Surgical Laser Fiber Tip Protective Structure with Scale Indicator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical laser fiber tip protective structures do not effectively allow for the accurate assessment of the size of targets during procedures, as existing markings on the proximal end become unreliable due to fiber tip erosion, and markings on the distal end are not uniformly usable for sizing purposes.
Innovation Solution
Applying scale-indicating markings, such as ruler or scale lines, to the protective structures surrounding the fiber tip, which can be visible through a scope, to provide a standardized measurement for determining the size of targets relative to the fiber tip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If markings are applied to the proximal end of the fiber, then the position of the distal end can be estimated, but the markings become unreliable due to fiber tip erosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective structure as an intermediary element between the fiber tip and the external environment. This protective structure remains stationary while the fiber tip may erode, allowing markings on the protective structure to maintain reliable position indication throughout the fiber's service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the fiber into two functional parts: the consumable fiber tip that may erode during use, and the durable protective structure that maintains stable markings. This segmentation allows the markings to be placed on the protective structure rather than the eroding fiber tip, resolving the reliability issue.
2Measurement precision
If markings are applied to the distal end of the fiber, then the fiber tip position can be indicated, but the markings are not uniformly usable for sizing purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The protective structure serves multiple functions: it protects the fiber tip from damage and erosion, maintains a standoff distance from target tissue, and provides a stable platform for scale markings. These scale markings enable both position indication and target size assessment, making the structure universally useful for multiple measurement purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds scale markings with known dimensions to the protective structure, transforming it from a simple protective element into a measurement tool. The scale markings provide a reference dimension that allows clinicians to assess target size by comparison, adding the capability of size measurement to the protective structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If the fiber tip is allowed to contact the target tissue, then precise treatment can be applied, but the fiber tip erodes and positioning accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective structure is pre-installed on the fiber tip before the procedure begins. It maintains a predetermined standoff distance from the target tissue, allowing the fiber to deliver treatment precisely while preventing direct contact that would cause erosion. This preliminary protective measure ensures both treatment precision and positioning accuracy are maintained throughout the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective structure acts as a cushion or buffer between the fiber tip and the target tissue. It absorbs the mechanical stress and prevents direct contact, thereby protecting the fiber tip from erosion while maintaining the ability to deliver precise laser treatment to the target.
Data Source
AI summary
A protective structure for the distal treatment end of a surgical laser fiber inserted into a patient through a scope includes uniformly-spaced ruler or scale markings that are visible through the scope and that enable the size of an object within the field of view of the scope to be precisely determined.