Inflatable Endoscopic Sleeve for Tissue Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic methods for treating gastrointestinal tract issues, such as esophageal cancer, face challenges in accessing and stabilizing tissue due to tissue folds and constricted spaces, especially when adenomas are attached to multiple esophageal layers.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible sleeve with an inflatable member and a conduit for inflation, which expands to stabilize tissue and provide access through a port, allowing for improved visualization and treatment of tissue within the gastrointestinal tract.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional endoscopic methods are used to access tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, then the procedure can be performed, but the tissue folds and constricted space make it difficult to identify, stabilize, and access tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is divided into multiple inflatable segments or zones that can be independently inflated to stabilize specific portions of the gastrointestinal tract wall, allowing targeted stabilization without requiring the entire sleeve to be complex
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable sleeve acts as an intermediary device between the endoscope and the tissue, providing a stable platform that mediates the interaction between the endoscopic tools and the gastrointestinal tract wall, thereby facilitating easier tissue access
2Ease of operation
If the sleeve is inflated to stabilize tissue, then access and visualization are improved, but the device requires inflation mechanisms and conduits that add complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable sleeve serves multiple functions: it stabilizes tissue, provides a working platform for endoscopic tools, and can be deflated for removal, thereby reducing the need for separate stabilization devices and simplifying the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The sleeve utilizes pneumatic inflation through simple conduits and pumps to achieve tissue stabilization, a well-established technology that avoids the need for complex mechanical or electrical stabilization mechanisms
3Ease of operation
If the lumen volume is increased to facilitate access, then tissue treatment becomes easier, but the sleeve structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve transitions from a collapsed, low-volume state during insertion to an inflated, high-volume state during the procedure, allowing the same structure to provide both easy insertion and adequate working space without requiring multiple devices
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 sleeve effectively stabilizes and expands the tissue lumen, facilitating easier access and treatment by increasing the volume of the lumen and smoothing out tissue folds, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of endoscopic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable member configured to increase a volume of the lumen when the inflatable member is in an inflated state
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include a sleeve for use in a body lumen defined by body tissue. The sleeve includes a collapsible wall defining a lumen and including an inflatable member configured to increase a volume of the lumen when the inflatable member is in an inflated state, a conduit configured to inflate the inflatable member, and a port defined by the collapsible wall and in flow communication with the lumen.