Endoscope Optical Coupler With Clear Gel for Obstructed Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing minimally invasive surgical and diagnostic procedures are hindered by the obstruction of blood, opaque fluids, and particulate matter, leading to inferior imaging and prolonged procedure times.
Innovation Solution
An optical coupler comprising a clear, soft, flexible gel attached to the distal end of an endoscope or camera lens, which mechanically displaces opaque fluids and particulate matter to provide unobstructed visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional endoscopy is used in areas with opaque fluids or particulate matter, then the imaging capability is severely degraded or lost, but using alternative technologies (fluoroscopy, ultrasound, MRI) increases procedure complexity, cost, and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical coupler as an intermediary substance between the endoscope lens and the tissue surface. This coupler displaces opaque fluids and particulate matter from the optical path, allowing clear visualization without requiring complex alternative imaging technologies. The coupler acts as a mediator that restores optical clarity in previously obstructed environments.
2Measurement precision
If conventional endoscopy is used with opaque fluids present, then visualization is obstructed, but attempting to clear the field manually increases surgical procedure time
Solution Approach 1:
The optical coupler is applied preliminarily to the tissue surface before visualization is attempted. By pre-displacing opaque fluids and particulate matter with the coupler, the surgical field is cleared in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual clearing attempts during the procedure.
3Measurement precision
If alternative imaging technologies (fluoroscopy, ultrasound, MRI) are used to overcome opaque fluid obstruction, then visibility is restored, but radiation exposure, cost, and procedure duration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical coupler serves as a local intermediary that restores optical imaging capability without requiring system-wide transitions to alternative imaging modalities. By clearing the optical path at the tissue interface, it enables continued use of optical endoscopy, avoiding radiation exposure associated with fluoroscopy and the complexity/cost of ultrasound or MRI.
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
Facilitates clear visualization, reduces surgical procedure time, and minimizes tissue damage, enabling seamless access for medical instruments and quicker patient recovery.
Implementation Method 1
When pressed in contact with the surface of an area to be viewed, the coupler creates an offset that allows clear visualization by mechanically displacing the opaque liquid, semisolids, or particulate matter
Implementation Method 2
The visualization section includes an outer surface spaced apart from the proximal surface... capable of transmitting light to and from a surface area
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided for visualizing a surface area within a patient. The device comprises an elongate flexible shaft having a proximal end configured for coupling to an image display and a distal end, and a coupler device having an attachment portion removably coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft. The coupler device includes a visualization portion configured to allow transmission of an optical image of the surface area to the image display system. The coupler device further includes an imaging element, such as light emitting diode or the like.