Smart irrigation management system for operating rooms

Abstract

A surgical irrigation system may have an adjustable height stand holding multiple irrigation bags, a fluidic circuit coupling each bag to provide flow from a selectable bag to an output, and a controller managing flow rate based on user input. The controller may automatically select irrigation bags based on fluid levels, bag integrity, solution types, or other criteria. The stand height may adjust via actuators to, for example, optimize gravitational flow. An integrated heater may warm irrigation fluid to desired temperatures using temperature sensor feedback. The system may eliminate manual bag switching during surgery, provide precise flow and temperature control, and accommodate extended procedures with multiple irrigation solutions for surgical applications.

Description

SMART IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR OPERATING ROOMSCross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 655,652, filed on June 4, 2024, now pending, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.Field of the Disclosure

[0002] The present disclosure relates to medical devices, and more particularly, to smart control of surgical irrigation.Background of the Disclosure

[0003] During surgical procedures, irrigation fluids are commonly used to maintain clear visualization of the surgical site, remove debris, control bleeding, and provide thermal management of tissues. Traditional irrigation systems often require manual management of fluid bags, lack precise flow control, and do not provide automated switching between different irrigation solutions.

[0004] Existing surgical irrigation systems typically suffer from several limitations. First, they often require manual intervention to switch between different irrigation bags when one becomes empty or when a different irrigation solution is needed. This can interrupt surgical workflow and potentially compromise sterility. Second, many systems lack precise flow rate control, making it difficult for surgeons to maintain optimal irrigation pressure and volume. Third, conventional systems often do not provide adequate temperature control of irrigation fluids, which can affect patient comfort and surgical outcomes.

[0005] In the current surgical environment, 4-6 fluid bags (irrigation bags) can be hoisted on a pole. These bags are hoisted manually by surgical staff and replaced manually if needed during the procedure. Engaging a next bag when a current bag is empty is also a manual task for the surgical staff. Such bag handling procedures consumes a great deal of time from the operating room team.

[0006] Furthermore, controlling a flow of the irrigation fluid may use a pressure bag in which an irrigation bag is placed. A pressure in the pressure bag is adjusted manually by inflating the pressure bag with hand pump which increases the pressure on the irrigation bagincreasing the flow rate as a result. Additionally, separate devices are used to control a temperature of the irrigation fluid.

[0007] All of the existing operating methods for irrigation management are manual, require engagement of a dedicated individual in the operating room, consume valuable time during surgery, and breaks the flow of the surgery. In case of emergency or fluid bags running out at the critical moment, the performance of the surgeon can be affected due to inefficient irrigation system.

[0008] There is a need in the art for an improved surgical irrigation system that provides automated bag selection, precise flow control, and enhanced temperature management while maintaining ease of use and sterility during surgical procedures.Brief Summary of the Disclosure

[0009] The present disclosure provides a surgical irrigation system that addresses the limitations of conventional systems by offering automated irrigation bag selection, precise flow control, and integrated temperature management. The system includes a stand configured to hold multiple irrigation bags, a fluidic circuit for controlled fluid delivery, and an intelligent controller that manages flow rates and bag selection based on user inputs and system status.

[0010] The present disclosure may be embodied as a surgical irrigation system having a stand configured to hold a plurality of irrigation bags. A fluidic circuit is configured to couple each irrigation bag of the plurality of irrigation bags to an output in order to provide a flow of irrigation from a selectable one of the plurality of irrigation bags. A controller is provided and configured to automatically adjust a flow rate of the irrigation according to a user flow input. In some embodiments, a heater and / or a cooler is provided to heat and / or cool the flow of irrigation. The controller may be configured to control the heater and / or cooler to provide a desired temperature of irrigation based on a user temperature input.

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide many advantages, including:• Irrigation bags loaded on the holder are automatically engaged in sequence. Hence no requirement for a dedicated individual throughout the procedure.• An integrated system controls temperature, flow rate, as well as all the task of changing and engaging bags throughout the procedure hence optimizing the surgeon’s time and performance.• Only necessary bags are consumed or pierced during the procedure; hence any unused fluid bags are still sterile and can be saved for other procedures.Description of the Drawings

[0012] For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the disclosure, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0013] Figure 1 : An illustration of a surgical irrigation system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.Detailed Description of the Disclosure

[0014] The presently disclosed device is a smart automated irrigation management system which may automate and control the entire irrigation process throughout a surgical procedure, thereby simplifying the workload on the surgeon and the support team.

[0015] With reference to Figure 1, in an aspect, the present disclosure may be embodied as a surgical irrigation system 10 having a stand 20 configured to hold a plurality of irrigation bags 12. The stand 20 may be configured to hold 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more irrigation bags 12 (the number of bags may be selected based on needs for a particular procedure or other criteria). This multi-bag capacity allows for extended surgical procedures without interruption and enables the use of different irrigation solutions as needed during surgery. In some embodiments, the stand 20 may hold the plurality of bags in a pressure cell to control the flow rate from the irrigation bags. For example, a plurality of pressure cells 26 may be provided and each irrigation bag of the plurality of irrigation bags may be disposed in a dedicated pressure cell. The pressure cell(s) may be an inflatable pressure bag. The stand 20 may include individual mounting points 22 for each irrigation bag 12, with each mounting point configured to securely retain a standard medical irrigation bag while allowing for easy installation and removal. The mounting points 22 may include weight sensors 24 that continuously monitor the fluid level in each bag, providing real-time status information to the controller 40.

[0016] The stand 20 may have an actuator 28 for controlling a height of the stand. For example, the height actuator may be a motor, a pneumatic control, or other component, or combinations thereof. For example, the stand may be lowered for ease of bag replacement and raised to a service height. The height adjustment allows the system to be optimized for different surgical setups, user preferences, and gravitational flow requirements. The actuator 28 may be in electronic communication with a controller 40, such that the height adjustment may be automated. For example, the actuator 28 may be adjusted through user inputs or automatically based on flow requirements.

[0017] The system includes a fluidic circuit 30 configured to couple to each irrigation bag 12 of the plurality of irrigation bags. The fluidic circuit 30 is configured to provide a flow of irrigation from a selectable one of the plurality of irrigation bags to an output 36. The fluidic circuit 30 provides a pathway for irrigation fluid from a selected bag 12 to the surgical site. The fluidic circuit may include individual connectors 32 for each irrigation bag position, allowing each bag to be independently connected to the system. The fluidic circuit may include a manifold 34 to receive fluid from all connected bags and to direct flow from a selected bag to an output 36.

[0018] In some embodiments, valves 38 within the manifold 34 control which irrigation bag 12 supplies fluid at any given time. The valves may be electronically controlled by the controller 40, allowing for automated switching between bags based on system status and user preferences. The valves may be solenoid valves, pinch valves, or other suitable flow control devices, or combinations thereof.

[0019] In some embodiments, the flow of irrigation fluid is controlled using a flow actuator 26, such as, for example, one or more of a pump (e.g., a contactless pump), valve, restrictor, etc. The flow actuator 39 may regulate the rate of irrigation flow based on user inputs. The flow actuator 39 is responsive to signals from the controller 40 and can provide precise flow rate control across a wide range of surgical requirements.

[0020] The fluidic circuit may include one or more sensors for determining bag status (e.g., quantity of fluid remaining in each bag). The fluidic circuit may include one or more valves for selecting the bag(s) currently in use — i.e., the bags currently coupled to the output for supplying irrigation fluid. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more spikes (e.g., actuator-controlled spikes) for automatically piercing a port of each irrigation bag. The controllermay control the valves and spike(s) of the fluidic circuit so as to select and use the irrigation bags. In this way, each bag need only be pierced if it is required.

[0021] The system includes a controller 40 configured to provide the flow of irrigation at a flow rate based on a user flow input. For example, in embodiments having one or more pressure cells, the controller may be in electronic communication with the pressure cell(s) (each pressure cell) of the stand and configured to control the pressure of the pressure cell to automatically adjust the flow rate of irrigation. In another example, the controller may be in electronic communication with a pump and configured to control the pump. Some embodiments of the system include control of both pressure and flow rate. For example, the system may include pressure cell(s) in which the bags are placed and also include a flow actuator (pump, valve, etc.) to control the flow rate of the irrigation fluid.

[0022] The controller 40 manages all aspects of system operation, including bag selection, flow rate control, temperature regulation, and user interface functions. The controller 40 may have a memory and / or be connected to a memory for storing operational parameters and user preference.

[0023] The system may include a user input device for controlling the flow rate and / or the temperature. The user input device may be, for example, one or more of a handle, a joystick, a foot pedal, a dial, a slider, a touch screen, a microphone, etc. (including combinations of these and / or other devices). It should be recognized that a microphone may be used for voice control of the surgical irrigation system. User inputs may be provided through various input devices 60. These may include physical controls such as handles, joysticks, foot pedals, dials, and sliders. Digital interfaces such as touch screens provide additional control options and system status displays. Voice control capabilities may be implemented through a microphone and speech recognition software, allowing hands-free operation during sterile procedures.

[0024] The controller 40 may implement automated bag selection logic based on multiple criteria. These criteria may include fluid level monitoring through weight sensors 24, bag integrity monitoring, solution type identification, and user preferences. When a bag becomes empty or reaches a predetermined low level, the controller 40 may automatically switch to an alternative bag without interrupting irrigation flow.

[0025] In some embodiments, the system includes a heater and / or cooler 50 for heating and / or cooling the flow of irrigation. The controller may be further configured to provide the flow of irrigation at a temperature based on a user temperature input. For example, the controller may be in electronic communication with the heater / cooler to automatically adjust the temperature of the flow of irrigation. The system may include a heater 50 (or cooler, or both) positioned within the fluidic circuit 30 to warm (or cool) irrigation fluid to desired temperatures. The heater 50 may be a resistive heating element, heat exchanger, or other suitable warming device. A temperature sensor 54 may monitor the irrigation fluid temperature and provide feedback to the controller 40 for precise temperature control.

[0026] The heater and / or cooler allows irrigation fluid to be delivered at optimal temperatures for patient comfort and surgical effectiveness. Temperature control is particularly important for procedures requiring extended irrigation or when patient thermal management is critical.

[0027] The controller may be further configured to provide an indicator of bag status. For example, the stand may have an indicator light showing the status of each irrigation bag (e.g., red for empty, green for full, yellow for in use, etc.) The controller may be further configured to provide an alert if a predetermined threshold of bag use has been reached. For example, the threshold may be set for an alert once the system engages the last full bag of fluid. In another example, the threshold may be set for an alert once the system engages the second to last full bag. The alert may change as the end of the irrigation supply grows nearer (e.g., louder, more frequent, higher pitch, brighter light, etc.)

[0028] The system may use traditional fluid tubing as well as tube handling procedures that may be necessary for a sterilized environment.

[0029] In some embodiments, the surgeon may be able to control the operation of the system without additional assistance. For example, the surgeon may control the flow rate and / or the temperature of the fluid using a user interface. The controller managing the system acquires these inputs and manages flow rate, temperature, monitors the fluid level in the bags, and engages the next bag automatically when needed. In some embodiments, the large bag capacity of the stand can be extended to fit the entire need of the surgery or the reloading of new batches of fluid bags is made convenient by lowering and raising stand that holds the bags.

[0030] During operation, the user may select a desired flow rate and temperature setting through the input device(s) 60. The controller 40 manages the system to maintain these parameters while monitoring bag status and automatically switching between bags as needed. The adjustable height feature allows optimization of gravitational pressure for desired flow characteristics.

[0031] The system may provide continuous feedback to the user through an output interface, such as a display showing current flow rate, temperature, bag status, and other relevant parameters. Alarms and notification may alert users to conditions requiring attention, such as low bag levels or system malfunctions.

[0032] In another aspect, the present disclosure may be embodied as a method of providing surgical irrigation. The method includes mounting a plurality of irrigation bags on a stand. Each irrigation bag of the plurality of irrigation bags is coupled to a fluidic circuit. The fluidic circuit is operationally connected to a controller. A user flow input is received. The user flow input may include receiving an electronic signal input from one or more of a handle, a joystick, a foot pedal, a dial, a slider, a touch screen, or a microphone.

[0033] Automatically selecting one or more bag of the plurality of irrigation bags is selected based on a status of each irrigation bag. For example, selecting one of the plurality of irrigation bags may include monitoring a fluid level in each irrigation bag and selecting an irrigation bag having a fluid level above a predetermined threshold and based on a preprogrammed selection criteria (e.g., random, sequential, etc.) In some embodiments, selecting one of the plurality of irrigation bags includes determining a solution type for each irrigation bag and selecting an irrigation bag based on a desired solution type specified by a user.

[0034] A flow of irrigation is provided from the selected irrigation bag through the fluidic circuit to an output at a flow rate based on the user flow input.

[0035] In some embodiments, the method includes adjusting a height of the stand based on a desired gravitational pressure for the flow of irrigation. For example, adjusting the height of the stand may include activating an actuator coupled to the stand and moving the stand to a desired height using the actuator. The actuator may be one or more of a motor or a pneumatic actuator.

[0036] In some embodiments, the method further includes heating the flow of irrigation using a heater positioned in the fluidic circuit, receiving a user temperature input, and controlling the heater to provide irrigation at a temperature based on the user temperature input. The method may include monitoring a temperature of the irrigation flow using a temperature sensor and adjusting the heater based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[0037] A method of automatically managing surgical irrigation supply includes monitoring a status of each irrigation bag in a plurality of irrigation bags mounted on a stand; determining when a currently selected irrigation bag meets a switching criterion based on the monitored status; automatically selecting a different irrigation bag from the plurality of irrigation bags when the switching criterion is met; and continuing irrigation flow from the different irrigation bag without interruption. The switching criterion may include one or more of: a fluid level falling below a predetermined threshold; detection of a bag integrity failure; or a user request to change irrigation solution type. The method may further include providing a notification to a user when the switching criterion is met; and logging the bag switching event in a system memory.

[0038] A method of providing surgical irrigation may include with the mounting of multiple irrigation bags on the stand. This mounting process may involve securing each bag at an individual mounting point, which may include hooking mechanisms, clamp assemblies, or other retention devices designed to accommodate standard medical irrigation bags. The mounting points are positioned to allow gravitational flow while maintaining bag integrity and sterility.

[0039] Each irrigation bag is then coupled to a fluidic circuit through individual connectors. These connectors provide secure, sterile connections that prevent leakage and contamination. The coupling process may involve piercing seals on the irrigation bags using sterile spikes or connecting to pre-existing ports on specialized irrigation bags. Each connection may be isolated within a manifold to prevent cross-contamination between different irrigation solutions.

[0040] The method may include receiving user flow input through one or more various input devices. The user flow input may be provided through physical manipulation of handles, joysticks, foot pedals, dials, sliders, or the like. Digital interfaces such as touch screens allow for precise numerical input of desired flow rates. Voice input through a microphone enables hands-free operation, which may be particularly valuable during sterile surgical procedures where manual input devices may not be accessible.

[0041] The selection of irrigation bags may be performed automatically by a controller based on multiple status criteria. The controller may continuously monitor each bag through weight sensors to determine fluid levels. Additional sensors may monitor bag integrity, solution temperature, and connection status. The selection algorithm prioritizes bags with adequate fluid levels, proper connection status, and appropriate solution types for the current surgical phase.

[0042] The actual flow delivery may be managed through a flow actuator, which responds to the user flow input to provide irrigation at the specified rate. The flow actuator may employ variable orifices that change opening size based on electronic control signals, proportional valves that modulate flow based on applied voltage or current, pump systems that actively move fluid at controlled rates, or other actuators for such purposes. The controller continuously adjusts the flow control mechanism to maintain the desired flow rate despite variations in bag height, fluid viscosity, or downstream pressure.

[0043] Methods of automatically managing surgical irrigation supply represent a significant advancement over manual systems. Such methods may continuously monitor the status of each irrigation bag through multiple sensing mechanisms. Weight sensors provide realtime measurement of fluid levels by detecting changes in bag weight. Optical sensors may detect fluid levels directly through transparent portions of irrigation bags. Flow sensors within the fluidic circuit monitor actual fluid consumption rates.

[0044] The determination of switching criteria may involve sophisticated algorithms within the controller. The primary switching criterion is typically a fluid level threshold, such as when a bag reaches 10% of its original capacity. However, the system also monitors for bag integrity failures through pressure sensors that detect leaks or ruptures. Connection status sensors verify that bag connections remain secure and sterile.

[0045] The automatic selection process may occur seamlessly without interrupting irrigation flow. When switching criteria are met, the controller may identify the optimal replacement bag based on availability, solution type, and fluid level. The valve assemblies within the manifold may be sequenced to first open the pathway from the new bag while maintainingflow from the current bag, then closing the pathway from the depleted bag. This overlap ensures continuous flow throughout the switching process.

[0046] Methods of selecting irrigation bags based on fluid level monitoring may employ precision measurement systems to track real-time bag contents. Weight sensors positioned at each mounting point may continuously measure bag weight and calculate remaining fluid volume based on known bag and fluid densities. The system may account for bag material weight and mounting hardware to provide accurate fluid level readings.

[0047] The predetermined threshold for bag selection may be set as a percentage of original bag capacity, such as 15-20%, providing sufficient warning time for automatic switching while minimizing waste. Other thresholds may be used. The threshold may be adjusted based on surgical procedure requirements — for example, longer procedures may use higher thresholds to ensure adequate fluid availability.

[0048] The method of adjusting stand height to optimize gravitational pressure represents a significant improvement in irrigation control precision. The relationship between bag height and irrigation pressure follows basic hydrostatic principles, where pressure increases linearly with height difference between the bag and the irrigation site.

[0049] The controller may calculate optimal stand height based on desired irrigation pressure, measured flow rates, and known resistance characteristics of the fluidic circuit and surgical instruments. For procedures requiring high irrigation pressure, such as arthroscopic joint distension, the stand may be raised to maximum height. For delicate procedures requiring gentle irrigation, the stand height is reduced to minimize pressure.

[0050] The controller may be configured to provides real-time information to surgical teams about system status and switching events. For example, visual indicators on a touch screen may show current bag status, remaining fluid levels, and active solutions. Audible alarms may alert teams to low fluid conditions or system malfunctions. The controller may be configured to maintain records (logs) of all irrigation events, including bag usage, switching times, flow rates, temperatures, etc. This data may support quality assurance, inventory management, and clinical documentation requirements. Records may be stored locally and transmitted to hospital information systems for integration with patient records.

[0051] An initialization method may integrate all system functions to provide desired irrigation delivery throughout surgical procedures. The process may begin with initial setup based on procedure type, expected duration, and solution requirements. The controller may automatically configure stand height, target temperatures, and switching thresholds based on stored procedure profiles. During operation, the system may continuously monitor performance parameters and makes automatic adjustments to maintain desired conditions. For example, flow rates may be adjusted based on downstream pressure measurements and user feedback. Stand height may be modified to compensate for changing bag weights and maintain consistent flow. Temperature control may adapt to ambient conditions and flow rate changes.

[0052] In some embodiments, the controller may be voice controllable (e.g., have a voice control input). Voice control enables hands-free operation during sterile procedures. Speech recognition software may process voice commands and translate them into system control signals. The system may recognize commands such as "increase flow rate to 500 milliliters per minute" or "set temperature to 38 degrees Celsius."

[0053] Voice control may include confirmation to repeat commands back to a user before execution, preventing errors from misunderstood commands. Priority systems may ensure that voice commands do not conflict with physical control inputs, with predetermined hierarchies resolving conflicts.

[0054] Embodiments of a surgical irrigation system of the present disclosure provide several advantages over conventional systems. The automated bag switching capability may eliminate manual intervention during surgery, thereby maintaining sterility and workflow continuity. Precise flow and temperature control enhance surgical precision and patient safety. The multi-bag capacity extends operational time and allows for multiple irrigation solutions. The adjustable height feature optimizes system performance for various surgical configurations.

[0055] The variety of user input options accommodates different surgical preferences and allows for both hands-free and manual operation modes. The intelligent controller reduces cognitive load on surgical staff while maintaining full user control over irrigation parameters.

[0056] Although the present disclosure has been described with respect to one or more particular embodiments, it will be understood that other embodiments of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

We claim:

1. A surgical irrigation system, comprising: a stand configured to hold a plurality of irrigation bags; a fluidic circuit configured to couple to each irrigation bag of the plurality of irrigation bags and to provide a flow of irrigation from a selectable one of the plurality of irrigation bags to an output; and a controller, the controller configured to provide the flow of irrigation at a flow rate based on a user flow input.

2. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to select the irrigation bag based on the status of each irrigation bag.

3. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, wherein the mount is configured to hold at least four irrigation bags.

4. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, wherein the mount is configured to hold at least eight irrigation bags.

5. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, further comprising a user input device for providing a user flow input.

6. The surgical irrigation system of claim 5, wherein the user input includes one or more of a handle, a joystick, a foot pedal, a dial, a slider, a touch screen, and a microphone.

7. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, wherein a height of the stand is adjustable.

8. The surgical irrigation system of claim 7, wherein the stand comprises an actuator configured to change the height of the stand.

9. The surgical irrigation system of claim 7, wherein the actuator is a motor or a pneumatic actuator.

10. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, further comprising a heater for heating the flow of irrigation; and wherein the controller is further configured to provide irrigation at a temperature based on a user temperature input.

11. The surgical irrigation system of claim 10, further comprising a user input device for providing a user flow input and a user temperature input.

12. The surgical irrigation system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of pressure bags, and wherein each irrigation bag is placed in a corresponding pressure bag.

13. A method of providing surgical irrigation, comprising: mounting a plurality of irrigation bags on a stand; coupling each irrigation bag of the plurality of irrigation bags to a fluidic circuit; receiving a user flow input; selecting one of the plurality of irrigation bags based on a status of each irrigation bag; and providing a flow of irrigation from the selected irrigation bag through the fluidic circuit to an output at a flow rate based on the user flow input.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein selecting one of the plurality of irrigation bags comprises: monitoring a fluid level in each irrigation bag; and selecting an irrigation bag having a fluid level above a predetermined threshold.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein selecting one of the plurality of irrigation bags comprises: determining a solution type for each irrigation bag; and selecting an irrigation bag based on a desired solution type specified by a user.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein receiving a user flow input comprises receiving input from one or more of: a handle, a joystick, a foot pedal, a dial, a slider, a touch screen, or a microphone.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising adjusting a height of the stand based on a desired gravitational pressure for the flow of irrigation.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein adjusting the height of the stand comprises: activating an actuator coupled to the stand; and moving the stand to a desired height using the actuator.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the actuator comprises one of a motor or a pneumatic actuator.

20. The method of claim 13, further comprising: heating the flow of irrigation using a heater positioned in the fluidic circuit; receiving a user temperature input; and controlling the heater to provide irrigation at a temperature based on the user temperature input.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising: monitoring a temperature of the irrigation flow using a temperature sensor; and adjusting the heater based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

22. A method of automatically managing surgical irrigation supply, comprising: monitoring a status of each irrigation bag in a plurality of irrigation bags mounted on a stand; determining when a currently selected irrigation bag meets a switching criterion based on the monitored status; automatically selecting a different irrigation bag from the plurality of irrigation bags when the switching criterion is met; and continuing irrigation flow from the different irrigation bag without interruption.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the switching criterion comprises one or more of: a fluid level falling below a predetermined threshold; detection of a bag integrity failure; or a user request to change irrigation solution type.

24. The method of claim 22, further comprising: providing a notification to a user when the switching criterion is met; and logging the bag switching event in a system memory.

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