Endoscopic Suturing Scope With Integrated Imaging and Needle Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic suturing devices lack integrated visualization and navigation capabilities, leading to inefficiencies in targeting, acquiring, and securing tissue, and there is a need for single-use scopes to prevent infection.
Innovation Solution
A suturing device with an elongate member, suture arm, and integrated imaging devices, a needle passer, and a needle lock, which allows for precise suturing and secure needle retention, combined with a handle for ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing endoscopic suturing devices are used, then suturing function is provided, but visualization and navigation capabilities are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging devices (first imaging device on elongate member, second imaging device on suture arm, third imaging device on suture arm) with the suturing device to provide comprehensive visualization capabilities. This merging of imaging and suturing functions enables precise needle placement and tissue targeting while maintaining an integrated device structure that manages complexity through functional integration.
2Manufacturing precision
If needle placement precision is improved, then suturing accuracy is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple imaging devices that provide real-time visual feedback during needle placement. The first imaging device on the elongate member, second imaging device on the suture arm, and third imaging device work together to enable the operator to precisely track needle position and adjust placement accordingly, achieving high manufacturing precision through optical feedback rather than complex mechanical positioning systems.
3Reliability
If single-use scopes are implemented, then infection prevention is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a single-use suturing device that is discarded after one procedure. This disposable approach eliminates infection risks associated with reprocessing and sterilization, ensuring patient safety. The device includes all necessary components (elongate member, suture arm, needle passer, imaging devices) integrated into a single-use unit that provides reliable infection prevention despite the increased per-procedure cost.
4Ease of operation
If integrated imaging devices are added, then navigation capability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple imaging devices with different functions into a single suturing system. The first imaging device provides visualization from the elongate member perspective, the second imaging device on the suture arm provides additional viewing angles, and the third imaging device offers complementary navigation information. This multi-functional integration enhances navigation capability while managing device complexity through unified system design where each component serves multiple purposes in the overall suturing process.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to devices and methods for treating a tissue defect, for example, by suturing. In some embodiments, a suturing device may include an elongate member having a working channel, a suture channel, and a suture arm extending from the elongate member. The suturing device may further include a needle passer located within the working channel, the needle passer operable to deliver a needle between the elongate member and a distal end of the suture arm for suturing a target tissue, and a suture extending through the suture channel, wherein the suture is coupled to the needle. The suturing device may further include a plurality of imaging devices, wherein a first imaging device is positioned along a distal face of the elongate member, and wherein a second imaging device is positioned along the suture arm.