Universal Tip Reload Surgical Stapler With Adjustable Dissector Tip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling devices lack versatility in accessing various surgical sites due to fixed dissector tip configurations, limiting their applicability in different procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical stapler with an adjustable dissector tip that can be bent or pivoted between configurations parallel and angled relative to the tool assembly's longitudinal axis, allowing for enhanced maneuverability and access to diverse surgical sites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the dissector tip is fixed in a single configuration, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot access various surgical sites effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The dissector tip is designed with a deformable distal beam portion that can be bent between a first configuration (substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis) and a second configuration (defining an acute angle with the longitudinal axis). This dynamic adjustability allows the tip to adapt to different surgical site geometries while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The dissector tip is divided into a proximal portion (including hinge portion) and a distal portion (deformable distal beam portion). The hinge portion provides a pivot point that allows the distal beam portion to be bent independently, enabling configuration changes without affecting the entire tip structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the dissector tip is made rigid for structural stability, then the tip maintains its shape, but it cannot be adjusted to different angles for various procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The distal beam portion is specifically designed with deformable properties to allow bending, while the proximal portion and hinge mechanism maintain structural stability. This local differentiation of mechanical properties enables angular adjustment where needed while preserving overall tip integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge portion acts as a dynamic joint that allows the distal beam portion to rotate between configurations. The deformable distal beam portion can be bent and retained in different angular positions, providing adaptability while maintaining shape stability in each configured state.
3Reliability
If the dissector tip uses a complex retention mechanism for each configuration, then the tip can be securely positioned, but the device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structure is segmented into discrete elements: a protrusion on one component and multiple recesses on the other. This segmentation allows for simple, modular retention mechanisms that can be easily manufactured and assembled, avoiding complex retention systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanism works by changing the positional parameters of the protrusion relative to the recesses. By moving the protrusion between different recesses, the tip can be retained in different angular configurations using a simple geometric parameter change rather than a complex mechanical system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable dissector tip facilitates easier navigation and access to surgical sites, improving the device's suitability for a range of procedures by accommodating different surgical needs.
Implementation Method 1
the deformable distal beam portion is bendable between the first and second configurations
Implementation Method 2
the proximal portion includes a hinge portion that is pivotably coupled to the distal portion of the anvil assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stapler includes a tool assembly that has a cartridge assembly, an anvil assembly, and a dissector tip. The dissector tip is moveable between a first configuration aligned with a longitudinal axis of the tool assembly and a second configuration defining an acute angle with the longitudinal axis of the tool assembly.