Combined Cricothyrotomy Device for Adverse-Condition Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical airway devices for cricothyrotomy are prone to failure in adverse environments due to debris and fluids, requiring multiple tools and increasing the risk of operator error and prolonged procedure times, which can lead to adverse patient outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A combined surgical cricothyrotomy device with a scalpel blade and tracheal hook at opposite poles, featuring ergonomic grips and minimal mechanical actuation, designed for ease of use and reliability in high-stress conditions, allowing for a one-for-one transition without increasing operator error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate surgical tools are used to perform cricothyrotomy steps, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and procedure time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate surgical tools (scalpel, tracheal hook, and airway tube) into a single integrated device. The scalpel blade and tracheal hook are positioned at opposite ends of a common handle, allowing both functions to be performed with one tool. This merging eliminates the need to switch between multiple separate instruments during the cricothyrotomy procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical device is designed to perform multiple functions within a single instrument. The handle portion serves as both the grip for the scalpel and the grip for the tracheal hook, while also providing structural support for the airway tube. This multi-functional design allows one device to replace several traditional separate tools.
2Extent of automation
If mechanical actuation mechanisms (springs, actuators, sliding mechanisms) are incorporated into surgical devices, then automated deployment is improved, but reliability in adverse environments deteriorates due to debris and fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex mechanical actuation mechanisms (springs, actuators, sliding mechanisms) from the surgical device. Instead of automated deployment, the device relies on simple manual manipulation by the operator. This extraction of complex mechanical systems eliminates the risk of jamming and gumming up that would occur in adverse environments with debris and fluids.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be manually operated without requiring external power sources or complex mechanical systems. The operator directly manipulates the scalpel and tracheal hook through simple hand movements, making the device self-sufficient and independent of mechanical actuation systems that could fail in adverse conditions.
3Productivity
If procedural steps are reduced for faster airway establishment, then speed of treatment is improved, but risk of operator error may increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the scalpel and tracheal hook into a single integrated device with a common handle, the procedure is simplified without reducing safety. The operator maintains control over both functions through one ergonomic grip, reducing the complexity of coordinating multiple separate tools while still performing all necessary steps efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
A cricothyrotomy device includes: a scalpel portion comprising a blade at a first end of the device; and a tracheal hook portion comprising a tracheal hook at a second end of the device opposite the first end of the device.