3D Imaging Cannula With Split Camera Disc for Hands-Free Arthroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current arthroscopic and laparoscopic surgical instruments lack 3D imaging capabilities and require surgeons to manually hold the camera, limiting their freedom of movement during procedures.
Innovation Solution
Cannula systems with integrated cameras that provide 3D imaging and allow for hands-free operation, featuring movable positioning members, flaps, or discs that align cameras with the insertion axis, and include processors for image synchronization and enhancement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current endoscopes are used, then the surgeon can perform surgical procedures, but the surgeon must manually hold the camera instrument, reducing freedom of movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera instrument with the surgical cannula system into an integrated unit. The camera is housed within the cannula structure, allowing it to be automatically positioned and operated without requiring separate manual handling. This merging of functions enables the surgeon to perform surgical operations with both hands while the camera system autonomously captures and transmits visual data from the surgical site.
2Loss of information
If current arthroscopic instruments are used, then surgical procedures can be performed, but 3D imaging capability is not provided, limiting surgical vision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple cameras within the cannula structure to provide 3D imaging capability. The cameras are positioned to capture spatial information from the surgical site, and their data is processed to generate three-dimensional visual representations. This merging of multiple imaging functions into a single integrated system enhances surgical vision without requiring separate complex imaging equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D imaging to 3D imaging by incorporating multiple cameras that capture depth and spatial information. The system processes images from multiple angles and combines them to create three-dimensional visual output, providing surgeons with enhanced depth perception and spatial awareness of the surgical field.
3Productivity
If cameras are integrated into the cannula system, then hands-free operation is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cannula system into modular segments, with the camera housing as a separateizable component. The cannula includes a proximal portion, a distal portion, and an intermediate section that can accommodate the camera assembly. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance while enabling hands-free operation during surgical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates movable positioning members within the cannula that can adjust the camera's position and orientation. These dynamic components allow the camera to be repositioned along the cannula's insertion axis or rotated to capture different viewing angles, providing operational flexibility without requiring the entire cannula system to be complex or rigid.
Data Source
AI summary
A cannula system is provided that enables hands-free operation of cameras by a surgeon and provides 3D images of the surgical site. An exemplary cannula system comprises a cannula having a proximal end, a distal end, a central lumen, and an insertion axis. A disc is mounted to the distal end of the cannula. The disc has two separable half portions, and each separable half portion defines at least one internal slot. A camera is housed in each of the separable half portions in the internal slots. Each camera is aligned with the insertion axis and live streams during insertion of the cannula system to provide under vision insertion. An obturator is configured to be at least partially disposed within the central lumen of the cannula. When the obturator is removed the two separable half portions of the disc can be slid apart to surgical position.