Endoscopic RF Resection Shaft With Coordinated Cutting and Aspiration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrosurgical cutting devices face challenges in visually engaging and immobilizing target tissue, particularly in limited access procedures like laparoscopic surgeries, and struggle with coordinating cutter movement, RF power, and vacuum aspiration control during tissue resection.
Innovation Solution
The invention employs motor-driven cutters with integrated controllers to coordinate the movement of cutter electrodes, RF power, and vacuum aspiration, enhancing control and visibility through endoscopic visualization, and incorporates low-profile devices with movable electrodes and vacuum-assisted tissue extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual engagement of cutting window against target tissue is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to visualize and precisely engage target tissue is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cutting window with an imaging sensor array to create an integrated visualization system. The imaging sensors are embedded within or adjacent to the cutting window, allowing simultaneous visualization and cutting operations. This merging enables precise target tissue engagement while maintaining a compact device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an imaging sensor array as an intermediary between the cutter and the target tissue. These sensors provide real-time visual feedback about tissue engagement, allowing the operator to precisely position the cutting window against the target tissue without direct visual contact during the cutting process.
2Device complexity
If manual reciprocation of cutter assembly is used, then the device complexity remains low, but the coordination of cutter movement, RF power, and vacuum aspiration is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated coordination systems where the control system automatically synchronizes cutter movement, RF power delivery, and vacuum aspiration based on pre-programmed sequences or real-time sensor feedback. The system serves itself by automatically managing the coordination of multiple functions without requiring manual intervention for each parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where imaging sensors and other detectors provide real-time information about tissue engagement and cutting progress. This feedback is fed back to the control system, which automatically adjusts cutter movement, RF power, and vacuum aspiration to maintain optimal cutting conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tubular introducer device is used for remote tissue resection, then access to remote sites is achieved, but direct visualization of the introduction process is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tubular introducer device multi-functional by integrating imaging capabilities into the introducer itself. The introducer can serve both as a protective sheath for the cutter and as a visualization tool, allowing direct observation of the introduction process and target tissue through integrated imaging sensors or transparent sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary visualization actions by equipping the introducer with imaging sensors that can visualize the target tissue and passage way before the cutter is deployed. This preliminary visualization allows proper positioning and planning of the resection procedure before the actual cutting begins.
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
The solution provides improved control and coordination of tissue resection, ensuring precise cutting and coagulation, while maintaining clear visibility and efficient tissue removal, particularly suitable for transurethral resection of the prostate and other minimally invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
motor-driven cutters with integrated controllers to coordinate the movement of cutter electrodes, RF power
Implementation Method 2
vacuum-assisted tissue extraction
Implementation Method 3
electrode is disposed in the housing and configured to move relative to the window... RF power... ensuring precise cutting and coagulation
Data Source
AI summary
A tissue resecting or other medical device includes a handle coupled to an elongated shaft. A radiofrequency (RF) electrode is carried at a distal end of the elongated shaft, and the electrode is moveable across a window in a sleeve or other component of the shaft. The shaft has an interior channel connectable to a negative pressure source to remove debris from the channel. A motor is carried by the handle and operatively coupled to the electrode for moving the electrode relative to the window. An electronic image sensor and lens are disposed at a distal end of the shaft, and a plurality of conductors may extend through the shaft to the image sensor. The image sensor, lens and sensor conductors are disposed within a first tubular member, and an LED or other light source is also positioned at a distal end of the shaft with LED conductors or leads extending through a second tubular member of the shaft to the LED.