Endoscopic Staple Applicator with Rotating Carrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic staple applicators are poorly suited for use with flexible endoscopes due to their large longitudinal footprint and tendency to obstruct the field of vision, and they often apply staples in a transverse plane that reduces the effectiveness of hooking tissue edges.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic staple applicator with a rigid hollow tubular sleeve and a polygonal rod that guides a 'horseshoe' shaped staple with arcuate branches and hooks, allowing for longitudinal movement and rotation to effectively hook and staple tissues without obstructing the endoscopic view, and a staple feeder that adapts to standard endoscopes for improved visibility and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a traditional staple magazine is used, then staples can be applied, but the longitudinal footprint becomes large making it unsuitable for flexible endoscopes
Solution Approach 1:
The staple magazine is nested within the control unit housing, with the staple carrier positioned inside the hollow tubular sleeve. This nested arrangement allows the magazine components to be compactly integrated within the existing endoscope diameter, reducing the longitudinal footprint while maintaining full staple application functionality.
2Ease of operation
If staples are applied in a transverse plane, then stapling can be performed, but the opening of the staple points is reduced making it difficult to catch tissue edges
Solution Approach 1:
The staple carrier is designed to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the hollow tubular sleeve, allowing dynamic adjustment of staple orientation. This rotation capability enables the staple points to be positioned optimally for catching tissue edges, transitioning from a fixed transverse plane to an adjustable orientation that maximizes tissue engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The staple carrier features an asymmetric geometry with a longitudinal slot and positioning elements that guide the staple in a specific orientation. This asymmetric design ensures that when the staple is advanced and deformed, the points are properly oriented to engage tissue edges effectively, rather than symmetrically in all directions.
3Area of stationary object
If a traditional staple applicator is used, then stapling function is provided, but it obstructs a large part of the endoscopic field of vision
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it acts as the endoscope housing, contains the hollow tubular sleeve, houses the staple magazine, and provides the actuation mechanism. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for separate staple applicator components that would obstruct the view, as all stapling functions are incorporated within the existing endoscope structure.
4Measurement precision
If a rigid staple delivery mechanism is used, then precise staple placement is achieved, but the system becomes complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The staple carrier automatically advances the staple through the longitudinal slot using a simple actuation mechanism. The geometry of the slot and positioning elements provides self-guidance, ensuring precise staple placement without requiring complex control systems or multiple actuation stages. The system serves itself through its geometric design rather than external control.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an endoscopic surgery system consisting of a plurality of staples and an endoscopic applicator comprising a staple cartridge for loading transversely arranged staples. Said staples have a central region and two side limbs and the applicator has a mobile body comprising a means for holding a staple to be applied, said staple being arranged in a transverse plane, and for ensuring the deformation of same by bending in relation to the axis of symmetry of said staple.