Force Sensor for Handheld Surgical Stapler
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current circular stapling devices rely on subjective visual and haptic feedback for tissue clamping, which can lead to inconsistencies in compression force, potentially causing tissue damage due to over-compression or under-compression, and are challenging for surgeons to master.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a force sensor, such as a force sensitive resistor, within the surgical device to monitor compression forces and provide visual, haptic, and audible feedback, ensuring that the applied force is within a safe range for tissue clamping, thereby reducing subjectivity and ensuring consistent clamp forces across various tissue types and thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual gauge and haptic feedback are used for tissue clamping, then the stapler can indicate when to fire, but the feedback is subjective and leads to compression force inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective mechanical haptic feedback with an objective electronic force sensor system. The force sensor (e.g., load cell, strain gauge, or piezoelectric sensor) electronically measures compression force and converts it to an electrical signal, eliminating the subjectivity of manual haptic perception and providing precise, quantifiable force data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where the force sensor continuously monitors compression force during tissue clamping, and the controller provides real-time feedback to the user through visual indicators (LEDs, display screen) or audible signals. This feedback loop enables surgeons to adjust clamping force in real-time, ensuring optimal compression without exceeding safe limits.
2Adaptability or versatility
If subjective haptic feedback is provided during clamping, then surgeons can feel tissue compression, but the feedback varies due to surgeon strength and experience
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensor system performs self-measurement and self-reporting of compression force, independent of the surgeon's physical characteristics. The sensor objectively quantifies the actual force applied to tissue, providing consistent and reproducible measurements that do not vary with surgeon strength, experience, or tactile sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from subjective tactile perception to objective force quantification. By measuring actual compression force in Newtons or pounds and providing this data through standardized visual or audible indicators, the system creates consistent feedback across different surgeons regardless of their physical or experiential differences.
3Reliability
If no force monitoring is implemented, then the device remains simple, but tissue damage occurs due to over-compression or under-compression
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensor system provides real-time monitoring during the entire clamping process, enabling preliminary detection of excessive or insufficient compression forces before they cause tissue damage. The system can alert the surgeon to adjust force application or stop clamping before irreversible tissue injury occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The force sensor acts as an intermediary between the surgeon's manual clamping action and the tissue. It measures the actual force transmitted to the tissue and provides objective information about the mechanical state, serving as a mediator that protects tissue from harmful compression forces while maintaining surgical control.
4Manufacturing precision
If force sensor and feedback system are integrated, then compression force consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensor system serves multiple functions: it measures compression force, provides real-time feedback to the user, monitors tissue safety, and can control the firing mechanism. By integrating these functions into a single coordinated system, the patent reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture despite the added capabilities.
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
The force sensor system provides real-time feedback, reducing the risk of tissue damage by ensuring appropriate compression forces are applied, enhancing surgical precision and consistency, and aiding in training by standardizing the clamping process across surgeons.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor disposed at a distal end of the surgical device and configured to sense a change in electrical resistance indicating a compression force imparted on tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical device includes a tool assembly and a handle assembly. The tool assembly includes a distal portion including a plurality of staples and an anvil assembly movable relative to the distal portion from an open position to a clamped position. The handle assembly includes an approximation mechanism coupled to the anvil assembly and configured to move the anvil assembly from the open position to the clamped position, a force sensor disposed at a distal end of the surgical device, and a controller. The force sensor is configured to sense a change in resistance indicating a force imparted on compressed tissue and on the approximation mechanism. The controller is configured to receive a signal indicative of a force measured by the force sensor and provide an indication of the sensed force.