Epigastric Retractor With Lateral Supports for Sub-Xiphoid Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive surgical procedures for coronary revascularization, such as ITA harvesting and CABG, face challenges with visualization and access due to subcutaneous fat in the epigastric region, necessitating larger working spaces and room for surgical tools, especially in obese patients.
Innovation Solution
A retractor member with a body portion and lateral support portions, configured to be removably secured to a surgical support instrument, compresses the epigastric region to create a larger access area around the sub-xiphoid incision, providing a stable guide for surgical instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If subcutaneous fat in the epigastric region is present, then minimally invasive surgical access is obstructed, but larger working spaces are needed to accommodate surgical tools and improve visualization
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor extracts and removes the obstructing subcutaneous fat tissue from the surgical field by compressing it laterally, clearing the path for surgical instruments and improving visualization of the subxiphoid region
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor acts as an intermediary device between the surgeon's instruments and the surgical site, creating a stable, fat-free working corridor that allows precise instrument manipulation and improved visualization
2Ease of operation
If conventional retraction methods are used, then access to subxiphoid region is limited, but surgical stability and instrument guidance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor creates an equipotential stable platform at the subxiphoid region by firmly anchoring to the chest wall, eliminating positional variability and providing a consistent reference frame for all surgical instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor replaces conventional manual retraction techniques with a structured mechanical system featuring lateral support portions and coupling mechanisms that provide stable, hands-free retraction and instrument guidance
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
Enhances surgical access and stability for minimally invasive procedures, allowing for better visualization and maneuverability of surgical tools, particularly in obese patients.
Implementation Method 1
compresses the epigastric region to create a larger access area around the sub-xiphoid incision
Data Source
AI summary
A retractor member includes a body portion extending along a longitudinal axis and being at least partially defined by a first lateral perimeter edge and a second lateral perimeter edge that each extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. The body portion additionally includes an upper surface and a lower surface that each extends between the first lateral perimeter edge and the second lateral perimeter edge. A first lateral support portion is coupled to the body portion at a first location at or adjacent to the first lateral perimeter edge, and a second lateral support portion is coupled to the body portion at a second location at or adjacent to the second lateral perimeter edge. A first coupling portion is disposed at a top end portion of the first lateral support portion and a second coupling portion is disposed at a top end portion of the second lateral support portion.