Endoscope Handle Syringe Integration for Single-Handed BAL
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing endoscope designs make it difficult for a single operator to perform bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) procedures independently, as they require two persons to manage the syringe and suction, limiting flexibility in work distribution due to the operator's inability to easily inject and extract fluid with one hand while maintaining the endoscope's position.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope features a handle with a recess to securely grip a syringe and a suction port connectable to an external suction device, allowing the operator to control both injection and extraction with one hand, and a sample container attachment directly to the handle for easy monitoring and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the syringe is attached to the working channel of the endoscope via an intermediate tube, then the BAL procedure can be performed, but the operator cannot easily retract the piston with one hand while maintaining endoscope position
Solution Approach 1:
The syringe is extracted from the intermediate tube connection and directly attached to the connector at the endoscope handle. This removes the intermediate tube from the system, allowing the operator to grip and manipulate the syringe directly with one hand while maintaining endoscope position with the other hand.
Solution Approach 2:
A connector is introduced as a mediator between the working channel and the syringe attachment point at the handle. This connector provides a stable mounting point for the syringe, enabling easy one-handed operation while maintaining the integrity of the fluid pathway.
2Productivity
If two persons are used for the BAL procedure, then fluid injection and extraction can be managed, but the flexibility in work distribution is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope design enables the operator to perform both injection and extraction functions independently without requiring an assistant. The operator can self-manage the syringe operations while maintaining endoscope position, making the system self-sufficient for single-person operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope handle is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both the connector for syringe attachment and the suction port with valve for extraction. This allows a single operator to perform multiple functions (injection, extraction, positioning) that previously required two persons, increasing adaptability in work distribution.
3Productivity
If external suction is used with Lukens trap, then sample extraction is possible, but the assistant must replace and label the trap
Solution Approach 1:
The operator can independently activate the suction button on the handle and control the extraction process without assistant intervention. The integrated valve and suction port system allows the operator to manage the entire extraction and sampling process alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction port, valve, and working channel are merged into an integrated system at the handle. This combination allows the operator to control both the suction activation and the fluid flow through the working channel from a single location, eliminating the need for assistant intervention in trap management.
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
This design enables the operator to perform BAL procedures independently, improving work distribution and sample yield by allowing single-handed fluid management and direct observation of the sample, reducing the need for an assistant.
Implementation Method 1
the extraction may be performed using an external suction and a Lukens trap
Implementation Method 2
sterile water, e.g. a 0.9 % saline solution, is instilled into the lung
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 7~10
AI summary
An endoscope (1), the endoscope (1) comprising a proximal end and a distal end, a handle (2) at the proximal end and an insertion tube (3) extending from the proximal end towards the distal end. The insertion tube (3) comprises a internal working channel extending from the handle (2) to the distal end of the insertion tube (3). A connector at the handle (2) is adapted for the attachment of a syringe (10). A recess is adapted to accommodate a cylindrical body of the syringe (10) when said syringe is attached to the connector.