Endoscopic Retraction Device with Arcuate Channel Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
The slow acceptance of Endoscopic Intramural Surgery (EIS) among gastrointestinal endoscopists is due to the lack of proper devices to facilitate the process, despite its advantages over traditional surgeries.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic retraction assist device with a body featuring a device channel that transitions from a circular to an arcuate section, allowing for flexible and resilient passage through gastrointestinal tissues, combined with a clip to hold the endoscope and a retraction device, enabling dynamic tissue retraction and dissection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional rigid endoscope is used, then structural stability is maintained, but tissue retraction capability and maneuverability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope incorporates a flexible shaft with arcuate channels that allow dynamic bending and shaping of the distal end, enabling the tip to adapt its configuration for tissue retraction while maintaining overall structural integrity through the flexible yet resilient material construction
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope is divided into distinct functional segments: a rigid proximal portion for stability and control, a flexible intermediate shaft for maneuverability, and a specialized distal tip with arcuate channels for tissue retraction, allowing each segment to optimize its specific function
2Ease of operation
If a single circular channel is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but retraction device maneuverability and tissue engagement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The channel transitions from a circular cross-section to an arcuate cross-section, introducing curvature that enables the retraction device to engage and manipulate tissue more effectively while the flexible material allows the arcuate shape to be achieved without complex manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The channel geometry transitions from two-dimensional circular symmetry to three-dimensional arcuate asymmetry, providing the retraction device with enhanced maneuverability in multiple directions while the flexible shaft allows this complex geometry to be achieved through material resilience rather than precision manufacturing
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 minimally invasive procedures by allowing for non-traumatic passage and dynamic tissue retraction, enhancing the speed and efficacy of EIS procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the body is formed of a flexible and resilient material
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic retraction assist device includes a body comprising opposite proximal and distal end portions and a central portion between the proximal and distal end portions, and a device channel defined in the body. At the central portion of the body, the device channel transitions from a circular portion having a circular cross section or perimeter to an arcuate portion having an elongated arcuate cross section or perimeter.