Helical Expandable Access Structure for Curved Body Passages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional access devices require a straight, full-depth incision and are non-expandable, limiting access around body curves and passages, and may cause unnecessary tissue damage.
Innovation Solution
Expandable access devices with a helical or wrapped shape, featuring a trocar and sleeve configuration that can be expanded radially or through a band release, allowing navigation through natural body curves without full incisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional straight access devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot navigate around body curves and passages
Solution Approach 1:
The access device transitions from a static straight configuration to a dynamic curved configuration that can adapt to body passages. The device is designed to be flexible and changeable in shape, allowing it to navigate around curves while maintaining structural integrity through the phase transition mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes phase transition of material to change its physical state between solid and non-solid, which fundamentally alters its shape and flexibility parameters. This allows the device to transform from a rigid straight form to a flexible curved form that can navigate complex anatomical pathways.
2Ease of operation
If traditional non-expandable access devices are used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but the device limits access for objects and requires full-depth incisions
Solution Approach 1:
The access device is designed with expandable capabilities, transitioning from a compressed low-profile state for insertion to an expanded state that provides adequate access for objects. This dynamic size change allows the device to fit through small incisions while providing sufficient working space when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where components are contained within each other in the compressed state, allowing the device to be inserted through small openings. Upon expansion, these nested components unfold or extend to provide the necessary access diameter for surgical instruments while reducing tissue damage.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional fixed diameter cannulas are used, then the device structure is simple, but the device causes unnecessary tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a small compressed diameter for insertion to a larger expanded diameter for access, matching the tissue opening size to the actual needs of the procedure. This dynamic size adjustment minimizes tissue disruption during insertion while providing adequate access when deployed, reducing unnecessary tissue damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is inserted in a compressed state through a small incision, creating the access pathway with minimal tissue disruption. After positioning, the device expands to provide the necessary access diameter, ensuring that the initial tissue trauma is minimized while still achieving the required access for the procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments may include an expandable access system having contracted and expanded configurations. The system and methods may include an expandable access device having a helix or wrapped shape. Embodiments may include a cannula, stent, needle, trocar, introducer, fastener, and/or any other devices disclosed herein. Embodiments may also include an expandable trocar positionable in at least a portion of the access device. A sleeve or band may be disposed over at least a portion of the access device and configured to resist radial expansion of the access device. Expansion of the trocar and/or receipt of an object may radially expand the access device between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration.