Multi-functional ENT Tool with Rotatable Probe and Integrated Balloon Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
ENT procedures face challenges due to limited access and complexity of the region being operated on, with existing tools lacking flexibility and requiring multiple instruments, which restricts the physician's movement and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional ENT tool with a rotatable tubular probe, integrated balloon sinuplasty mechanism, guidewire adjustment system, and suction/irrigation channels, allowing for single-handed operation and enhanced flexibility during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate instruments are used for ENT procedures, then each specific function can be performed with a specialized tool, but the physician's freedom of movement is restricted and procedural efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate ENT instruments into a single integrated tool assembly. The handle assembly integrates a rotatable probe, guidewire adjustment mechanism, balloon sinuplasty mechanism, and suction/irrigation channels into one unified device that can perform multiple functions without requiring the physician to switch between separate instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated ENT tool is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple procedures including guidewire insertion, balloon inflation, suction, and irrigation through a single device. The rotatable probe can access different anatomical regions while the integrated mechanisms provide diverse functional capabilities in one instrument
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate instruments are used for ENT procedures, then each specific function can be performed with a specialized tool, but the number of instruments increases and procedural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate ENT instruments into a single integrated tool assembly. The handle assembly integrates a rotatable probe, guidewire adjustment mechanism, balloon sinuplasty mechanism, and suction/irrigation channels into one unified device that can perform multiple functions without requiring the physician to switch between separate instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where the guidewire, balloon mechanism, and suction channels are contained within the probe and handle assembly. The balloon sinuplasty mechanism is positioned within the distal section, and the guidewire passes through the probe lumen, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces the number of separate instruments needed
3Adaptability or versatility
If the probe is made rotatable to enhance flexibility, then access to different regions is improved, but the mechanical complexity of the connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed to be rotatable about its axis of symmetry, allowing dynamic adjustment of the probe orientation during the procedure. The joint connection between the handle and distal section provides rotational freedom while maintaining mechanical stability, enabling the physician to access different anatomical regions by rotating the probe as needed
Data Source
AI summary
An ENT tool has a tool chassis having a chassis channel and a tool chassis distal end. A tubular probe is dimensioned to be inserted into a human patient orifice, the probe is rotatable about a probe axis of symmetry, and the probe has a probe proximal end rotatingly connected to the tool chassis distal end. A balloon insertion mechanism is slidingly located within the chassis channel, and is configured to fixedly accept a balloon sinuplasty mechanism penetrating the tubular probe. A guidewire adjustment section is fixedly attached to the balloon insertion mechanism, and the section has a rotatable enclosure. A plurality of rollers are disposed within the enclosure and are configured so that on rotation of the enclosure the rollers grip and rotate a guidewire positioned between the rollers, and, absent rotation of the enclosure, release the guidewire and permit distal and proximal translation of the guidewire.