Integrated Gynecologic Sheath for Simultaneous Tissue Cutting and Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gynecologic products are difficult to use and have limited functionality, often requiring a hospital setting with significant costs and limited treatment options, making it challenging to provide effective and safe diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for gynecologic disorders.
Innovation Solution
A comprehensive system comprising an intrauterine access and procedure system with an elongate tubular sheath, visualization elements, tissue removal tools, fluid ports, and additional features like inflatable balloons and stabilization devices, designed for transcervical access, allowing for simultaneous tissue cutting and removal, and enabling procedures to be performed in a doctor's office setting with enhanced safety and precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used for gynecologic procedures, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system becomes complex and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate gynecologic devices into a single integrated system. The sheath assembly integrates a visualization device, tissue removal device, and fluid delivery system that can all be inserted and operated through a single transcervical access point, eliminating the need for multiple separate instruments and reducing procedural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath assembly is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple functions: visualization of uterine cavity, removal of various tissue types (fibroids, polyps, tumors), delivery of fluids for distension or irrigation, and support for additional devices. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace multiple specialized instruments.
2Reliability
If hospital setting is used for gynecologic procedures, then comprehensive support and safety are ensured, but costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to enable procedures in outpatient or office settings by incorporating all necessary functional elements within a single self-contained sheath assembly. The integrated visualization, tissue removal, and fluid delivery capabilities allow the procedure to be performed independently without requiring hospital infrastructure, anesthesia, or specialized surgical support staff.
3Ease of operation
If larger sheath diameter is used, then easier insertion and device manipulation, but increased pain and tissue trauma
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a nested configuration where multiple devices are inserted sequentially through progressively larger lumens within the sheath. The visualization device is inserted first through a small lumen, followed by the tissue removal device through a larger lumen, and the fluid delivery system through an even larger lumen. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function while minimizing the overall sheath diameter.
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 system simplifies gynecologic procedures, reduces costs, minimizes pain and trauma, and enhances safety by allowing precise manipulation and reduced risk of infection and blood loss, enabling procedures to be performed in a doctor's office rather than a hospital, with improved diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The visualization element may comprise a lens, or an ultrasound transducer
Implementation Method 2
The tissue removal element may comprise a tissue cutter, such as an oscillating cutter or a rotating cutter
Implementation Method 3
The tissue removal element may comprise an acoustic generator
Implementation Method 4
The system may additionally comprise an inflatable balloon
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatus and devices for performing improved gynecologic and urologic procedures are disclosed. The system is configured to permit simultaneous tissue cutting and removal from a target site. The various embodiments enable procedures to be performed outside the hospital setting, such as in a doctor's office or clinic.