Combined Needle Holder Scissors Dual-Function Jaw Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments require switching between grasping and cutting functions, leading to inefficiencies and risks due to the separation of these functions in different areas of the device, which can cause damage to surrounding tissues and complicate procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument with integrated grasping and cutting capabilities, where the cutting mechanism is activated within the same working area as the grasping function, allowing for seamless conversion between the two operations using intuitive motions and mechanisms like triggers or sliding mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the cutting mechanism is located proximal to the working jaws (like pliers), then the device structure is simplified, but the operator must open the jaws widely to access the cutting area, exposing surrounding tissues to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting mechanism is repositioned from a proximal location (along the handle axis) to a distal location at the tip of the working jaws, changing the spatial dimension of the cutting action. This allows the cutting edges to meet at the extreme end of the device, enabling cutting to occur precisely where the jaws converge, thereby improving safety and functionality without compromising structural simplicity
2Ease of operation
If the cutting mechanism is located at the end of the device, then cutting can occur at the working area, but the grippers must be positioned closer to the operator, reducing the effective working length
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting mechanism and the distal working jaw are merged into a single integrated structure at the tip of the device. The cutting edges are formed by the opposing surfaces of the working jaws themselves, eliminating the need for separate cutting components. This integration allows the full length of the device to be utilized for both grasping and cutting functions simultaneously, maximizing the effective working length while enabling precise cutting at the distal endpoint
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate cutting blade is used in a channel, then cutting function is added, but two separate steps are required: first grasp, then activate cutting blade
Solution Approach 1:
The working jaws are designed to serve dual functions: grasping/closing the needle or tissue, and cutting through contact of opposing cutting edges. The same mechanical motion that closes the jaws for grasping also brings the cutting edges together to sever the suture or tissue. This eliminates the need for a separate cutting activation step, allowing the operator to perform both grasping and cutting in a single continuous motion, thereby significantly improving procedural efficiency
4Adaptability or versatility
If the blade is exposed during grasping operations, then cutting can be performed, but the blade may accidentally contact and damage the grasping material
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting edges are designed as dynamic surfaces that only come into contact when the jaws are fully closed. During the opening and closing motion, the cutting edges remain separated and non-contacting. Only when the jaws converge to their closed position do the opposing cutting surfaces meet, at which point cutting can occur. This dynamic configuration ensures the blade is effectively protected during grasping operations while remaining functional when needed
Data Source
AI summary
The invention involves an instrument with a set of grasping jaws such as found on surgical needle drivers, hemostats, grasping forceps, and clamps. In addition to the grasping jaws for holding and grasping material, it includes a set of cutting shears or scissors that operate in the same main working jaws. It functions as a standard needle holder with grasping and locking functions with the use of two main actuating limbs. When desired, the instrument is easily converted by a simple action of the operator from a grasping device into a cutting device and then can be used in a familiar fashion, such as employed for scissors, to repeatedly cut sutures or material. Again, with a simple action by the operator, the instrument can be converted back to a grasping device. Both grasping and cutting functions take place in the same location on the device.