Folding-Mirror Periscope for Duodenoscope Forward Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Duodenoscopes lack direct forward visualization during insertion, increasing the risk of scope-related damage or perforation, particularly in pediatric patients with biliary diseases, due to reliance on side-viewing cameras and tactile feedback.
Innovation Solution
A periscope device with an elongated body and deployment mechanism that rotates a folding section with a mirror to provide temporary forward viewing, allowing direct visualization during duodenoscope advancement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a duodenoscope with side-viewing camera is used, then ERCP procedures can be performed with instrument access, but direct forward visualization during insertion is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A periscope device is introduced as an intermediary component within the duodenoscope's working lumen. The periscope contains a mirror that reflects light from the forward direction back to the side-viewing camera, enabling the camera to capture forward images while the duodenoscope maintains its side-viewing capability and instrument access functions
Solution Approach 2:
The periscope device utilizes optical reflection to redirect light paths from the forward axis to the side-viewing camera's detection plane. This dimensional transformation allows the side-viewing camera to perceive forward images by changing the light propagation direction through the mirror at approximately 45-degree angles
2Reliability
If forward visualization is added to duodenoscope, then risk of mucosal injury is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The periscope device is designed to be inserted within and advance through the working lumen of the existing duodenoscope. This nested configuration allows the periscope to be housed within the duodenoscope during storage and transport, then deployed internally to provide forward visualization without requiring external modifications to the duodenoscope structure
Solution Approach 2:
The periscope device with its mirror and optical system is integrated into the working lumen to provide forward visualization capability while the duodenoscope simultaneously maintains its side-viewing camera and instrument passage functions. This multi-functionality allows a single integrated system to perform both original duodenoscope functions plus additional forward viewing
3Loss of information
If periscope device is deployed, then forward-facing view is provided, but side visualization is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The periscope device is designed to work continuously with the side-viewing camera rather than replacing it. The mirror reflects forward images to the side-viewing camera, which continues to function and transmit images to the display system, ensuring continuous visualization capability throughout the procedure without interruption or loss of side viewing 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
Reduces the risk of mucosal injury and perforation by enabling safe manipulation of duodenoscopes, especially in pediatric patients, by providing a forward-facing view during ERCP procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The folding section includes a mirror that reflects a forward-facing view to the side-viewing camera
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a periscope device to provide forward viewing with a duodenoscope. The periscope device includes an elongated body and a deployment mechanism. The elongated body has a proximal end and a distal end. A folding axis of the elongated body defines an elongated section and a folding section of the elongated body. The folding section is located at the distal end of the elongated body and includes a mirror attached to an outer surface. The deployment mechanism is connected to the proximal end of the elongated body and is configured to cause the folding section to rotate about the folding axis at an angle of rotation with respect to the elongated section of the elongated body.