In-line Vessel Sealer Activation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrosurgical forceps face challenges in maintaining precise control over pressure and gap distance for effective tissue sealing, particularly in large vessels, which can lead to short circuits or inadequate sealing, and lack the ability to independently activate grasping and cutting functions.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a housing with a shaft and end effector assembly featuring jaw members that can be moved by a first handle, with a slider mechanism allowing for in-line activation of the jaw members and a latch assembly for locking the handle, enabling independent control of grasping and cutting, and a switch activation system for precise electrical control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If in-line activation is implemented to simplify operation, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to independently control grasping and cutting functions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument implements dynamic configurability through a slider mechanism that allows the user to switch between two operational modes: in-line activation mode where the handle simultaneously controls both grasping and cutting, and independent activation mode where the handle only controls grasping and a separate button controls cutting. This dynamic reconfiguration resolves the contradiction by allowing the user to select the appropriate level of integration based on surgical needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is designed with multi-functionality to accommodate both in-line activation and independent activation modes. By incorporating a slider that can position the activation element in different locations, the same handle structure serves dual purposes: it provides simplified in-line operation when selected, while also maintaining independent control capability when the slider is positioned differently, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise control over pressure and gap distance is implemented to improve sealing effectiveness, then tissue sealing quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument incorporates a latch assembly that automatically engages when the handle is actuated, thereby self-regulating the pressure and gap distance parameters. The latch mechanism physically limits the maximum compression force and maintains a consistent gap between electrodes during tissue sealing. This self-service approach achieves precise sealing control without requiring complex external control systems, multiple sensors, or sophisticated electronics, thus resolving the contradiction between sealing precision and device complexity.
3Reliability
If a latch assembly is added to lock the handle to maintain precise pressure, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is merged with the existing handle actuation mechanism rather than being implemented as a separate, independent system. The latch utilizes the same mechanical motion and structural elements already present in the handle, integrating the pressure control function into the existing design framework. This merging approach enhances sealing reliability through consistent pressure application while minimizing the increase in device complexity by reusing existing components and pathways.
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
This solution allows for precise control over tissue sealing by enabling independent activation of grasping and cutting functions, ensuring effective tissue sealing with adjustable pressure and gap distance, reducing the risk of short circuits and improving surgical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A switch is disposed on the housing and is disposed in the actuation path of the first handle, the switch configured for activation by the first handle when the first handle is fully actuated relative to the housing
Implementation Method 2
A slider is disposed in the first handle and is movable between a first, in-line position configured to align the switch activation element with the switch
Implementation Method 3
The jaw members may be approximated to apply a mechanical clamping force to the tissue
Implementation Method 4
The electrodes are charged to opposite electrical potentials such that an electrosurgical current may be selectively transferred through tissue grasped between the electrodes
Implementation Method 5
latch assembly for locking the handle
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes a housing having an elongated shaft with jaw members at a distal end thereof configured to treat tissue upon electrical activation thereof. A first handle is movable relative to the housing to move the jaw members relative to one another to grasp tissue therebetween. A switch is disposed on the housing and configured for activation by the first handle when fully actuated. A slider is disposed in the first handle and is movable between a first position configured to align a switch activation element on the first handle with the switch to activate the jaw members upon full actuation of the first handle and a second position wherein the switch activation element is misaligned with the switch such that full actuation of the first handle does not activate the jaw members.