Integrated Forceps Dilator for Single-Step Cervical Biopsy Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cervical biopsy procedures require multiple rods for dilation, making them time-consuming and uncomfortable for patients due to the need for successive insertions and removals.
Innovation Solution
A single dilator apparatus integrated with forceps that includes a rod and insertion member, allowing for gradual dilation of the cervical os and enabling efficient insertion of biopsy tools into the endocervical canal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple rods are used for dilation in cervical biopsy procedures, then the cervical os can be adequately dilated, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and increases patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple dilation rods into a single integrated dilator apparatus that can progressively dilate the cervical os in one continuous operation. The dilator includes a shaft with progressively spaced apertures that allow sequential expansion of the cervical os through a single insertion and manipulation motion, eliminating the need for multiple separate rod insertions and removals.
Solution Approach 2:
The dilator apparatus serves multiple functions within a single device: it acts as both a dilation tool and a guide for subsequent biopsy instrument insertion. The shaft structure provides both the dilation mechanism and the pathway for forceps or other biopsy tools, making the device universal for both dilation and tissue retrieval operations.
2Reliability
If multiple rods are inserted and removed successively, then adequate dilation is achieved, but patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple dilation steps into a single operational sequence where the dilator shaft is inserted once and progressively expands the cervical os through its progressively spaced apertures. This eliminates repeated insertion and removal operations that cause discomfort, while maintaining adequate dilation through the continuous expansion mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The dilator apparatus performs preliminary dilation of the cervical os in a controlled, progressive manner before biopsy instrument insertion. The progressively spaced apertures in the shaft allow the cervical os to be gradually expanded to the required size in advance, reducing trauma and discomfort during the subsequent biopsy procedure.
3Productivity
If a single dilator tool is used for gradual dilation, then procedure time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dilator shaft is segmented with multiple progressively spaced apertures along its length, creating a stepped structure that enables progressive dilation. Each aperture corresponds to a specific dilation stage, allowing the single dilator tool to achieve gradual expansion through its segmented geometry rather than requiring multiple separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The dilator apparatus incorporates dynamic elements including a movable dilating element that can be advanced along the shaft and a trigger mechanism that controls the expansion sequence. These dynamic components allow the single dilator to progressively expand the cervical os through controlled mechanical action, managing complexity through functional integration.
4Loss of time
If a single integrated dilator tool is used, then the number of steps is minimized, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shaft is segmented with multiple apertures at progressively spaced intervals, where the spacing is designed to correspond to specific dilation stages. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual aperture features that can be precisely controlled, reducing the overall manufacturing precision burden compared to creating a completely custom progressive dilation structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The dilator utilizes parameter changes in the aperture spacing along the shaft length to achieve progressive dilation. The apertures are spaced at increasing intervals from the tip toward the base of the shaft, creating a gradual expansion profile. This parameter-based approach allows for systematic manufacturing where aperture spacing follows a predictable pattern that can be controlled through standard machining processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A dilation and biopsy apparatus for dilating a lumen to facilitate inserting forceps jaws into the lumen includes a forceps with a shaft and a pair of jaws. The jaws are pivotally coupled to a front end of the shaft to alternately open and close. A dilator is mounted to the shaft of the forceps. The dilator comprises a rod and an insertion member. The rod is positioned in the shaft and is linearly movable alternately forwardly and rearwardly with respect to the shaft. The insertion member is coupled to a forward end of the rod and is movable alternately into and out of the shaft through the front end of the shaft and between the pair of jaws.