Biopsy Needle Rotation Assembly for Single-Handed Lesion Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biopsy devices struggle to efficiently collect tissue samples from all regions around a lesion using a single hand, particularly when both hands are occupied with the device and another instrument like an ultrasound transducer.
Innovation Solution
A biopsy device with a needle rotation mechanism that allows single-handed operation, featuring a needle hub and pinion shaft assembly that transfers rotational force to the needle assembly, enabling 360-degree rotation of the needle for comprehensive tissue sampling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the biopsy device is operated with a single hand, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to rotate the needle for comprehensive sampling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the needle rotation function with the biopsy sampling function into a single integrated device. The rotation mechanism is built into the needle assembly, allowing both functions to be performed with one hand by merging what would traditionally require separate operations into a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle assembly incorporates a dynamic rotation mechanism that allows the needle to rotate 360 degrees around its longitudinal axis during the biopsy procedure. This dynamic capability enables comprehensive sampling of tissue around the lesion while maintaining single-handed operation, transforming a static needle into a dynamically adjustable tool.
2Productivity
If both hands are occupied with the biopsy device and another instrument, then the ease of operation is improved for simultaneous tasks, but the ability to manually rotate the needle deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The biopsy device performs needle rotation automatically through its integrated rotation mechanism, eliminating the need for manual rotation by the operator's hand. The device rotates the needle itself during the biopsy procedure, allowing the operator to maintain control of both the biopsy device and another instrument simultaneously without sacrificing rotation capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If the needle is rotated to collect samples from all regions around the lesion, then the manufacturing precision of sampling coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation mechanism is segmented into discrete, modular components including a rotation actuator, gear system, and needle mounting interface. This segmentation allows the complex rotation function to be achieved through simple, standardized parts that can be manufactured independently and assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining precise sampling coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary rotation mechanism that acts as a mediator between the simple actuation input and the complex requirement for comprehensive 360-degree sampling. This intermediary system translates simple rotational input into precise needle orientation control, achieving high sampling precision without requiring proportionally complex control systems.
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
Enables comprehensive tissue sampling around a lesion by allowing single-handed rotation of the needle, enhancing sampling efficiency without requiring additional hand movements.
Implementation Method 1
A biopsy device with a needle rotation mechanism that allows single-handed operation, featuring a needle hub and pinion shaft assembly that transfers rotational force to the needle assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A biopsy device includes a probe, a needle, a cutter, and a manually actuated needle rotation assembly. The probe includes a probe housing. The needle extends from the probe. The cutter is disposed within the needle. The cutter defines a cutter lumen and at least partially defines a vent lumen between an exterior of the cutter and an interior of the needle. The needle rotation assembly includes a pinion shaft. A portion of the pinion shaft is exposed relative to the probe housing such that the pinion shaft is configured for actuation using a single hand while grasping the biopsy device with the single hand.