External Instrument Channel Endoscopic Suturing for Smaller Endoscopes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic suturing systems and devices are limited by the requirement for two instrument channels in larger endoscopes, restricting their use with smaller endoscopes that have a reduced profile and are more easily advanced through natural orifices.
Innovation Solution
The development of an endoscopic suturing system that includes a suturing device with a needle assembly movable through tissue by the suturing device, and first and second devices used in association with the suturing device, and first and second devices used in association with the suturing device, which can be used with the suturing device, and first and second devices used in association with the suturing device, and a needle assembly that is movable through tissue by the suturing device, and first and second devices used in association with the suturing device, including a distal cap assembly adapted to be mounted at the distal end of the endoscope, and a transmission assembly extending between the cap assembly and a proximal handle to apply a force to the transmission assembly and operate the cap assembly remotely from the distal cap assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a suturing system uses two instrument channels in larger endoscopes, then the suturing function can be performed, but the endoscope profile becomes larger and harder to advance through natural orifices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple instrument channels into a single channel by integrating the first and second devices within one channel. The cap assembly receives both devices through a single instrument channel, eliminating the need for two separate channels and thereby reducing the endoscope profile while maintaining full suturing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single instrument channel is designed to accommodate multiple devices (needle assembly, tissue grasping device, etc.) simultaneously. This multi-functional channel design allows the system to perform various suturing operations through one channel, replacing the need for specialized separate channels for each function.
2Ease of operation
If the endoscope profile is reduced for easier advancement through natural orifices, then ease of insertion is improved, but the ability to accommodate two instrument channels is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the requirements for multiple instrument channels into a single channel design. The cap assembly and its receiving structure are configured to hold multiple devices within one channel, allowing the endoscope to maintain a small profile for easy insertion while still accommodating all necessary suturing instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-channel spatial arrangement to a multi-device single-channel arrangement. By organizing devices vertically or radially within the single channel rather than requiring separate lateral channels, the system achieves the functionality of multiple channels without the dimensional space requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscopic suturing system includes an endoscope, a suturing device, a needle assembly movable through tissue by the suturing device, and first and second devices used in association with the suturing device. The cap assembly includes a rotatable needle arm supporting the needle assembly and actuatable by a proximal handle via a transmission assembly. First and second separate lumen extends outside the endoscope from the cap assembly to a proximal handle to advance instruments therethrough to engage the needle assembly and target the tissue. The cap assembly is retained at an end of the endoscope by a securing arm. The securing arm may be resilient or rotatable. Ancillary clips are also provided about the first and second lumen and transmission assembly to couple them to the endoscope.