Bipolar Uterus Manipulator Electrode for Stray Current Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hysterectomy devices face challenges in making a safe and precise circular incision between the uterus and vagina due to stray current risks from monopolar cutting electrodes, which can complicate the surgical process.
Innovation Solution
A bipolar electrode arrangement is formed on the uterus manipulator, with the cutting electrode connected to one terminal and the cervical cap or mandrel serving as the other electrode, ensuring current flows along the shortest path and minimizing stray currents by using insulating edges for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a monopolar cutting electrode is used, then the cutting function is achieved, but stray currents flow through the body to a neutral electrode causing safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cutting electrode and the counter electrode into a single integrated device. The cutting electrode is positioned at the distal end of the manipulator while the counter electrode is formed by the cervical cap or mandrel, creating a bipolar arrangement where current flows only through the target tissue between these two electrodes, eliminating stray currents throughout the body.
Solution Approach 2:
The bipolar electrode arrangement acts as an intermediary system that confines current flow to a specific localized path between the cutting electrode and the counter electrode. This mediator approach prevents current from traveling through neutral electrodes or other body tissues, thereby eliminating the harmful stray current effect while maintaining effective cutting capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If the cutting electrode is positioned close to the cervical cap for precise cutting, then cutting precision is improved, but short circuit risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the cervical cap or specific portions of the manipulator insulating in the regions that would contact the cutting electrode. This localized insulation property allows the electrodes to be positioned close together for precise cutting while preventing short circuits through strategic placement of insulating materials at critical contact points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes insulating coatings or thin film insulating layers on the manipulator shaft or cervical cap to prevent electrical contact between the cutting electrode and the counter electrode. These thin insulating barriers maintain the electrical isolation needed to prevent short circuits while allowing the mechanical proximity required for precise cutting guidance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the manipulator is inserted deep into the uterus for secure holding, then holding stability is improved, but guidance precision for incision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent solves the guidance problem by utilizing the tactile dimension - the distal edge of the cervical cap can be felt from the abdomen through the vaginal wall, providing a tactile reference point for the surgeon. This adds a sensory dimension for guidance that compensates for the loss of visual guidance when the manipulator is inserted deeply, allowing precise incision positioning while maintaining secure uterine holding.
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
This configuration allows for safer and more precise circular incisions by directing current flow directly between the electrodes, reducing the risk of stray currents and enhancing operator guidance during the procedure.
Implementation Method 1
an HF generator (10), which supplies high-frequency current at terminals (8, 9) for bipolar surgical cutting
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The device has a uterus manipulator (4) formed as an electrode (6), which is enclosed at a terminal (8) of high frequency-generators (10). A cutting electrode (12) is separately moved from the uterus manipulator and enclosed at another terminal of the high frequency-generators. The uterus manipulator includes a centrally positioned mandrel (5) and a cervical cap (6). The electrode bears an insulating ring that is formed at an edge of the cervical cap. The cutting electrode is provided at an end of a shaft (13).