Automatic Needle Transfer in One-Handed Suturing Jaws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suturing instruments for abdominal closure are difficult to use, lack precision, pose a risk of prick injuries, and are mechanically complex, leading to increased complications and operating room time.
Innovation Solution
A one-handed automatic suturing device with a built-in mechanism for automatic needle transfer between jaw elements, utilizing an alternating mechanism and a holding mechanism to securely transfer a double-ended needle, allowing for precise and efficient suturing without additional switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing suturing instruments are used, then surgical procedures can be performed, but the device complexity is high and ease of operation is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the needle transfer function from a separate control mechanism and integrates it into the jaw closing action itself. The needle is automatically transferred from the first jaw to the second jaw simply by closing the jaws, eliminating the need for additional switches or complex control systems. This reduces device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the needle transfer mechanism with the jaw closing mechanism. The same mechanical action that closes the jaws also triggers the needle transfer, combining two functions into one integrated system. This reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing suturing instruments are used, then wound closure can be performed, but precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual needle handling with an automated mechanical transfer system. The needle is automatically transferred from the first jaw to the second jaw through a synchronized mechanical mechanism, ensuring precise and consistent needle placement without relying on surgeon dexterity or manual manipulation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If existing suturing instruments are used, then suturing can be performed, but the risk of prick injuries is high
Solution Approach 1:
The needle transfer process is designed to be self-contained within the device. The needle remains enclosed within the jaw mechanism throughout the transfer, and the alternating retention and release mechanism ensures the needle is securely held and automatically transferred without requiring the surgeon to manually handle the sharp needle, thereby eliminating prick injury risks.
4Productivity
If existing suturing instruments are used, then wound closure can be performed, but operating room time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous suturing operation where the needle is automatically transferred and ready for the next stitch without interruption. The alternating retention mechanism ensures that while one jaw releases the needle, the other jaw is already positioned to receive it, maintaining continuous useful action and eliminating downtime between stitches.
Data Source
AI summary
A one-handed automatic suturing device with a needle-transfer of a double-ended needle includes a first and a second jaw element that are movable in relation to each other between an open position and a closed position. The first jaw element has an alternating mechanism for alternating, each time the jaw elements are moved to the closed position, between: a retaining position, wherein the alternating mechanism is configured to retain a first end of the double-ended needle with a first retention strength; and a releasing position, wherein the alternating mechanism is configured for releasing said needle. The second jaw element has a holding mechanism for retaining and releasing a second end of the double-ended needle; wherein the holding mechanism is configured to retain the second end of the double-ended needle with a second retention strength that is lower than the first retention strength.