Linear Stapler Firing Assembly for Single-Handed Tissue Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear surgical staplers require two-handed operation for initial coupling of stapler halves, limiting single-handed tissue mounting and necessitating assistance for tissue placement.
Innovation Solution
A linear surgical stapler design that allows the clamp lever to remain in a fully open position while maintaining the coupling of stapler halves, enabling single-handed operation and tissue manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the clamp lever is closed to couple the stapler halves, then the stapler halves are securely coupled, but the clamp lever cannot remain open for single-handed tissue mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into two independent parts: a proximal coupling mechanism that maintains coupling when the clamp lever is open, and a distal coupling mechanism that engages when the clamp lever is closed. This segmentation allows the stapler to achieve reliable coupling in both open and closed positions, enabling single-handed tissue mounting while maintaining coupling security.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp lever is designed with dynamic functionality where it can remain in an open position while still maintaining coupling through the proximal coupling mechanism. The system transitions from a static closed-only coupling to a dynamic system that can maintain coupling in multiple positions, improving ease of operation for tissue mounting.
2Productivity
If two-handed operation is required for initial coupling, then reliable coupling is achieved, but operational efficiency is reduced and assistance is needed for tissue placement
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into proximal and distal components, where the proximal coupling mechanism enables the stapler to be coupled without requiring the surgeon's hands to be tied together. This segmentation eliminates the need for two-handed operation during initial coupling, significantly improving productivity and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The stapler system provides self-service coupling functionality where the proximal coupling mechanism automatically maintains coupling even when the clamp lever is in the open position. This eliminates the need for assistant assistance during tissue placement, as the system maintains coupling autonomously without requiring manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stapler includes a first elongate member, a second elongate member, and a clamp member operable to releasably clamp the first elongate member against the second elongate member. A distal portion of the first elongate member supports an anvil surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets. A distal portion of the second elongate member is configured to receive a staple cartridge. A firing assembly of the surgical stapler is translatable from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge when the first elongate member is clamped against the second elongate member. A retaining assembly of the surgical stapler includes a first retaining member configured to releasably couple a proximal end of the first elongate member with a proximal end of the second elongate member, and a second retaining member configured to releasably retain the firing assembly in the first longitudinal position.