Deformable C-Shaped Needle for Endoscopic Suturing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic suturing devices lack efficiency and versatility in securing tissue, particularly in providing a reliable and easy-to-use method for making multiple suturing passes without oscillatory motion, and in allowing one-handed operation for tissue manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A deformable C-shaped needle with a drive assembly that enables 360° motion within a curved guide track, allowing the needle to be deformed from an open to a closed configuration for anchoring, and a suturing mechanism attachable to an endoscope for endoscopic procedures, facilitating one-handed operation and efficient tissue manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional needle and suture method is used for endoscopic suturing, then the basic suturing function is achieved, but the efficiency and versatility in securing tissue is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The needle is designed to be deformable between an open C-shaped configuration for insertion and a closed configuration for anchoring. This dynamic transformation allows the needle to adapt its shape during the suturing process, enabling both efficient insertion and secure tissue anchoring without requiring multiple different devices
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable needle serves multiple functions: it acts as an insertion tool in its open C-shaped form and transforms into an anchoring mechanism in its closed form. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require separate devices into a single tool, improving both efficiency and versatility in tissue securing
2Ease of operation
If oscillatory motion is used to drive the needle for suturing passes, then the needle can be moved through tissue, but the operation becomes less efficient and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The needle follows a curved, arcuate path through a guide track during rotation, enabling it to pass through tissue in a controlled arc rather than requiring complex oscillatory motion. This curved path simplifies the driving mechanism and allows for more efficient one-handed operation while maintaining suturing speed
Solution Approach 2:
The needle is rotated periodically through 360 degrees along a curved guide track to accomplish multiple suturing passes. This periodic rotational action simplifies the control mechanism compared to oscillatory motion, enabling easier one-handed operation while maintaining productivity through systematic repeated passes
3Reliability
If the needle remains in its open C-shaped configuration, then it is easy to insert and deploy, but it cannot provide a secure anchor for suturing material
Solution Approach 1:
The needle transforms from a simple open C-shape during insertion to a closed configuration for anchoring. This dynamic shape change allows the device to maintain simplicity during deployment while achieving reliable anchoring security when needed, without requiring permanently complex structures
Solution Approach 2:
The needle's geometric parameters change during operation - transitioning from an open configuration with a gap to a closed configuration where the ends meet. This parameter change enables the needle to provide secure anchoring for suturing material while keeping the device structurally simple during the insertion phase
4Reliability
If a deformable needle is used that transforms from open to closed configuration, then anchoring security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle's deformation mechanism is integrated into the needle itself, allowing it to transform from open to closed configuration through its own structural properties rather than requiring external complex mechanisms. This self-service approach achieves reliable anchoring while minimizing additional device complexity
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 and precise suturing with reduced operator effort, allowing for multiple suturing passes without oscillatory motion and providing a secure anchor for suturing material, enhancing the usability and effectiveness of endoscopic suturing procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The needle is deformable from a first configuration, such as an open C shape, to a second configuration, such a closed configuration
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A medical apparatus and method useful for suturing tissue is disclosed. The medical apparatus can include a curved needle and an apparatus suitable for providing endoscopic suturing. The apparatus can include a needle drive for driving the curved needle about a generally arcuate path. The curved needle can be deformed to form a closed needle structure.