Adjustable Suture Tab Model for Laparoscopic Skill Practice
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical training models fail to effectively simulate the challenges of laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures, particularly in suturing, due to the lack of realistic anatomical representation and the need for practicing skills in a two-dimensional viewing environment.
Innovation Solution
A suture training model that mimics the torso with a partially obscured body cavity, featuring adjustable and flexible suture tabs and bases with varying angles and orientations, allowing for customizable difficulty levels and realistic tissue simulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surgical training models are used, then basic suturing skills can be practiced, but realistic anatomical representation and two-dimensional viewing environment challenges are not simulated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a realistic copy of the human torso anatomy using a trained dog carcass as the base model. The skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle layers, and internal organs are preserved to accurately replicate human anatomical structures, providing authentic tactile and visual feedback for surgical training while maintaining manageable complexity through natural anatomical organization
Solution Approach 2:
The training model employs a nested structure where the torso cavity contains multiple layers of anatomical tissues (skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle), which in turn contain internal organs and target structures. This nested arrangement allows progressive training from external to internal structures while maintaining realistic spatial relationships without requiring separate complex components for each layer
2Productivity
If laparoscopic procedures are practiced on real patients, then actual surgical experience is gained, but patient safety and trainee error risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a trained animal carcass as a disposable training model that can be used repeatedly for practice sessions. The model provides realistic anatomical challenges and can withstand multiple training attempts without the ethical and safety constraints of using live patients, allowing trainees to accumulate surgical experience in a risk-free environment
Solution Approach 2:
The training model serves as an intermediary between theoretical knowledge and actual patient surgery. It provides a middle-ground training platform that closely mimics real surgical conditions including tissue texture, anatomical variability, and procedural challenges, enabling skill transfer to clinical practice without direct patient exposure
3Ease of operation
If minimally invasive surgery training is provided, then surgical skill development is enhanced, but the need for realistic tissue simulation and obscured visualization increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different tissue types with distinct physical properties to specific anatomical locations within the torso model. Different organs and tissue layers maintain their natural characteristics (firmness, elasticity, color, texture) to provide location-specific tactile feedback that enhances surgical skill development while using the natural anatomical structure to minimize overall model complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical training device is provided. The training device includes a model for practicing the passage of needle and suture. The model includes a base with a plurality of openings configured to receive a plurality of suture tabs. The suture tabs are made of elastomeric material. Some suture tabs includes pre-formed tab apertures for the passage of a suture. Other suture tabs include a penetrable area through which a suture needle may penetrate for passing a suture. The suture tabs are movable with respect to the base to orientate them at different angles with respect to the base. The base itself may include portions that are angled with respect to each other. The suture tabs are movable with respect to the base to pull, expose or open the tab apertures and surfaces. Some of the tab apertures are slits that open upon being pulled relative to the base requiring the user to practice holding the tab while passing the needle through the tab.