Threaded Cannula Anchor for Laparoscopic Insufflation Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cannulas used in laparoscopic surgery lack an effective mechanism to securely anchor themselves to the body wall, leading to potential slippage and loss of insufflation pressure during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A cannula anchor system featuring internally threaded cannulas and adjustable cannula anchors that can be secured to the body tissue using sutures, allowing for stable positioning and adjustable height to prevent slippage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cannula is inserted through the body wall during laparoscopic surgery, then access to the abdominal cavity is achieved, but the cannula may slip or move relative to the abdominal wall causing loss of insufflation pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula anchor is pre-formed with barbs or engagement features that activate upon insertion. The anchor is prepared in advance and deploys automatically when the cannula is pushed through the body wall, engaging the tissue before the cannula is fully inserted. This preliminary preparation ensures immediate stabilization without requiring additional steps during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cannula system is divided into separate components: the cannula body and the anchor mechanism. The anchor can be a separate element that attaches to the cannula or a distinct module that deploys independently. This segmentation allows the anchor to be optimized for tissue engagement while the cannula maintains its sealing and access functions, resolving the contradiction between stability and simplicity.
2Reliability
If a cannula anchor system with threading and sutures is used, then cannula slippage is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor mechanism is designed to be self-anchoring through features such as barbs, hooks, or expansion elements that engage the tissue automatically upon insertion or deployment. The structure itself provides the anchoring function without requiring external components like separate sutures or complex fastening mechanisms. The cannula or anchor self-secures through its own structural features, eliminating the need for additional anchoring elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using external sutures to pull the cannula into position, the anchor features are designed to push or engage the tissue in the opposite direction, creating mechanical interlocking. The barbs or hooks point toward the abdominal cavity, preventing retrograde movement, while the expansion elements push against the tissue to secure the cannula in place, inverting the traditional suture-based approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cannula anchor is made adjustable in position, then optimal positioning is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable anchor system includes pre-positioned engagement features at multiple locations along the cannula or anchor body. These pre-formed engagement points allow the surgeon to select and activate the appropriate anchoring position based on the specific anatomical requirements. The adjustment capability is prepared in advance through the design of multiple engagement sites rather than requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as movable engagement features, adjustable barbs, or expandable components that can be activated or repositioned during the procedure. The anchor transitions from a static to a dynamic state, allowing position adjustment while maintaining secure engagement. This dynamic capability enables adaptability without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable system.
Data Source
AI summary
Cannula anchor assemblies are disclosed which consist of a threaded cannula and a cannula anchor. The cannula anchor system allows for secure anchoring into the body wall, and proper cannula height adjustment prior to and during surgery. Sutures through the body wall may be secured to the cannula anchor either directly through the cannula anchor, or around suture posts attached therein. The cannula anchor also prevents excessive plunge of a trocar into the patient. The cannula anchor is generally configured with internal threads that mate with a threaded cannula.