Endoscopic Tool Perforated Shaft Suction Polyp Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic procedures for capturing tissue, such as polyps, during procedures like colonoscopy often result in lost polyps due to inefficiencies in snare polypectomy techniques, leading to difficulties in retrieval and examination.
Innovation Solution
A tool integrated with an endoscope that utilizes the existing suction capability by transferring suction force through an elongated shaft with perforations, allowing for secure capture and retrieval of tissue without the need for a separate suction source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If snare polypectomy technique is used to remove polyps, then the procedure is simple, but polyps can be lost within the body cavity leading to difficulty in locating and retrieving them
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the snare polypectomy function with suction capability into a single integrated tool. The elongated shaft includes both a lumen for receiving the snare and a separate suction lumen that can apply suction at the distal end to capture and secure polyps during removal, combining two functions that were previously separate into one unified device
Solution Approach 2:
The suction force acts as an intermediary mechanism to secure the polyp to the tool during removal. The suction applied through the suction lumen creates a holding force that prevents the polyp from being lost in the body cavity, serving as a mediator between the cutting action and the retrieval process
2Reliability
If a separate suction source is added to improve polyp capture, then reliability of capture improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope system is designed with multi-functionality, where the existing suction capability of the endoscope is utilized for dual purposes: both for general suction during the procedure and for securing polyps during removal. The tool integrates both snare reception and suction functions, allowing one device to perform multiple roles without requiring additional separate suction sources
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed to be self-sufficient by integrating the suction lumen directly into the elongated shaft. The suction capability is built into the tool itself, allowing it to secure and retrieve polyps independently without requiring external modifications or additional suction sources, making the system self-service capable
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
Enhances the reliability of capturing tissue during endoscopic procedures, reducing the likelihood of polyps being lost in the body cavity and facilitating their removal for further inspection.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more perforations providing fluid communication between the exterior of the elongated shaft and the interior channel such that suction applied to the working channel can be transferred to the interior channel of the tool
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for an endoscope comprises an elongated shaft including a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the elongated shaft comprises a tubular member with an interior channel extending from the distal end toward the proximal end and a one or more perforations in the tubular member that are spaced from the distal end, the one or more perforations providing fluid communication between an exterior of the elongated shaft and the interior channel.