Flexible Stimulation Probe for Robotic Surgery Nerve Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional stimulating probes are not equipped to function effectively in minimally invasive surgical environments, such as those used in robotic surgical systems, where precise nerve monitoring is required during procedures like laparoscopic surgeries.

Innovation Solution

A stimulation probe with a flexible wire, conductive tip, and handle is designed for use in robotic surgical systems, allowing for precise delivery and sensing of electrical stimulation signals within the surgical site, enabling effective evoked potential monitoring and nerve integrity assessment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional stimulating probes are used in minimally invasive surgical environments, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but the probes cannot function effectively for precise nerve monitoring

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenerve monitoring effectivenessVSAvoidcompatibility with minimally invasive environment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The stimulation probe incorporates a flexible wire as its structural core, allowing it to bend and conform to the constrained geometry of minimally invasive surgical access paths. This flexibility enables the probe to navigate through small incisions and reach deep surgical sites while maintaining structural integrity and electrical functionality for reliable nerve monitoring.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The probe is divided into distinct functional segments: a flexible wire for structural adaptability, a needle portion for precise tissue penetration, and a conductive tip for electrical stimulation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to solve the contradiction between flexibility and monitoring effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If a rigid stimulating probe is used for precise nerve monitoring, then measurement precision is improved, but the probe cannot be introduced through minimally invasive access paths

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenerve location accuracyVSAvoidprobe flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The probe transitions from a rigid structure to a dynamic, multi-state structure that can be inserted in a flexible, bent configuration through minimally invasive access paths, then positioned and stabilized at the target site for precise nerve monitoring. The needle portion provides structural stability when positioned, while the flexible wire allows adaptability during insertion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The probe incorporates curved and angled geometries, particularly in the needle portion and conductive tip, allowing it to navigate through tortuous tissue paths and access nerves in difficult-to-reach locations while maintaining the ability to deliver precise electrical stimulation signals for accurate nerve identification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Ease of operation

If the probe structure is simplified for minimally invasive use, then ease of operation is improved, but the functionality for both stimulation and sensing may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe maneuverabilityVSAvoidprobe functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stimulation probe is designed to perform multiple functions within a single integrated structure: it provides mechanical access through tissue penetration, delivers electrical stimulation signals for nerve activation, and serves as a return electrode for completing the electrical circuit. This multi-functionality is achieved through the conductive needle and wire structure that combines structural, stimulatory, and electrical return functions, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying the overall system while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables real-time nerve monitoring and integrity assessment during minimally invasive surgeries, reducing the risk of nerve damage by providing accurate feedback to surgeons through visual and auditory signals, facilitating precise surgical interventions.

Implementation Method 1

the applied stimulus signal is transmitted to the tissue evoking a response. Excitation of the tissue generates an electrical impulse that is sensed by the recording electrodes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11351369B2Stimulation probe for robotic and laparoscopic surgery

Publication Date: 2022.06.07 MEDTRONIC XOMED INC

AI summary

A stimulation probe includes a proximal end connector and a flexible wire coupled to the end connector. A handle is coupled to the wire and a needle extends from the handle and terminates at a conductive tip.