Anvil Buttress Loading Tool for Surgical Stapler Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling apparatus require complex and costly methods for attaching anvil buttresses during surgical procedures, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An anvil buttress loading system with a retention clip and loading tool that allows for simple, cost-effective attachment of anvil buttresses to the surgical stapling apparatus, enabling straightforward installation in the operating room.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual attachment of buttress materials is performed in the operating room, then procedural flexibility is maintained, but attachment complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate modular components: a retention clip that attaches to the anvil, a loading tool for handling the buttress material, and the buttress material itself. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall attachment process by breaking it into discrete, manageable steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention clip serves as an intermediary component between the anvil and the buttress material. It provides a standardized attachment interface that simplifies the coupling process, allowing the buttress material to be securely attached without complex direct fastening mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated attachment process is used, then attachment precision is improved, but cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip incorporates self-aligning features and snap-fit mechanisms that automatically position and secure the buttress material without requiring precision alignment tools or complex positioning systems. The design enables the operator to achieve precise attachment through simple manual insertion and engagement actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention clip and loading tool are designed as disposable, low-cost components that can be easily replaced. This eliminates the need for expensive, precision automated attachment systems while maintaining attachment quality, as each disposable unit is pre-configured for optimal performance.
3Reliability
If complex attachment procedures are implemented, then attachment reliability is improved, but operational time and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retention clip is pre-attached to the anvil before the surgical procedure begins, and the loading tool is pre-configured with the buttress material. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly steps during the procedure, reducing operational time while maintaining reliability through pre-validated attachment configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system incorporates dynamic elements such as spring-loaded retention mechanisms and flexible loading tool components that adapt to slight variations in positioning. This dynamic design maintains reliable attachment under varying surgical conditions without requiring precise, time-consuming alignment procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
An anvil buttress loading system includes an anvil assembly, an anvil buttress retention clip coupled to the anvil assembly, an anvil buttress loading tool, and an anvil buttress. The anvil buttress is retainable on each of the anvil buttress loading tool and the anvil assembly, and is transferrable from the anvil buttress loading tool to the anvil assembly.