Sample Retrieval Device with Nested Sheath for EUS Biopsy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) sample retrieval are inefficient, posing risks of needle-stick injury and sample contamination, as they require multiple personnel and are time-consuming, with EUS needles being difficult to handle and prone to kinking.

Innovation Solution

A sample retrieval device that attaches to a biopsy needle, featuring a non-return valve and a transparent or translucent cannula for visualization, allowing single-user operation, reduced risk of contamination, and protection against needle kinking, with a mechanism to securely hold the sheath and prevent exposure of the needle tip.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple personnel are used for sample retrieval, then the risk of needle-stick injury and sample contamination is reduced, but the process becomes more time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverisk reductionVSAvoidretrieval time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables a single operator to perform sample retrieval independently through integrated controls. The operator can extend/retract the needle, attach/detach the syringe, and control sample expulsion all through the handle, eliminating the need for multiple personnel while maintaining safety through the self-contained design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If the needle is extended for sample retrieval, then the sample can be accessed, but the risk of needle-stick injury and kinking increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample accessVSAvoidneedle-stick injury risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The needle is nested within the sheath during storage and transport, and can be extended only when needed for sample retrieval. After use, the needle is retracted back into the sheath, creating a nested configuration that protects against needle-stick injuries while allowing access when required

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The needle extension and retraction mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of needle exposure. The needle can be extended to the required length for sample access and then dynamically retracted to a safe position, providing both accessibility and safety through controlled movement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If the needle is exposed for sample retrieval, then the sample can be expelled, but the risk of contamination and needle kinking increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample retrieval efficiencyVSAvoidcontamination risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sheath is pre-positioned around the needle and the attachment mechanism is pre-configured. Before sample retrieval, the operator simply activates the extension mechanism, and the sheath and attachment components are already in place to prevent contamination and kinking during the actual sample expulsion process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If the needle is made flexible for navigation, then it can navigate complex pathways, but it becomes more difficult to handle and prone to kinking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenavigation capabilityVSAvoidhandling difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sheath is made of flexible material that can accommodate the needle's navigation through complex pathways. The flexible sheath protects the needle while allowing it to bend and navigate, yet maintains enough structural integrity to prevent kinking and facilitate handling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10874379B2Sample retrieval device and method of use thereof

Publication Date: 2020.12.29 COOK MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC

AI summary

One aspect of the present invention generally relates to a sample retrieval device and to system including such a device in combination with biopsy needle. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of using the sample retrieval device in combination with the biopsy needle to retrieve a biopsy sample from a patient and to prepare the sample for examination.