Balloon-Assisted Containment for Robotic Endoscopic Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic and robotic surgery devices lack the precision and control needed for strategic placement and deployment of balloons during colorectal surgery, leading to inadequate visualization and increased risk of complications such as bleeding and perforation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-working channel device with a cylindrical assembly and a longitudinally extending tube, equipped with a balloon and a stylet, allows for precise placement and deployment of the balloon within the alimentary canal, enabling controlled insufflation and improved surgical visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a balloon catheter or endoscope is used to inflate the balloon, then the balloon can be inflated inside the alimentary canal, but the precision and control of balloon placement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a delivery catheter for precise navigation, a balloon separate from the inflation mechanism, and a stylet for independent manipulation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, enabling precise balloon placement while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A stylet is introduced as an intermediary tool that extends through the delivery catheter to directly manipulate and position the balloon. This intermediary mechanism provides the skilled artisan with direct control over balloon placement, overcoming the limitations of using only the endoscope or catheter for positioning.
2Illumination intensity
If insufflation is performed during endoscopic colon surgery, then visualization of the alimentary canal is improved, but abdominal discomfort and bloating increase
Solution Approach 1:
The balloon is inflated locally at the specific surgical site within the alimentary canal rather than performing diffuse insufflation throughout the entire abdominal cavity. This localized approach provides targeted visualization improvement while minimizing the spread of insufflated gas, thereby reducing abdominal discomfort and bloating.
Solution Approach 2:
The device converts the potential harm of uncontrolled gas leakage (which causes bloating and discomfort) into a benefit by containing the insufflated gas within the balloon at the surgical site. The balloon acts as a containment structure that directs the beneficial visualization effect while preventing the harmful spread of gas.
3Illumination intensity
If the balloon is inflated to contain the operative field, then surgical visibility is improved, but the risk of perforation and bleeding increases without precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery catheter and stylet are used to pre-position the balloon at the exact desired location before inflation occurs. This preliminary positioning action ensures that when the balloon is inflated, it is already in the optimal position for containment, reducing the need for high inflation pressures that could cause perforation or bleeding.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows dynamic adjustment of balloon position and inflation pressure during the procedure. The stylet can be manipulated to reposition the balloon, and inflation can be adjusted in real-time, enabling the system to adapt to tissue conditions and minimize the risk of perforation while maintaining adequate visibility.
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 device enhances the precision of balloon placement, reducing the risk of complications and improving surgical outcomes by allowing for targeted insufflation and better visualization of the surgical site.
Implementation Method 1
insufflation (i.e., introduction of air) improves visualization of the interior of the alimentary canal
Implementation Method 2
A stylet is insertable into the longitudinally-extending tube and selectively urges the balloon to a desired position
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-working channel device with a cylindrical assembly having a distal end, a proximal end, an interior space, and an aperture. The multi-working channel device also has a longitudinally extending tube with a proximal end, a distal end that is coterminous with the distal end of the cylindrical assembly, and a balloon. The multi-working channel device also utilizes a stylet having a proximal end and a distal end that is connected to the balloon. The stylet can be adjusted between a home position and an active position. In the home position, the balloon is at least partially within the longitudinally extending tube. Alternatively, the active position deploys the balloon from the longitudinally extending tube. The stylet selectively urges the balloon to the active position, facilitating employment of the alimentary engagement device. In addition, the balloon is selectively inflated through the longitudinally extending tube.