiment of a cover according to the invention in a three-dimensional view; Fig. 2B the embodiment according to Fig. 2A in a plan view; Fig. 2C the embodiment according to Fig. 2A in a side view; Fig. 3A shows a first part of a two-part embodiment of the cover according to the invention; Fig. 3B shows a second part of the two-part embodiment of the cover according to the invention; Fig. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment, in particular a first part of an exemplary embodiment, of the detachable element according to the invention; Fig. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment, in particular a second part of the exemplary embodiment, of the detachable element according to the invention; Fig. 6 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the detachable element according to the invention; Fig. 7A the embodiment according to Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B with exemplary introduced manipulators or instruments in three-dimensional view; Fig. 7B the embodiment according to Fig. 7A in a side view; Fig. 8 an example of robot-assisted surgery according to the invention; Fig. 9 shows an exemplary embodiment of an adaptation element according to the invention within the framework of an exemplary embodiment of a surgical training system according to the invention; Fig. 10A shows an exemplary embodiment of a release mechanism according to the invention within the framework of an exemplary embodiment of a surgical training system according to the invention; Fig. 10B is a sectional view of the release mechanism according to the invention according to Fig. 10A; and Fig. 11 an exemplary flowchart of an embodiment of the method according to the invention for using the cover according to the invention.

[0036] First, Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a surgical training device 10 according to the invention. The surgical training device 10 has a housing 15 which preferably comprises or is made of plastic, particularly preferably polyethylene and / or polycarbonate.

[0037] In the exemplary representation according to Fig. 1, the surgical training device 10 was prepared to simulate an endourological operation. Accordingly, the surgical training device 10 was equipped with an organ 17, in particular in the form of a bladder-kidney model. This bladder-kidney model preferably originates from a breeding pig that was bred specifically for the purpose of organ removal.

[0038] Furthermore, according to Fig. 1, the surgical training device 10 comprises a tube 16, in particular a perfusion tube, which at a first end is preferably connectable or connected to a pump, in particular a perfusion pump, of the surgical training device 10. Furthermore, a second end of the tube 16, in particular of the perfusion tube, is connectable or connected to the organ 17.

[0039] It can be particularly advantageous if the organ 17 has a corresponding connection, in particular in the form of a further tube, in order to be able to connect the second end of the tube 16, in particular the perfusion tube, to the further tube. For this purpose, the further tube was preferably connected to the corresponding blood vessels of the organ after the corresponding organ removal and, for example, sewn into it. It can be particularly advantageous to store organs prepared in this way in deep-frozen form for training purposes. For this purpose, the corresponding organ should first be heparinized after removal before the further tube or at least one further tube is inserted in order to subsequently freeze the organ.

[0040] It should also be noted that the surgical training device 10 is, in particular, a surgical training device with pulsatile organ perfusion. Thus, it can be particularly advantageous if the aforementioned pump, in particular a perfusion pump, is configured to supply the organ 17 or bladder-kidney model with a perfusion fluid in a pulsatile manner. The perfusion fluid can be water, colored water, in particular red-colored water, a blood-like fluid, or blood.

[0041] The perfusion fluid is located, for example, in the housing 15, in particular in the corresponding bottom region of the housing 15, and is provided with the reference numeral 14. The above-mentioned pump, in particular perfusion pump, is further configured to suck the perfusion fluid from the housing 15, in particular from the corresponding bottom region of the housing 15.

[0042] Furthermore, the housing 15, in particular the corresponding bottom region of the housing 15, has an opening, preferably an outlet, which can be closed with a closure element 18. The closure element 18 should be configured to close the opening, preferably the outlet, at least in a liquid-tight manner, in particular to prevent an unwanted escape of the perfusion fluid 14.

[0043] Basically, the opening, preferably the outlet, serves to remove the perfusion fluid 14 from the surgical training device 10 or the housing 15 after the surgical training has been completed. The bottom region of the housing 15 can preferably taper towards the opening or outlet in a funnel shape, in particular to ensure particularly efficient emptying of the surgical training device 10.

[0044] Furthermore, Fig. 1 that the surgical training device 10 has an adaptation element, in particular an exchangeable adaptation element 11. The adaptation element 11 is preferably detachably connected to the surgical training device 10 or the housing 15. This detachable connection can be achieved, in particular, by means of a joint, preferably a ball joint.

[0045] The adaptation element 11 is configured to replicate the corresponding orifice of the human or animal body, particularly according to the operation to be trained. Accordingly, it is particularly advantageous if different adaptation elements exist for the operation training device 10, which differ, in particular, in the respective diameter of their corresponding opening. In the present case, the adaptation element 11 is configured, for example, to replicate a urethra, particularly a human urethra. Fig. 1, the adaptation element 11 inside the surgical training device 10 is connected, by way of example, to the bladder of the bladder-kidney model.

[0046] With regard to the adaptation element 11, it should be noted that this or an exemplary embodiment of an adaptation element according to the invention is within the scope of Fig. 9 is shown in detail.

[0047] It should also be mentioned that the surgical training device 10 has a base plate 12 configured to support the organ 17 or the bladder-kidney model. The base plate 12 is preferably arranged substantially parallel to the base region of the housing 15. Furthermore, the base plate 12 can be configured to allow the perfusion fluid 14, particularly if it emerges from the organ 17, to reach the base region of the housing 15. Particularly in the case of an operation to be trained in the field of endourology, it can be particularly advantageous if the base plate 12 is made of plastic, in particular polyethylene.

[0048] In particular, in other cases, it may be particularly advantageous if the base plate 12 is made of metal, in particular steel. Additionally, the base plate 12 may have an electrical connection, in particular a ground connection. In this context, it may be particularly advantageous if the surgical training device 10, preferably the interior of the housing 15, has a further electrical connection, in particular a further ground connection, to which the corresponding connection of the base plate 12 is or can be connected.

[0049] Furthermore, it should be noted that it can be particularly advantageous if the base plate 12 has a grid-like structure. For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that the surgical training device 10 has a switching element 13 configured to switch the surgical training device 10, in particular its pump, preferably a perfusion pump, on or off.

[0050] It should also be noted that the Fig. 1 shown operation training device 10, for example in combination with the cover 20 according to Fig. 2A-C or with the one from the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B combined cover can be seen as corresponding embodiments of the surgical training system according to the invention.

[0051] Fig. 2A shows a three-dimensional view of an exemplary embodiment 20 of a cover according to the invention for a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ, for example for one according to Fig. 1, which is exemplified in Fig. 2A is indicated.

[0052] The cover 20 is designed to simulate at least part of a human and / or animal abdominal wall. Furthermore, the cover 20 has at least a partially convex shape 21 with respect to the surgical training device 10.

[0053] It may be particularly advantageous if the convex shape 21 and / or the cover 20 have a rigid, in particular flexurally rigid, structure. Advantageously, the cover 20 can be made at least partially of polycarbonate. Furthermore, at least the convex shape 21 can be configured to replicate at least a portion of the human and / or animal abdominal wall that covers an area insufflated during surgery.

[0054] Fig. 2A further shows that the convex shape 21 is formed as a dome-like elevation relative to the surgical training device 10. It may be particularly advantageous if the distance between a vertex or apex surface of this dome-like elevation and a corresponding lower edge of the cover 20, which is placed on the surgical training device 10, is between 9 cm and 20 cm, preferably between 11 cm and 18 cm, particularly preferably between 14 cm and 17.5 cm, and most preferably between 16 cm and 17 cm.

[0055] With regard to the convex shape 21, it should be noted that it has an oval or elliptical basic shape. It can be particularly advantageous if the major axis of the corresponding ellipse is between 5 percent and 15 percent, preferably between 7 percent and 13 percent, particularly preferably between 8 percent and 12 percent, and most preferably between 9 percent and 11 percent, larger than the corresponding minor axis.

[0056] Regarding the cover 20, it should be noted that it has an oval or elliptical basic shape. It can be particularly advantageous if the major axis of the corresponding ellipse is between 15 percent and 37 percent, preferably between 23 percent and 33 percent, particularly preferably between 24 percent and 31 percent, and most preferably between 25 percent and 30 percent, larger than the corresponding minor axis.

[0057] Additionally or alternatively, the main axis, with respect to the oval or elliptical basic shape of the cover 20, can have a length between 45 cm and 56 cm, preferably between 46 cm and 55 cm, particularly preferably between 47 cm and 54 cm, and most preferably between 49 cm and 53 cm. Furthermore, additionally or alternatively, the secondary axis, with respect to the oval or elliptical basic shape of the cover 20, can have a length between 35 cm and 44 cm, preferably between 36 cm and 43 cm, particularly preferably between 37 cm and 42 cm, and most preferably between 38 cm and 41 cm.

[0058] Furthermore, the convex shape 21 has at least one recess, for example 17 recesses, one of which is provided with the reference numeral 22. It should be noted that each of the 17 recesses preferably has a substantially round or circular basic shape.

[0059] Furthermore, the corresponding top view according to Fig. 2B that 5 of the 17 recesses are preferably arranged in the apex region of the convex shape 21 or the dome-like elevation of the cover 20, in particular in the apex region of the convex shape 21 or the dome-like elevation of the cover 20, in the sense of the five eyes of a dice. Additionally or alternatively, 12 of the 17 recesses are preferably arranged in the sense of a rectangle or square, in particular between the apex region of the convex shape 21 or the dome-like elevation of the cover 20 and an edge region of the cover 20.

[0060] Furthermore, the corresponding side view according to Fig. 2C that the convex shape 21 or the dome-like elevation of the cover 20 has a vertex surface 23. In other words, the convex shape 21 or the dome-like elevation flattens in an area around the corresponding vertex or in an area around the corresponding fictitious vertex.

[0061] It may be particularly advantageous if the above-mentioned 5 of 17 recesses, which are arranged in particular in the sense of the five eyes of a dice, are arranged in the region of the apex surface.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, the recess arranged in the center of these five recesses and provided, for example, with the reference numeral 22 can be arranged at the corresponding vertex or at the corresponding fictitious vertex. Furthermore, additionally or alternatively, the remaining four recesses of these five recesses can be arranged at least partially, preferably entirely, in the region of the vertex surface.

[0063] Furthermore, with regard to the recesses, it should be mentioned that it can be particularly advantageous if the at least one recess or recesses are arranged based on the type of operation to be trained and / or the type of robot-assisted surgical system used. This advantageously creates the most realistic access possible to the organ to be operated on in the training scenario. A further advantage is that this effectively prevents the corresponding manipulators of the robot-assisted surgical system used from interfering with or even blocking each other.

[0064] Furthermore, with regard to the cover 20, it should be pointed out that it can be particularly advantageous if a camera, in particular a three-dimensional camera, is arranged on the surface of the cover 20 facing the surgical training device 10.

[0065] Furthermore, the cover 20 may have an interface which is connected to the camera, in particular the three-dimensional camera, and is configured to be connected to the surgical training device 10 and / or to at least one other device, for example a monitor and / or a computer.

[0066] It can be particularly advantageous if the interface includes or is a USB interface and / or a Bluetooth interface. This can significantly reduce the amount of surgical equipment required, especially since bulky and expensive endoscopy systems can be replaced by a mobile computer, tablet computer, or smartphone, for example. Another advantage is that not all participants necessarily have to be in the same location to conduct surgical training. For example, it is possible to transmit the relevant camera data remotely to a tutor, who can then supervise the surgical training remotely without being on-site.

[0067] It should also be noted that each of the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C shows a locking element 24 in each case.

[0068] It may be particularly advantageous if the cover 20 has at least one such locking element 24 for locking the cover 20 to the surgical training device 10. In this context, in particular, at least one of the at least one locking elements, for example the locking element 24, is designed as a region arranged in the edge region of the cover 20, in which the basic shape of the edge region of the cover 20 is deviated from, preferably in order to form a corresponding locking region.

[0069] With respect to the central region of the cover 20, the locking region extends in particular beyond the basic shape of the edge region or beyond the edge region of the cover 20. In other words, a corresponding diameter or a corresponding major or minor axis of the cover 20 is largest in particular in the region of the locking element 24 or in the locking region.

[0070] It should also be mentioned that it may be particularly advantageous if the surgical training device 10 has at least one holding element which is designed such that the at least one locking element, for example the locking element 24, locks to it, in particular if the cover 20 covers the surgical training device 10.

[0071] At least one of the at least one holding element can preferably be designed as a projection. With respect to the central region of the surgical training device 10, the at least one holding element or the at least one projection extends, in particular, beyond the basic shape of the edge region or beyond the edge region of the surgical training device 10. In other words, a corresponding diameter or a corresponding major or minor axis of the surgical training device 10 is greatest, in particular, in the region of the at least one holding element or the at least one projection.

[0072] Furthermore, the at least one holding element, preferably the at least one projection, is arranged in particular in a region of the surgical training device 10 which is covered by the cover 20.

[0073] Furthermore, it should be noted that it may be particularly advantageous, particularly in connection with the at least one locking element or the locking element 24, if the cover 20 has a release mechanism. This release mechanism serves to release the cover 20 from the surgical training device 10, particularly when the cover 20 is locked to the surgical training device 10, and is used in the context of Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B is described in more detail.

[0074] In anticipation, it should be noted that it may be particularly advantageous if at least one, preferably each, of the 17 recesses of the cover 20 has at least one detachable element. Such detachable elements are described in the context of Fig. 4 to 6. Before that, the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B a first part 30a and a second part 30b of a two-part embodiment of the cover according to the invention.

[0075] Since the provisions of Part 30a in accordance with Fig. 3A and the second part 30b according to Fig. 3B combined cover of the first exemplary embodiment of the cover according to the invention according to the Fig. 2A to 2C are essentially similar, the following section will focus in particular on the corresponding differences.

[0076] Fig. 3A shows that essentially the edge area of ​​the cover 20 is Fig. 2A-C, the first part 30a is designed as the first part 30a. Accordingly, this first part 30a is preferably a ring, which in particular has an oval or elliptical basic shape.

[0077] It may be particularly advantageous if the major axis of the corresponding ellipse is between 15 percent and 37 percent, preferably between 24 percent and 35 percent, particularly preferably between 26 percent and 33 percent, most particularly preferably between 28 percent and 32 percent, larger than the corresponding minor axis with respect to the corresponding ring exterior.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively, it may be particularly advantageous if the major axis of the corresponding ellipse is between 3 percent and 11 percent, preferably between 4 percent and 10 percent, particularly preferably between 5 percent and 9 percent, most preferably between 6 percent and 8 percent, larger than the corresponding minor axis with respect to the corresponding ring interior.

[0079] Furthermore, Fig. 3B that essentially the convex shape 21 or the dome-like elevation of the cover 20 according to Fig. 2A-C, the second part 30b is designed as the second part 30b. The second part 30b has an oval or elliptical basic shape. It can be particularly advantageous if the major axis of the corresponding ellipse is between 3 percent and 11 percent, preferably between 4 percent and 10 percent, particularly preferably between 5 percent and 9 percent, and most particularly preferably between 6 percent and 8 percent, larger than the corresponding minor axis.

[0080] It should also be noted that the second part 30b preferably does not have a vertex surface, but essentially has a vertex. Furthermore, the second part 30b has, in particular, 12 recesses. 4 of these 12 recesses are preferably arranged on the above-mentioned main axis of the second part 30b. Further preferably, one of the two of the above-mentioned 4 recesses that are furthest away from the corresponding edge region of the second part 30b forms the middle recess of 5 recesses, which are preferably arranged in the sense of the five eyes of a dice. The corresponding remaining 4 of the total 12 recesses can preferably be arranged mirror-symmetrically to the above-mentioned main axis.

[0081] It should also be noted that it may be particularly advantageous if at least one, preferably each, of the 12 recesses of the cover, which is combined in particular by nesting and / or plugging the first part 30a and the second part 30b, has at least one detachable element. As already announced above, such detachable elements are used in the context of Fig. 4 to 6 are explained in more detail.

[0082] Fig. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of the detachable element according to the invention. In particular, Fig. 4 shows a first part 40 of an exemplary embodiment of the detachable element according to the invention, which is particularly designed to be connected to a corresponding second part, for example the second part 50 according to Fig. 5. Thus, in particular, the corresponding combination of the first part 40 according to Fig. 4 and the second part 50 after Fig. 5 shows a first exemplary embodiment of the detachable element according to the invention.

[0083] In the sense of Fig. 4, the detachable element or the first part of the detachable element is in particular a trocar receptacle 40 which is designed to allow a trocar access to the interior of the surgical training device when the latter is covered with the cover and the trocar receptacle 40 is arranged or inserted in the corresponding recess of the cover.

[0084] The trocar receptacle 40 is preferably designed in a screw-like manner, with the corresponding shaft of the screw being, in particular, completely hollow. The completely hollow design is to be understood in particular to mean that the corresponding head region of the screw is also hollow or recessed. Accordingly, the screw preferably has a ring 41 in the head region.

[0085] It may be particularly advantageous if the corresponding inner diameter of this ring 41, which in particular has a round basic shape, is between 20 mm and 30 mm, preferably between 21 mm and 29 mm, particularly preferably between 23 mm and 27 mm, very particularly preferably between 24 mm and 26 mm.

[0086] In particular, to use the trocar receptacle 40, it is inserted into the corresponding recesses so that the thread 42 of the trocar receptacle 40 protrudes into the interior of the surgical training device when the latter is covered by the cover. Additionally, an elastic material is inserted between the surface of the cover facing away from the surgical training device and the trocar receptacle 40, in particular its ring 41, so that at least the interior of the ring 41 is covered and / or closed by the elastic material, which in particular results in the corresponding recess being covered and / or closed.

[0087] Preferably, the elastic material is designed to mimic the human and / or animal abdominal wall. It can be particularly advantageous if the elastic material consists of rubber and / or an elastomer and / or polyethylene and / or neoprene. The elastic material can, for example, be a cut-out of neoprene.

[0088] Preferably, the elastic material can have at least two layers. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic material can have fiber reinforcement, in particular glass fiber reinforcement or carbon fiber reinforcement. Further preferably, the fiber reinforcement, in particular glass fiber reinforcement or carbon fiber reinforcement, can have a crossed structure. The material or base material of the trocar receptacle 40 can, for example, correspond to that of the cover.

[0089] In the sense of Fig. 5, the detachable element or the second part of the detachable element is, in particular, a clamping ring 50, which is designed to interact with the trocar receptacle 40 so that it is reliably fixed in the corresponding recess. For this interaction, the clamping ring 50 preferably has an internal thread 51.

[0090] In particular, to apply the clamping ring 50, it is screwed from the surface of the cover facing the surgical training device onto the trocar receptacle 40, whose thread 42 projects into the interior of the surgical training device when the latter is covered by the cover. Thus, the elastic material inserted between the surface of the cover facing away from the surgical training device and the trocar receptacle 40, in particular its ring 41, as well as the trocar receptacle 40, are securely clamped in the region of the corresponding recess.

[0091] The material or the base material of the clamping ring 50 can, for example, correspond to that of the cover and / or that of the trocar receptacle 40. It should be noted that the first exemplary embodiment of the detachable element according to the invention, which results from the combination of the first part or the trocar receptacle 40 according to Fig. 4 and the second part or the clamping ring 50 according to Fig. 5, in particular to cover and / or close the recesses of the cover which are used or penetrated during the corresponding surgical training.

[0092] Fig. Figure 6 shows a second exemplary embodiment of the detachable element according to the invention, which serves in particular to cover and / or close the recesses of the cover that are not used or penetrated during the corresponding surgical training. Fig. 6, the detachable element is, in particular, a closure plug 60, which is designed to reliably close the corresponding recess. The material or base material of the closure plug 60 can consist, for example, of rubber and / or an elastomer and / or polyethylene and / or silicone.

[0093] Fig. Figure 6 further shows that the closure plug 60 preferably has a round basic shape. It may be particularly advantageous if the corresponding diameter of the round or circular basic shape is between 30 mm and 50 mm, preferably between 33 mm and 47 mm, particularly preferably between 35 mm and 45 mm, and most preferably between 38 mm and 43 mm.

[0094] In particular in this context it should be noted that it can be particularly advantageous if the respective diameter of the corresponding recess is between 29 mm and 49 mm, preferably between 32 mm and 46 mm, particularly preferably between 34 mm and 44 mm, most preferably between 37 mm and 42 mm.

[0095] In particular, the closure plug 60 may have a truncated cone, wherein a disk, preferably a round or circular disk, is arranged on the cover surface of the truncated cone. Fig. 6, the disc has a first diameter, the corresponding area being provided with the reference numeral 61, for example. Furthermore, the base surface of the truncated cone has a second diameter, the corresponding area being provided with the reference numeral 62, for example.

[0096] Furthermore, it can be particularly advantageous if the base surface of the truncated cone changes in a direction away from the cover surface of the truncated cone to form a bottom surface. This bottom surface has a third diameter, with the corresponding area being provided with the reference numeral 63, for example. In particular, to use the closure plug 60, the plug is inserted, with the bottom surface first, into the corresponding recess from the surface of the cover facing away from the surgical training device.

[0097] It may be particularly advantageous if the first diameter is larger than the second diameter and / or the third diameter. Additionally or alternatively, the second diameter may be smaller than the first diameter and / or larger than the third diameter. Further additionally or alternatively, the third diameter may be smaller than the first diameter and / or the second diameter.

[0098] It can also be particularly advantageous if the first diameter is between 42 mm and 44 mm, preferably 43 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the second diameter can be between 39 mm and 41 mm, preferably 40 mm. Further additionally or alternatively, the third diameter can be between 37 mm and 39 mm, preferably 38 mm. Furthermore, it should be mentioned that the distance between the disc and the base of the truncated cone can be between 1 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 6 mm, particularly preferably between 3 mm and 5 mm, and most particularly preferably 4 mm.

[0099] Furthermore, it should be noted that the angle enclosed by the disc and the lateral surface of the truncated cone can be between 40 degrees and 48 degrees, preferably between 41 degrees and 47 degrees, particularly preferably between 42 degrees and 46 degrees, most particularly preferably between 43 degrees and 45 degrees.

[0100] With regard to the at least one detachable element or elements within the meaning of the invention, it should be noted that this can also be realized as follows: Two substantially identical covers can be used within the meaning of the invention to at least partially clamp an elastic material, for example the elastic material mentioned above, between these two covers according to the invention. The aforementioned phrase "substantially identical" is to be understood in particular to mean that the two covers differ in size to the extent that they can be inserted into one another or arranged one above the other.

[0101] While Fig. 7A the embodiment according to Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B with exemplary inserted manipulators or instruments 71 to 74 in three-dimensional view, Fig. 7B shows this embodiment in a side view. In addition, the Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B shows the elements 40, 50, and 60 already described above, which were used accordingly. Furthermore, the aforementioned elastic material can be seen, for example in the form of a neoprene blank, which is provided with the reference numeral 43.

[0102] Fig. Figure 8 illustrates an example of robot-assisted surgery according to the invention. In particular, Fig. 8 shows a robot-assisted surgical system 80. The system 80 has a console 81, in particular a computer console, which is configured to display an image of the interior of a patient 86. For this purpose, the robot-assisted surgical system 80 has a camera 83, in particular an endoscopic camera, which is configured to record the interior of the patient 86 and transmit it to the console 81. In addition, the corresponding recording by the camera 83 can also be transmitted to a display unit 82, in particular to a monitor, which is located, for example, in the immediate vicinity of the patient 86.

[0103] Furthermore, a surgeon 85 can control the corresponding manipulators 84 of the robot-assisted surgical system 80 using the console 81. In this case, the surgeon 85 can even operate in spatial separation from the patient 86. In particular, in order to apply the surgical training system according to the invention, Fig. In the example shown in Figure 8, patient 86 can be replaced by the aforementioned surgical training system.

[0104] Furthermore, it should be noted that, particularly in the case of a fully automated robotic surgical system, the surgical training system according to the invention can be used to test the functionality of such a fully automated robotic surgical system. Advantageously, such a fully automated robotic surgical system is fundamentally capable of performing an operation without corresponding control by a surgeon. At least during the operation—except possibly in the event of a complication—there is advantageously no human control.

[0105] In other words, the surgical training system according to the second aspect of the invention can be used as a test system for a robotic surgical system, in particular for a fully automated robotic surgical system. This test system comprises a surgical training device that can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal organ, for example, the one according to Fig. 1, and a cover according to the invention, for example one in the sense of Fig. 2A-C or 3A and 3B.

[0106] As already mentioned in the description of the Fig. 1 mentioned, shows Fig. 9 shows a detailed illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptation element 11 according to the invention. The adaptation element 11 is illustrated in the context of an exemplary embodiment of a surgical training system 90 according to the invention, which has the surgical training device 10 described above and the cover 20.

[0107] The adaptation element 11 is configured to replicate the corresponding orifice of the human or animal body, particularly depending on the type of surgery to be trained. Accordingly, it is particularly advantageous if different adaptation elements exist for the surgical training device 10, which differ, in particular, in the respective diameter of their corresponding orifice.

[0108] Furthermore, it should be noted that the adaptation element 11 is or can be connected in particular to the human and / or animal organ 17.

[0109] Furthermore, Fig. 9 that the surgical training device 10 has an opening 19, in particular with a ball joint. This opening 19 is preferably designed to releasably receive the adaptation element 11.

[0110] It may be particularly advantageous if the opening 19 is arranged on or in the surgical training device 10 in such a way that the position of the opening 19 with respect to the human and / or animal organ 17 inserted into the surgical training device 10 essentially corresponds to the natural position of the corresponding body opening of the human or animal body, which is simulated by the adaptation element 11, with respect to the corresponding organ.

[0111] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in particular to detachably connect the replaceable adaptation element 11 to the surgical training device 10, the adaptation element 11 is first inserted from the interior of the surgical training device 10 into the opening 19 or into the corresponding ball joint of the opening 19, and then a fixing ring 91 is pressed toward the corresponding ball center, so that the adaptation element 11 is locked accordingly. Specifically, the fixing ring 91 and the adaptation element 11 can preferably engage in this manner.

[0112] As already mentioned in the context of the description of the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C mentioned, shows Fig. 10A shows an exemplary embodiment of a release mechanism 25 according to the invention. The release mechanism 25 according to the invention is shown in the context of an exemplary embodiment of a surgical training system 90a according to the invention.

[0113] According to Fig. 10A, the operation training system 90a has the operation training device 10, which also includes the Fig. 9, as well as the cover 20a. This cover 20a essentially corresponds to the cover 20 already described, but additionally has the release mechanism 25 for releasing the cover 20a from the surgical training device 10, in particular when the cover is locked to the surgical training device 10 by means of the at least one locking element, for example by means of the locking element 24.

[0114] Furthermore, it can be seen that the release mechanism 25 has, in particular, a lever-like element 26, which is designed to release the corresponding locking of the cover 20a on the surgical training device 10 when pulled. The lever-like element can preferably be a lever.

[0115] It may be particularly advantageous if the release mechanism 25 is arranged in the area, in particular in the vicinity, of at least one of the at least one locking element, for example the locking element 24.

[0116] Furthermore, the corresponding sectional view of the release mechanism 25 according to the invention, which is shown by Fig. 10B, it can be seen that the lever-like element 26 is rotatably arranged on an axis 27. This axis 27 is preferably arranged substantially parallel to the edge region of the cover 20a. Further preferably, the lever-like element 26 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the edge region of the cover 20a.

[0117] It may further be particularly advantageous if the rotatable arrangement of the lever-like element 26 on the axis 27 is designed such that a first part 28 of the lever-like element 26, which in particular points away from the edge region of the cover 20a, is larger than a second part 29 of the lever-like element, which in particular points towards the edge region of the cover 20a.

[0118] Preferably, the lever-like element is configured such that, by pulling on the lever-like element 26, in particular on the first part 28 of the lever-like element 26, a part, in particular the second part 29, of the lever-like element 26 presses against the surgical training device 10 and / or displaces the cover 20a in the vertical direction. Regarding the vertical direction, it should be noted that this runs, in particular, substantially perpendicular to the edge region of the cover 20a.

[0119] Further preferably, the pressure caused by the part, in particular by the second part 29, of the lever-like element 26 against the operation training device 10 and / or the displacement of the cover 20a in the vertical direction caused by the part, in particular by the second part 29, of the lever-like element 26 is suitable for overcoming or releasing the locking caused by the at least one locking element, for example by the locking element 24.

[0120] Finally, Fig. 11 an exemplary flow diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the invention for using the cover according to the invention, for example the cover according to Fig. 2A-C or the cover according to a combination of Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B. It should be noted that the method is a training method which is not primarily applied to human or animal bodies, but explicitly for training purposes outside the human body.

[0121] In a first step 100, the cover is placed on a surgical training device that can be equipped or is equipped with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ, for example on the surgical training device according to Fig. 1, is applied. Then, according to a second step 101 of the method, the penetration of the cover, preferably of the convex shape, particularly preferably of at least one of the at least one recess, very particularly preferably of at least one of the at least one detachable element of the respective corresponding recess, takes place with the aid of at least one surgical instrument, in particular with the aid of at least one trocar.

[0122] The invention is not limited to the embodiments discussed above. All features described in the description, claimed in the patent claims, or shown in the drawings can be combined with one another as desired within the scope of this invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 0 624 861 A2

[0003]

Claims

[1] A cover (20, 20a, 30b) for a surgical training device (10) which can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ (17), wherein the cover (20, 20a, 30b) is designed to simulate at least part of a human and / or animal abdominal wall, wherein the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has at least partially a convex shape (21) with respect to the operation training device (10), and wherein the convex shape (21) and / or the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has a plurality of recesses (22), wherein some recesses (22), in particular in the apex region of the convex shape (21), are arranged in the sense of the five eyes of a dice and / or some recesses (22), in particular between the apex region of the convex shape (21) and an edge region of the cover (20, 20a, 30b), are arranged in the sense of a rectangle or square. [2] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to claim 1, wherein the convex shape (21) and / or the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has a rigid, in particular flexurally rigid, structure and / or wherein the convex shape (21) is arranged in a central region of the surgical device (10). [3] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least the convex shape (21) is designed to simulate at least a part of the part of the human and / or animal abdominal wall that covers a region correspondingly insufflated during an operation. [4] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the convex shape (21) is formed as a dome-like elevation with respect to the operation training device (10). [5] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the convex shape (21) and / or the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has a round or oval basic shape. [6] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the plurality of recesses (22) has a round or oval basic shape. [7] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the plurality of recesses (22) has at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60). [8] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to claim 7, wherein the at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60) covers and / or closes the respective corresponding recess (22). [9] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60) is designed to simulate the human and / or animal abdominal wall, and / or wherein at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60) comprises an elastic base material, and / or wherein at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60) consists of rubber and / or an elastomer and / or polyethylene and / or silicone. [10] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60) has at least two layers, and / or wherein at least one, preferably each, of the at least one detachable element (40, 50, 60) has a fiber reinforcement, preferably a glass fiber reinforcement or carbon fiber reinforcement. [11] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to claim 10, wherein the fiber reinforcement, preferably the glass fiber reinforcement or carbon fiber reinforcement, has a crossed structure. [12] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a base material of the cover (20, 20a, 30b) comprises polyethylene and / or high density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polycarbonate. [13] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has at least one locking element (24) for locking the cover (20, 20a, 30b) to the surgical training device (10), wherein in particular at least one of the at least one locking element (24) is designed as a region arranged in the edge region of the cover (20, 20a, 30b), in which the basic shape of the edge region of the cover (20, 20a, 30b) is deviated from. [14] The cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cover (20, 20a, 30b) has a release mechanism (25) for releasing the cover (20, 20a, 30b) from the surgical training device (10), in particular when the cover (20, 20a, 30b) is locked to the surgical training device (10), wherein in particular the release mechanism (25) has a lever-like element (26) which is designed to release the corresponding locking of the cover (20, 20a, 30b) on the operation training device (10) when pulled. [15] An operation training system (90, 90a) comprising: an operation training device (10) which can be equipped with at least one human and / or animal and / or synthetic organ (17), and a cover (20, 20a, 30b) according to one of claims 1 to 14. [16] The operation training system (90, 90a) according to claim 15, wherein the surgical training device (10) has an exchangeable adaptation element (11) which is detachably connectable or connected to the surgical training device (10), wherein the replaceable adaptation element (11) is adapted to in particular, according to the type of operation to be trained, to recreate the corresponding orifice of the human or animal body, wherein the detachable connection of the exchangeable adaptation element (11) to the surgical training device (10) has in particular a joint, preferably a ball joint.

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