Endoscopic Knife Assembly for Trigger Finger Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical techniques for trigger finger release require large incisions and result in longer recovery times and greater post-operative pain due to the need for direct visualization and instrument access, while previous endoscopic methods lack direct visualization of the cutting tool during pulley separation.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile endoscopic knife assembly with a downward angled cutting surface and radiused upper end is used, allowing direct visualization and precise division of the A1 pulley through a single portal, minimizing tissue damage and incision size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional surgical techniques are used for trigger finger release, then direct visualization and instrument access are achieved, but incision size increases and recovery time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional open surgery (2D incision plane) to endoscopic surgery (3D visualization through small incision). The endoscope introduces a new dimensional aspect by providing internal visualization through the small incision, allowing surgeons to see inside the surgical field without making large incisions. This resolves the contradiction by adding visualization capability in a different dimensional approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope acts as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the small external incision and the internal surgical field. It transmits visual information from inside the body to the external observer, enabling direct visualization through a minimally invasive approach. This intermediary solves the contradiction by decoupling the size of the incision from the quality of visualization.
2Measurement precision
If conventional surgical techniques are used for trigger finger release, then direct visualization is achieved, but post-operative pain increases
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing endoscopic visualization, the patent enables surgeons to operate through a different dimensional approach (small incision with internal camera) rather than traditional open surgery. This dimensional shift reduces tissue disruption and associated pain while maintaining visualization quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope serves as an intermediary that provides visualization without requiring large incisions. This intermediary device reduces the direct trauma to tissues that would otherwise be necessary for open visualization, thereby reducing post-operative pain while maintaining surgical precision.
3Length of moving object
If previous endoscopic methods are used for trigger finger release, then incision size is reduced, but direct visualization of the cutting tool during pulley separation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the endoscope and cutting tool into a single integrated assembly. The cutting tool is positioned within the endoscope's field of view, allowing simultaneous visualization of the cutting process and direct observation of the cutting tool's position and action. This merging resolves the contradiction by combining visualization and cutting functions in one integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscopic assembly serves multiple functions: it provides visualization, houses the cutting tool, and enables direct observation of the cutting process all through a single small incision. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the endoscopic system capable of both minimizing incision size and providing direct visualization of the cutting tool simultaneously.
4Ease of manufacture
If a standard endoscopic blade is used, then cutting function is achieved, but surrounding tissues may be damaged due to lack of low profile
Solution Approach 1:
The blade is designed with non-uniform geometry: a sharp cutting edge for effective cutting, but a radiused upper end that tapers to a small profile. This local differentiation of blade properties allows it to perform cutting function while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. The radiused end specifically addresses the tissue protection need without compromising the cutting capability at the blade tip.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiused upper end of the blade introduces a curved, rounded geometry that prevents sharp edges from contacting surrounding tissues. This curvature reduces the risk of accidental tissue damage while the blade maintains its cutting function at the distal end. The spherical/curved transition resolves the contradiction between cutting effectiveness and tissue safety.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic surgical blade is disclosed. The blade is of a low-profile design, having a downward angled cutting surface that is radiused at its upper end. The blade is part of an endoscopic knife assembly which also contains a knife tube. The endoscopic knife assembly is for use in endoscopic surgery by insertion of the assembly through a slotted cannula. The knife tube is hollow and allows the insertion of an endoscope for viewing of the surgical procedure. A method for a performing an operative procedure on a target tissue in a subject using an endoscopic knife assembly having a low-profile, downward angled blade is also described.