Flexible Clip Applier Stabilizer for Surgical Clip Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clip appliers provide insufficient stability to surgical clips, leading to movement or dislodgment during surgical procedures, particularly in endoscopic surgeries with limited space and visibility.
Innovation Solution
A flexible stabilizing member is integrated into the clip applier, engaging the proximal portion of the surgical clip and compressing between jaw members to secure the clip, featuring bends and channels to facilitate compression and prevent lateral movement, and optionally composed of spring steel or plastic for retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If two points of contact are used between jaw members and surgical clip, then the clip applier structure is simple, but the stability of the surgical clip is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing member is divided into multiple functional segments: a first portion with an aperture for receiving the proximal portion of the surgical clip, and a second portion with an enlarged end for engagement with the jaw member. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while maintaining overall structural efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing member acts as an intermediary component between the jaw members and the surgical clip. It provides additional contact points and stability without requiring direct complex interaction between the jaw members and the clip, thereby enhancing stability while keeping the overall structure relatively simple
2Stability of the object's composition
If a stabilizing member is added to engage the proximal portion of the surgical clip, then clip stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing member is constructed as a thin, flexible element that can be easily integrated into the clip applier. Its slender profile minimizes interference with jaw closure while providing the necessary stability through strategic engagement points
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing member includes a bend that allows it to dynamically adjust during jaw closure. The flexible portion can compress and deform as needed, enabling the stabilizing member to adapt to the closing motion without impeding jaw movement while maintaining clip stability
3Stability of the object's composition
If the stabilizing member is made rigid to prevent lateral movement, then lateral stability is improved, but jaw closure is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing member exhibits different rigidity parameters in different regions and under different conditions. The bent portion allows compression during jaw closure (temporary parameter change), while the aperture and engagement portions maintain rigidity to prevent lateral movement of the surgical clip
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing member transitions from a relatively rigid state during jaw opening to a compressed, flexible state during jaw closure. This dynamic behavior allows it to provide lateral stability when needed while accommodating jaw movement during application
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 stabilizing member enhances clip stability, allowing secure application and closure without impeding jaw movement, reducing the risk of clip displacement during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
be compressed from a first configuration when the first and second jaw members are in the open configuration to a second configuration when the first and second jaw members are in the closed configuration
Implementation Method 2
The stabilizing member may include a spring element
Data Source
AI summary
A clip applier is provided for applying a surgical clip to tissue. The clip applier may include a first jaw member that engages a first distal portion of the surgical clip, and a second jaw member that engages a second distal portion of the surgical clip. The first and second jaw members move relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration. A first longitudinal channel extends through a first inner portion of the first jaw member and separates the first jaw member into a pair of first extensions. A first stabilizing member has a first distal end portion secured to the first jaw member inside of the first longitudinal channel, and a first proximal end portion that engages a first proximal portion the surgical clip to reduce movement of the surgical clip.