Medical fluid pump with remote support potential

Abstract

The present invention relates to an operating mode of a medical device for assistance and device training by a service collaborator connected via a data line. The present invention particularly relates to the simulation of the operating state of an insufflation device using a computer located at another location, e.g. a training center. The present invention further relates to the simulation of the operating state of a medical fluid pump using a computer located at another location, e.g. a training center.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a mode of operation of a medical device for assistance and device training by a service associate connected via a data line. [Background technology]

[0002] Remote assistance or remote maintenance has already been described for some time, for example in US Pat. No. 5,399,343, entitled "Method and device for inspecting and maintaining data processing devices by means of spatially separated maintenance stations". The possibility of connection via existing network connections has also already been described, for example in US Pat. No. 5,499,343, entitled "Remote maintenance and servicing of a network peripheral device over the world wide web" or in US Pat. No. 5,499,353, entitled "Remote maintenance and servicing of a network peripheral device over the world wide web". Further prior art is formed by US Pat. No. 5,399,353, US Pat. No. 5,499,353 and US Pat. No. 5,523,636.

[0003] What is not yet known are solutions for training or product education on medical devices via such a network or Internet connection. In particular, in order to protect the patient, it must be ensured that no adjustments that harm the patient are made via a remote connection. It must also be ensured that no unauthorized interventions are made from the outside during the progress of the treatment. In this case, risks arise since effects are recognized locally - either on the patient or by looking into similarly used devices such as anesthesia monitors - that are not reliably known to the remote user. Therefore, device control or use via a remote connection must be reliably excluded in the patient's treatment. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] German Patent No. 2350371 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 6,473,788 [Patent Document 3] European Patent No. 1450542 [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2012 / 040221 [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2013 / 091814 [Patent Document 6] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0173276 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The invention relates primarily to an insufflation device for minimally invasive surgery, which is arranged to be able to assist, in particular to be able to simulate operating conditions remotely.

[0006] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to a pneumoperitoneum device for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a gas connection equipped with a proportional valve; b) the first trocar; c) a gas supply line from the gas connection, with a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar; d) a suction device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to a suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer the electronic adjustment unit transmits the actual adjustment of the insufflation device to a remote computer via an interface; the remote computer simulates treatment of the patient and transmits operating values ​​resulting from the simulation back to the insufflation device via the interface; The display unit of the insufflation device displays the simulated operating values.

[0007] The pneumoperitoneum device is essentially a medical device, as described in various forms in the prior art, and therefore a detailed description of the individual elements and functions is unnecessary here.

[0008] In the inventive embodiment of such an insufflation device, it includes an interface to a remote, i.e. located, computer. The distance of the insufflation device from the remote computer is therefore practically arbitrary. Thus, the insufflation device in the hospital can be connected to a computer, for example in the training center of the insufflation device manufacturer. Corresponding transmission protocols are also known in principle for reliable transmission. The remote computer furthermore simulates the treatment as described below and transmits the operating values ​​resulting from the simulation back to the insufflation device. In this way, the operation of the insufflation device can be familiarized to the operator.

[0009] To ensure patient safety, the insufflation device usually indicates that the device is operating in simulation mode. The indication is then optical and / or acoustic.

[0010] During the simulation, it is purposefully ensured that the gas flow of the insufflation device is completely blocked, so that no simulation of abnormal operating states is inadvertently performed on a real patient. In a special embodiment of the invention, however, it is also possible to connect the insufflation device to a dummy in order to test further functions. A dummy is understood to be an artificial test object having similar properties to the body part connected to the medical device. This can be, for example, an elastic balloon that can be inflated like the lower abdomen. Naturally, it can also be a doll (possibly equipped with sensors) whose size and weight proportions correspond to those of a human being and which has a corresponding cavity that can be inflated with gas or liquid. The operating method using a dummy also makes it possible to replace the probe, for example in the case of simulating a probe blockage, as well as to proceed in the case of an accidental leak. However, such an operating method ensures that the dummy is not actually connected to the patient before the actual gas flow is generated. This can be achieved, for example, by providing the probe and the dummy for the simulation mode with a special data medium. In this case, for example, an RFID module is important, which signals the insufflation device to which the special simulation probe and dummy are connected.

[0011] A further embodiment of the invention consists in the remote computer being connected to a second identical insufflation device, which can for example be connected to a dummy, which in this embodiment can perform a simulation and transmit back to the first simulator the operating values ​​(for example pressures, volumetric flows, etc.) measured during the simulation setup.

[0012] As an alternative to the embodiment with a second identical insufflation device, it is of course also possible for the simulation to proceed on software, which usually runs on a second computer and thus allows the operating conditions to be simulated remotely, for example under the control of a training operator in the training center of the insufflation device manufacturer, who can thus transmit the operation of the insufflation device, including the correction of errors or the overcoming of abnormal operating conditions (caused, for example, by a blocked probe).

[0013] During the simulation, in addition to the data connection, there is also an audio or video connection between the training person and the operator of the insufflation device (e.g. a doctor or surgeon). A videoconferencing tool, which can also be integrated into the insufflation device, can be used expediently. The training person can thus recognize operating errors and transmit corrections.

[0014] In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the software can also be run directly on the insufflation device to simulate the operating conditions. In this case, it is also ensured that no patient is connected to the insufflation device during the simulation. Similar to the above mentioned possibilities, it is also possible in this case that the gas flow is completely shut off or that only a dummy is connected to the insufflation device by technical safety measures. In this case, the simulated operating conditions are transmitted to a remote computer (e.g. a training center), so that a training operator can monitor the simulation. In this case, an audio or video connection with the training operator is also desirable in order to monitor the simulation and correct any errors that may occur.

[0015] The present invention therefore also relates to a pneumoperitoneum device for minimally invasive surgery, which comprises: a) a gas connection equipped with a proportional valve; b) the first trocar; c) a gas supply line from the gas connection, with a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar; d) a suction device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to a suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer Within the interface, an electronic adjustment unit runs software that simulates a patient treatment based on the actual adjustments of the insufflation device and displays the operating values ​​resulting from this simulation on a display unit of the insufflation device and on a remote computer.

[0016] The solution according to the invention therefore consists in a special mode of operation which does not allow the introduction or evacuation of inflation media into the patient's body.

[0017] All steps solved by the user in the device are, in a preferred operating mode, represented purely by indications on the input / operating surface of the medical product, without the activation of corresponding actuators in the device. The device is then used for purely simulator operation. This operating surface is then preferably overlaid with a clearly recognizable optical signal, for example a watermark "Training mode" or a special coloring of the operating surface. Alternatively or in parallel, the training state can be indicated by an acoustic signal, for example the phrase "Training mode - press "Exit" to return to patient treatment", which is repeatedly played back when a key is pressed. This signal prevents the user from assuming that patient treatment can be performed in the real mode.

[0018] For the solution according to the invention, a network connection is required as a prerequisite at the device. This can be formed as an Internet access or any other connection to a network, in which a technician or expert at a remote location can have a data connection to the device. Optionally, this technician can in parallel have an audio / video connection to the user who he / she is to train or assist on the medical device.

[0019] In the embodiment "Remote Training", user inputs are received by the executive control stored in the device or through a remote connection with the executive control by a remote computer and converted into estimated display values. The display values ​​are added with notes - in text form, as audio recordings, or by a technician or expert at a remote location - to modifications made. The time course includes not only the expected and achieved performance, but also unexpected display values ​​to train the user in fault finding, fault removal and counter reactions in faults and undesired conditions. An audio / telephone connection to a technician is created by the medical device according to the invention. Also according to the invention, an audio / telephone connection or video conference with an educator is created in parallel. In both cases (audio / telephone connection by the medical device or parallel possibility), the educator remotely accesses the operating surface of the medical device, i.e. the display, which the user monitors, either by viewing it himself or by influencing its values, interacting with it or initiating training units that process certain display values ​​and user inputs. As the remote educator interacts, the interaction is optically displayed in accordance with the invention, for example by a mouse cursor or finger symbol representing a control.

[0020] The invention likewise includes a computer program that runs on a remote computer and simulates the execution of a medical procedure, i.e. receives user inputs and generates information on the medical device in response to predefined situations over time that correspond to the relay of user knowledge rather than the normal course of events, or simulates the normal performance of the medical device, creates possible errors or critical situations, and trains the user's solution possibilities. For example, a message may read "Probe set blocked!", for which a selection of action possibilities is presented to the user as a selectable option. This is done via selectable symbols on the touch screen of the medical product or, if the control is arranged, for example, on the screen frame, for example, on a key with a microswitch.

[0021] The knowledge transmitted through this computer program is all you need for product training:

[0022] - Medical equipment start-up, The meaning of the indication, Possibility of adjustment and its memory Stored selection possibilities or presets, - the course of a medical procedure - each of the procedures usually performed with medical equipment; Possible error information, warnings and alerts and their meanings, Elimination of erroneous information or conditions leading to inadequate performance of medical devices; -Demonstration of optical and acoustic transmission, confirmation of transmission, ·others Includes.

[0023] Likewise, the operating mode "support" according to the invention allows a user in a critical situation to connect to an external expert who can interpret the observed and described situation and can see all device parameters, including the operating aspects, but cannot make any adjustments. This "support"-mode is restricted to the exclusion of patient treatment, i.e. to allow only a one-way transfer of information (from the medical device to the outside) for queries during medical procedures involving the treatment of a patient. In a further development of the invention, the information is confirmed by an external device connected to the medical device for device control or an assigned operating element is pressed to authorize execution.

[0024] In a further operating mode "SERVICE", a connection is made in the medical device to a service center where new operating software / updates can be played or data on the status of the medical device can be read from the medical device via a connection to a device in the service center.

[0025] Such a connection, according to the invention, takes into account various safety aspects, inter alia:

[0026] Reading the serial number or unique identification tag of medical devices, End-to-end encryption of all data sent and received; Sending commands to specific hardware components and evaluating the reactions of these components resulting from their execution, including, for example, the generation of specific codes (e.g. so-called cryptographic chips) in response to queries; - Execution of operational software updates only after on-site interaction to exclude incorrect updates during the procedure is required.

[0027] Further safety elements according to the prior art are likewise considered according to the invention.

[0028] The invention may equally be practiced in other formats such as arthroscopy, where a suitable scavenging pump (eg, a roller pump) is used to pump fluid for expansion within the joint.

[0029] The present invention therefore also relates to a medical fluid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a liquid tank; b) the first trocar; c) a liquid supply line for liquid from the tank, the liquid supply line having a pressure sensor, a liquid flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar; d) a liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to a liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer the electronic regulation unit transmits the actual regulation of the medical fluid pump to a remote computer via an interface; the remote computer simulates the treatment of the patient and transmits operating values ​​resulting from the simulation back to the medical fluid pump via the interface; A display unit of the medical fluid pump displays the simulated operating values.

[0030] Medical fluid pumps are fundamentally medical devices, as described in various forms in the prior art, and therefore a detailed description of each individual element and function is unnecessary here.

[0031] The function and method of operation of such a medical fluid pump according to the invention correspond to those of the insufflation device described above, so reference is made thereto to avoid repetition.

[0032] The present invention relates accordingly to a medical fluid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a liquid tank; b) the first trocar; c) a liquid supply line for liquid from the tank, the liquid supply line having a pressure sensor, a liquid flow sensor and a connection to the first trocar; d) a liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to a liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer Within the interface, an electronic regulation unit runs software that simulates a patient treatment based on the actual regulation of the medical fluid pump and displays operating values ​​resulting from this simulation on a display unit of the medical fluid pump and on a remote computer. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] The present invention is basically depicted in FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment in which the insufflation device of the present invention is connected to a second insufflation device of the same type. [Explanation of symbols]

[0034] The reference symbols used in FIG. 1 have the following meaning: (1) Gas connection (2) Proportional valve (3) Gas supply pipes (4) Volumetric flow adjustment (5) Pressure sensor (6) Volumetric flow sensor (7) First trocar (8) Cavity (9) Suction probe (10) Second trocar (11) Suction device with adjustable suction tube (optional) (12) Electronic control unit (13) Display device (14) Interface (15) Remote Computer (16) Remote computer display device The reference symbols used in FIG. 2 have the following meaning: (1) / (1') Gas connection (2) / (2') Proportional Valve (3) / (3') Gas supply pipe (4) / (4') Volumetric flow adjustment (5) / (5') Pressure Sensor (6) / (6') Volumetric Flow Sensor (7) / (7') First trocar (8) / (8') hollow (9) / (9') Suction probe (10) / (10') 2nd trocar (11) / (11') Suction device with adjustable suction tube (optional) (12) / (12') Electronic Control Unit (13) / (13') Display device (14) Interface (15) Remote Computer (16) Remote computer display device

Claims

1. 1. A pneumoperitoneum device for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a gas connection equipped with a proportional valve; b) a first trocar; c) a gas supply line from said gas connection, said gas supply line including a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to said first trocar; d) Aspiration device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to said suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer Including, the electronic adjustment unit transmits the actual adjustments of the insufflation device to the remote computer via the interface; the remote computer simulates treatment of a patient and transmits operating values ​​resulting from the simulation back to the insufflation device via the interface; The display unit of the insufflation apparatus displays the simulated operating value.

2. 2. The insufflation device of claim 1, wherein the insufflation device provides an optical and / or acoustic indication when a simulation is performed.

3. The insufflation device of claim 1 , wherein the insufflation device completely blocks gas flow during the simulation.

4. The insufflation apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insufflation apparatus is connected to a dummy during the simulation.

5. 2. The insufflation device of claim 1, wherein the remote computer performs a simulation of the treatment by connecting a second insufflation device of the same type, the second insufflation device being connected to a dummy.

6. The insufflation device of claim 1 , wherein the remote computer performs the simulation of the treatment by software.

7. The insufflation device of claim 1 , further comprising an audio or video connection to the remote computer.

8. 2. The insufflation device according to claim 1, wherein the remote computer also simulates instruments, accessories and / or execution errors within the framework of the simulation.

9. 1. A pneumoperitoneum device for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a gas connection equipped with a proportional valve; b) a first trocar; c) a gas supply line from said gas connection, said gas supply line including a pressure sensor, a gas flow sensor and a connection to said first trocar; d) Aspiration device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to said suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer Including, An insufflation device, within which the electronic adjustment unit operates software which simulates patient treatment based on actual adjustments of the insufflation device and displays operating values ​​resulting from the simulation on the display unit of the insufflation device and on the remote computer.

10. 10. The insufflation device of claim 9, wherein the insufflation device provides an optical and / or acoustic indication when a simulation is performed.

11. The insufflation device of claim 9 , wherein the insufflation device completely blocks gas flow during the simulation.

12. The insufflation apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the insufflation apparatus is connected to a dummy during the simulation.

13. 10. The insufflation device according to claim 9, wherein the remote computer also simulates instruments, accessories and / or execution errors within the framework of the simulation.

14. 1. A medical fluid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a liquid tank; b) a first trocar; c) a liquid supply line for liquid from said tank, said supply line including a pressure sensor, a liquid flow sensor and a connection to said first trocar; d) a liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to said liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer Including, the electronic regulation unit transmits the actual regulation of the medical fluid pump to the remote computer via the interface; the remote computer simulating a treatment for a patient and transmitting operating values ​​resulting from the simulation back to the medical fluid pump via the interface; The display unit of the medical fluid pump displays the simulated operating values.

15. 1. A medical fluid pump for minimally invasive surgery, comprising: a) a liquid tank; b) a first trocar; c) a liquid supply line for liquid from said tank, said supply line including a pressure sensor, a liquid flow sensor and a connection to said first trocar; d) a liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; e) a second trocar with a suction probe connected to said liquid suction device with an adjustable suction tube; f) electronic regulation unit; g) display device; h) Interface to a remote computer Including, A medical fluid pump, within which the electronic adjustment unit runs software that simulates a patient's treatment based on actual adjustments of the medical fluid pump and displays operating values ​​resulting from the simulation on the display unit of the medical fluid pump and on the remote computer.

16. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the medical fluid pump provides optical and / or acoustic indications when a simulation is performed.

17. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the medical fluid pump completely blocks gas flow during the simulation.

18. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the medical fluid pump is connected to a dummy during the simulation.

19. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the remote computer simulates the treatment by connecting a second medical fluid pump of the same type, the second medical fluid pump of the same type being connected to a dummy.

20. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the remote computer performs the simulation of the treatment by software.

21. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the medical fluid pump further has an audio or video connection to the remote computer.

22. 16. The medical fluid pump of claim 14 or 15, wherein the remote computer also simulates equipment, accessories and / or execution errors within the framework of the simulation.

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