Endoscope Clamp Stabilization for Reduced Physician Fatigue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopy procedures require physicians to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, leading to fatigue and discomfort, and existing devices are either cumbersome or uncomfortable for patients, necessitating a need for improved endoscope control devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of an endoscope control device comprising a base, column, arm, and clamp system that stabilizes and positions the endoscope, allowing for adjustable clamping forces to restrict axial and rotational movement, and includes a surgical drape to maintain sterility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If physicians manually control and manipulate the endoscope during procedures, then they can perform multiple tasks simultaneously, but this leads to physician fatigue and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope control device enables the endoscope to stabilize and position itself automatically, reducing the need for continuous manual manipulation by the physician. The device performs self-adjustment functions that were previously requiring constant human intervention, thereby reducing fatigue while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical manipulation of the endoscope with an automated control system. The control device uses mechanical and electronic mechanisms to stabilize the endoscope and perform positioning tasks, substituting the physician's manual efforts with an automated system that reduces fatigue.
2Productivity
If additional assistants are hired to hold and operate the endoscope, then procedure efficiency improves, but hospital overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope control device enables the endoscope system to perform tasks that previously required assistant staff members. The device automatically holds, positions, and stabilizes the endoscope, eliminating the need for additional human resources and reducing hospital overhead while maintaining procedure efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary between the physician and the endoscope, performing the functions that would otherwise require assistant staff. This intermediary system handles the mechanical tasks of holding and positioning, allowing the physician to focus on medical procedures without additional staffing.
3Extent of automation
If existing endoscope control devices are used, then some tasks are automated, but they are either cumbersome or uncomfortable for patients
Solution Approach 1:
The control device applies localized stabilization only where needed at the distal end of the endoscope, while keeping the proximal end flexible and comfortable for the patient. The device provides targeted mechanical support without creating unnecessary bulk or discomfort in areas where the patient is present, maintaining local quality and patient comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are methods for reversibly constraining an endoscope. A method may include positioning an elongate medical device or endoscope in a holder of a clamp. A method may include actuating the holder such that one or more of a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the holder move to a clamped configuration to exert a force on the endoscope. A method may include adjusting a pad of the clamp from a first position to a second position where the pad is in contact with the endoscope in the second position.