Integrated Electrosurgical Imaging for Single-Incision Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Obtaining adequate views of the internal operative site during laparoscopic surgery remains a limitation, often requiring separate incisions for the laparoscope and electrosurgical device, relying on tactile feedback due to limited visualization.
Innovation Solution
An electrosurgical device integrated with a flexible fiber-optic cable and digital image sensor system provides real-time, wide-angle panoramic visualization of the surgical site through a single incision, using homography matrices to combine source images into a composite view, and optionally incorporating smoke evacuation and illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a separate laparoscope is inserted through a separate incision to provide visualization, then the surgeon can obtain adequate views of the operative site, but the surgical procedure requires multiple incisions and increased device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrosurgical device and laparoscope into a single integrated instrument. The electrosurgical tip and optical imaging components are merged within the same shaft, allowing both tissue treatment and visualization functions to be performed through a single incision. This eliminates the need for separate incisions for the laparoscope while maintaining adequate operative site visualization.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions through a single instrument: electrosurgical cutting/coagulation via the electrosurgical tip, optical visualization via the imaging sensor, and illumination via integrated lights. This multi-functional design allows the single device to replace what would traditionally require separate electrosurgical and laparoscopic instruments.
2Loss of information
If the electrosurgical device is removed to insert the laparoscope, then adequate visualization can be obtained, but the surgeon loses tactile feedback from the surgical tool
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrosurgical functionality and optical imaging capability into a single integrated device. The electrosurgical tip remains continuously in contact with tissue throughout the procedure, providing constant tactile feedback to the surgeon through the handle, while the integrated optical system provides simultaneous visualization of the operative site without requiring device removal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple incisions are made for separate electrosurgical device and laparoscope, then both functions can be performed, but the surgical procedure becomes more invasive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates electrosurgical cutting/coagulation capabilities and optical visualization capabilities into a single device that can be inserted through one incision. This eliminates the need for separate incisions for the electrosurgical device and laparoscope, thereby reducing the invasiveness of the surgical procedure while maintaining the ability to perform both electrosurgery and visualization.
4Loss of information
If fiber-optic cables are used for illumination and imaging, then real-time visualization is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex and moisture-resistant shielding is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the optical components (imaging sensor, fiber-optic cables for illumination, lenses) within the electrosurgical device shaft. The fiber-optic illumination cables are routed through the shaft alongside the electrosurgical conductor, and the imaging sensor is positioned at the distal end within the same housing. This nested arrangement integrates the optical system within the existing electrosurgical device structure rather than adding external components.
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 clear visualization of the surgical site during electrosurgery without a separate laparoscope, allowing single-incision procedures with enhanced clarity and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging system including a flexible fiber-optic cable running an length of the electrosurgical device
Implementation Method 2
The operating principle is based on the formation of a thin layer of plasma or other heat source in proximity to the tip of the electrosurgical device
Implementation Method 3
Typically some sort of conductive liquid medium (e.g., saline solution or bodily fluids surrounding the tip of the electrosurgical device) is vaporized to produce an ionized gas creating a thin layer of plasma
Data Source
AI summary
An electrosurgical device vision system, comprising at least one of one or more fiber-optic cables and/or digital image sensor positioned to capture a corresponding one or more views of the surgical site in proximity to a distal tip portion of an electrosurgical device, and a processor configured to utilize multiple images captured by the vision system to construct a composite image with at least one of an improved resolution, clarity, dynamic range, and/or size.