Medical Gripping Device with Segmented Bowden Cable Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical gripping devices are inadequate for simultaneously gripping and fixing multiple tissue parts or closing openings in the tissue, often requiring multiple devices and additional endoscopes, which can be challenging due to anatomical constraints and increases the risk of complications.
Innovation Solution
A medical gripping device with a flexible shaft, multiple independently controllable branches, and a handle with a connecting element that allows precise control of each branch, enabling separate gripping and fixation of at least two tissue parts, and includes features like Bowden cables, ergonomic design, and distinguishable branches and web elements for clear operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only one mouth is provided in the gripping device, then the device structure remains simple, but at least two gripping devices are required to grip multiple tissue parts, which increases device complexity and requires additional working channels
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping device is segmented into multiple independent branches (at least two branches) that can be individually actuated. Each branch has its own control mechanism, allowing independent manipulation of different tissue parts through a single device, thereby eliminating the need for multiple devices and additional working channels
2Ease of operation
If two ropes are connected to one end of a Bowden cable extending through the hollow shaft, then the mouth can be opened and closed, but individual control of multiple branches is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent Bowden cables, with each cable dedicated to controlling a specific branch. This segmentation allows individual actuation of each branch while maintaining the mechanical advantage and ease of operation provided by the Bowden cable mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The Bowden cable acts as an intermediary transmission element that transfers the actuation force from the handle to the individual branches. Multiple such intermediaries (one per branch) enable independent control while maintaining a simple interface at the handle
3Reliability
If multiple gripping devices are used to grip multiple tissue parts, then all tissue parts can be gripped, but the requirement for a second working channel or additional endoscope increases procedural complexity and anatomical access constraints
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple gripping functions that would traditionally require separate devices are merged into a single gripping device with multiple independently controllable branches. This consolidation maintains the reliability of tissue gripping while eliminating the need for multiple devices, additional working channels, and reducing procedural complexity
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
Enables precise and independent control of multiple branches, reducing the need for multiple devices and endoscopes, improving surgical precision and safety by allowing controlled tissue manipulation and closure without increasing anatomical access constraints.
Implementation Method 1
Both cable jackets of the Bowden cables are then installed within a common through passage of the shaft, so that the flexible cables are capable to transmit both push- and pull forces.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an endoscope cap with a holding and withdrawal device for a tissue clip (4) that can be placed onto a spreading sleeve (3) of the endoscope cap (1). The endoscope cap comprises an end groove (7) that opens at the front edge of the spreading sleeve (3) and that slits open the cap wall on both sides, and a withdrawal thread or web (11) that radially traverses the end groove (7) in a forward axial cap section and that is introduced or can be introduced slideably into an endoscope channel for actuation thereof at a radial inside of the endoscope cap (1).