Self-Stabilizing Ear Canal Probe for Hands-Free Endoscopic Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ear surgery techniques face challenges due to the narrow field of view provided by microscopic visualization, which necessitates invasive procedures like mastoidectomy, leading to increased operating times, complications, and prolonged recovery for patients.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free surgical instrument that self-stabilizes within a body orifice, such as an ear canal, and is configured to create an adjustable opening for medical instruments like an endoscope, allowing both hands of the surgeon to remain free while providing superior visualization and access for bi-manual techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional microscopic visualization is used for ear surgery, then the surgical procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the field of view is narrow and visualization of disease in difficult-to-access areas is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical microscope with an endoscopic system that uses optical fibers and electronic imaging. The endoscope incorporates a camera and light source to transmit images to a monitor, providing a broad field of view and excellent visualization of the middle ear and ear canal structures without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If endoscopic visualization is used, then the field of view is superior and visualization is improved, but the device requires complex stabilization mechanisms to remain hands-free during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscopic device is designed with self-stabilizing capabilities through a head-mounted structure that automatically positions and stabilizes the scope during surgery. The system includes active compensation mechanisms that adjust for head movements and maintain optimal positioning without requiring manual intervention or complex external stabilization equipment.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If mastoidectomy is performed to expose the middle ear and attic area, then access to difficult-to-access areas is improved, but operating time increases and complications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs endoscopic visualization and illumination systems that allow direct viewing and access to the middle ear and attic areas through the ear canal without requiring mastoidectomy. The endoscope provides sufficient lighting and imaging to visualize and treat these areas minimally invasively, eliminating the need for bone removal and associated surgical time.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If single-handed endoscope assisted technique is used, then the field of view is improved, but the technique requires significant dexterity and one hand is limited in performing precision surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscopic system is integrated with a head-mounted or hands-free positioning mechanism that automatically stabilizes the scope and provides optimal viewing angles. This eliminates the need for the surgeon to manually hold and position the endoscope, freeing both hands for precision surgical manipulation while maintaining excellent visualization through the endoscopic field of view.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a medical device, kit, system, and method that may be used for viewing the ear during surgery on a subject. The invention may allow a surgeon to view the surgical site with a camera mounted on a probe and maintain patency of the ear canal, while keeping both hands free for surgical techniques.