Interchangeable Clip Reloads for Precise Surgical Clip Crimping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical clip appliers face challenges in efficiently and reliably delivering and deforming clips to apply clamping force to tissue, particularly in the context of surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of a clip applier with interchangeable clip reloads and a mechanism that includes a reciprocating firing drive for advancing clips, a receiver for receiving clips, and a crimping drive for deforming them, along with a rotary input and output system for precise control and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a surgical clip applier uses a fixed, non-interchangeable clip delivery system, then the device structure is simpler, but the adaptability to different surgical needs and clip types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clip delivery system is segmented into a reusable applier body and interchangeable clip reloads. The reloads can be detached and replaced to accommodate different clip types, sizes, and configurations, while the main applier body remains consistent. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to various surgical needs without redesigning the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The applier body is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of clip reloads through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality enables a single applier device to perform various clip application tasks by simply changing the reload, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Productivity
If a surgical clip applier uses a manual clip loading mechanism, then the device complexity is lower, but the productivity and efficiency of clip delivery are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Clips are pre-loaded into reloads outside the sterile field before surgery begins. The reloads are prepared in advance with clips organized in the correct sequence and configuration, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual loading during the surgical procedure. This preliminary action significantly improves clip delivery efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip advancement mechanism is designed to automatically feed clips from the reload to the application site through reciprocating motion. The system self-advances clips without requiring manual intervention for each individual clip, improving productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through automated sequencing.
3Manufacturing precision
If a surgical clip applier uses a single integrated firing and crimping mechanism, then the device structure is simpler, but the precision and control over clip deformation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clip application process is segmented into distinct firing and crimping phases with separate drive mechanisms. The firing drive positions the clip precisely at the application site, while the crimping drive independently controls the deformation force and timing. This separation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function, improving precision without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A receiver component acts as an intermediary between the firing and crimping drives. The receiver holds the clip during the transition from firing to crimping, ensuring precise positioning and stable support. This intermediary element enables coordinated action between the two drives while maintaining control over clip deformation precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a surgical clip applier uses interchangeable clip reloads, then the adaptability to different surgical procedures is improved, but the device complexity and potential for errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each clip reload is designed with specific local characteristics tailored to particular clip types or surgical applications. The reloads have customized features such as clip orientation, spacing, and loading mechanisms that match the requirements of specific procedures. This local quality ensures reliable performance for each application while maintaining overall system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The applier system incorporates feedback mechanisms to verify proper reload installation and clip availability. Sensors or mechanical indicators provide real-time information about the reload status, ensuring that the correct reloaded is attached and clips are properly positioned before and during the procedure. This feedback reduces errors and enhances reliability despite the use of interchangeable components.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical device for clipping tissue is disclosed. The surgical device comprises a housing, a shaft extending from the housing, and a first reload releasably attachable to the shaft. The first reload comprises a first end effector and a first clip magazine including a plurality of first clips. The surgical device further comprises a second reload releasably attachable to the shaft when the first reload is not attached to the shaft. The first reload and the second reload are different sizes. The second reload comprises a second end effector and a second clip magazine including a plurality of second clips.