Flexible Endoscope Shaft With Nested Components For Trans-Nasal Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trans-nasal endoscopy procedures are challenging due to the discomfort caused by large endoscope diameters, which can lead to physical and mental distress for patients, especially in pediatric and small adult populations.
Innovation Solution
A trans-nasal endoscope with a minimized outer diameter of less than 4.5 mm, preferably 3.5 mm, and a maximized working channel diameter of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably 2.0 mm, is developed. This design incorporates a flexible and steerable distal region with enhanced four-way steering capabilities and visualization functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the outer diameter of the endoscope is reduced to minimize patient discomfort, then patient comfort and acceptance improve, but the working channel diameter for instrument access decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope employs a nested configuration where the illumination fiber bundle and camera are positioned within the distal tip, and the working channel is integrated within the shaft structure. This nesting allows multiple functional components to coexist in a compact arrangement, achieving a small outer diameter while preserving adequate working channel space for instrument passage.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope utilizes a multi-dimensional layout where the working channel, illumination path, and imaging path are arranged in different spatial dimensions and orientations. This dimensional separation allows each function to operate independently without interfering with others, enabling small overall diameter while maintaining functional adequacy.
2Ease of operation
If the endoscope diameter is minimized for trans-nasal insertion, then patient anxiety and physical distress reduce, but the capability to introduce tools through the working channel is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope shaft features varying flexibility characteristics along its length, with the distal region being more flexible to navigate nasal passages while the proximal region maintains sufficient rigidity to support and transmit the force required for instrument introduction through the working channel. This local differentiation of mechanical properties resolves the contradiction between small diameter and tool access capability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the distal region is made more flexible to reduce discomfort during insertion, then patient comfort improves, but steering control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope shaft is segmented into distinct regions with different flexibility characteristics. The distal region is designed with higher flexibility to conform to anatomical passages and reduce insertion discomfort, while the proximal region maintains greater rigidity for precise steering control. This segmentation allows each region to optimize its mechanical properties for its specific functional requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for an endoscope for use in a surgical procedure, e.g., a pediatric trans-nasal endoscopy procedure. The endoscope may include a handle for gripping by a user, and a shaft extending from the handle. The shaft may have a working channel extending longitudinally therethrough and a distal region configured to be inserted into a patient. The exterior of the shaft may be protected by a laminate layer that is more flexible at the distal regions of the shaft than at more proximal regions, so as to improve steering. The shaft wall may be comprised of braided filaments so as to minimize the outer diameter of the shaft while maintaining a maximum working channel diameter. The handle may include symmetrical steering mechanisms to enable ambidextrous steering capabilities.