Compression Staple Instrument with Cam-Driven Jaw Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments lack the capability to effectively hold and spread compression staples for insertion into bone segments, and there is a need for an instrument that can lift or remove staples for repositioning, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining bone segment compression for improved healing.
Innovation Solution
A staple instrument with a handle, shaft, and jaws that can load, spread, and insert compression staples into bone segments, featuring a cam mechanism for staple retention and a spring-biased shaft for axial translation, providing audible and tactile feedback during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing surgical instruments are used for staple insertion, then the procedure can be performed, but the instruments lack the capability to effectively hold and spread compression staples for insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is designed with multi-functionality to perform staple loading, spreading, insertion, lifting, and removal operations. The jaws can be configured to grip staple legs for spreading and insertion, and the same instrument can later grip the staple for removal, making a single device capable of handling the entire surgical workflow for compression staples.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument incorporates movable jaws that can dynamically adjust their configuration between different operational modes. The jaws can open to allow staple insertion and close to grip and spread staple legs, providing adaptability throughout the surgical procedure without requiring multiple specialized tools.
2Ease of operation
If staples are inserted without the ability to remove and reposition, then insertion can be performed, but repositioning for optimized compression cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is designed to be self-sufficient for both insertion and removal operations. The same device that inserts the staple can also remove and reposition it, eliminating the need for separate tools and streamlining the surgical workflow. This self-service capability allows for quick removal and repositioning without adding significant time overhead.
3Reliability
If compression staples are not properly compressed, then insertion is simplified, but bone segment compression is insufficient leading to longer healing time
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning and pre-spreading the staple legs before insertion into the bone segments. The jaws can be configured to hold the staple in a pre-splayed state, ensuring proper orientation and compression force are applied during insertion, which facilitates reliable bone segment compression without requiring complex post-insertion adjustment mechanisms.
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
Enables efficient insertion and removal of staples, ensuring proper bone segment compression for enhanced healing by allowing precise placement and repositioning of staples, thereby reducing healing time and promoting bone growth.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased shaft for axial translation
Implementation Method 2
a cam mechanism for staple retention
Data Source
AI summary
A staple instrument includes a staple holder comprising a pair of jaws, a drive shaft, a rotational handle, and a coupling to convert rotational motion of the handle into axial advancement of the shaft. A distal end of the shaft cooperates with the staple holder to cause three-point bending of a staple bridge to thereby open the legs of the staple.