Endoscope Guide Rail for Large Medical Device Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic procedures face limitations due to the size constraints of accessory channels in flexible endoscopes, which restrict the use of larger medical devices and can result in uncontrolled movement of accessories, increased stiffness, and complexity in cleaning and sterilization, especially with non-circular cross-section endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
A guide system comprising a flexible rail and mating member that can be slidably attached to an endoscope, allowing for controlled introduction and manipulation of medical accessories, maintaining flexibility and maneuverability while avoiding the need for specialized endoscopes with non-circular cross-sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible endoscope with a small accessory channel is used, then the endoscope maintains flexibility and ease of insertion, but the size of medical devices that can be introduced is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The guide system is nested around the endoscope, with the flexible rail surrounding the endoscope shaft and the accessory being introduced through the endoscope's working channel while being guided by the external rail structure. This allows the accessory to be larger than the working channel would normally permit.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide system transitions the accessory introduction from a single-dimensional constraint (through the working channel only) to a two-dimensional approach by adding an external rail dimension. The accessory can be guided along the rail while passing through the working channel, effectively increasing the available space for larger devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If specialized endoscopes with large working channels or non-circular cross-sections are used, then larger medical devices can be introduced, but the endoscope becomes stiffer and more difficult to insert
Solution Approach 1:
The guide system is divided into separate components: a flexible rail, a mating member with engagement features, and a accessory guide. This segmentation allows the rail to be flexible and adaptable to the endoscope's curvature while still providing structural support for larger accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide system uses a flexible rail constructed from materials and structures that can bend and conform to the endoscope's shape and the patient's anatomy, eliminating the need for stiff, non-flexible guide structures while still supporting larger medical devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If endoscopes with non-circular cross-sections are used, then larger accessories can be guided externally, but cleaning and sterilization become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible rail is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different endoscope types and accessory sizes while maintaining a smooth, simple geometry that facilitates cleaning and sterilization. The rail's design prioritizes ease of maintenance while providing versatile guidance capabilities.
4Adaptability or versatility
If large diameter endoscopes are used, then larger accessories can be passed, but the endoscope becomes more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible rail acts as an intermediary structure that enables the use of larger accessories with standard endoscopes. Instead of requiring an expensive large-diameter endoscope, the rail mediates between the standard endoscope and the larger accessory, providing the necessary guidance and support.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device is provided for use with an endoscope. The medical device can include a tissue resection device comprising an RF cutting wire. The tissue resection device can be supported for proximal and distal movement relative to the endoscope.