Medical Retrieval Handle Integrating Scope and Retrieval Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Noninvasive medical procedures, such as ureteroscopic procedures, often require multiple operators to control a scope and a retrieval device, leading to increased cost, complexity, communication gaps, and movement inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A single-handled retrieval device system is designed to be attached to a scope, featuring a handle with an actuator assembly that moves a sheath over a drive wire to expand or collapse an end effector, allowing a single user to operate both devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple operators are used to control the scope and retrieval device separately, then each operator can specialize in controlling one device, but the procedure complexity and cost increase, and communication gaps occur between operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the scope and retrieval device into a single integrated device with a unified handle assembly. The actuator assembly allows one operator to control both the scope positioning and retrieval device deployment simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple operators while maintaining specialized control functions through integrated actuators
2Reliability
If multiple operators are required for the procedure, then device functionality is maintained, but response times are delayed and movement inefficiencies occur
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the scope and retrieval device into one integrated system controlled by a single operator, the patent eliminates communication delays and coordination time. The single operator can immediately respond to procedural needs by directly manipulating both functions through the integrated actuator assembly, significantly reducing response times
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device provides multi-functionality within a single system, allowing one operator to perform both scope navigation and retrieval device deployment. This universal design enables the single operator to quickly switch between functions without waiting for another operator, improving procedural efficiency
3Device complexity
If a single user operates both scope and retrieval device, then complexity and cost are reduced, but control precision and ergonomics must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator assembly incorporates locally optimized control mechanisms with distinct actuators for scope positioning and retrieval device deployment. Each actuator is positioned and designed for specific ergonomic control, allowing the single operator to maintain precise control over each function despite operating both devices simultaneously
4Reliability
If multiple operators are used, then communication gaps may occur, but device functionality is preserved, increasing procedural cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates communication gaps by merging control of both devices into a single operator interface. The integrated actuator assembly allows the operator to directly control both scope and retrieval device without needing to communicate with another operator, preserving complete information flow and decision-making within a single operator
Data Source
AI summary
A retrieval device attachable to a scope includes a handle which has an attachment portion configured to couple the handle to the scope; a shaft coupled to the handle having a wire immovably coupled to the handle; and a sheath movable relative to the handle over the wire between a distal position and a proximal position via an actuator of the handle. The actuator actuates a slider assembly of the handle. The slider assembly is coupled to the sheath and movable relative to the attachment portion to move the sheath and an expandable end effector coupled to the distal end of the wire. The end effector is movable between a collapsed configuration when the sheath is moved distally to the distal position to cover the end effector and an expanded configuration when the sheath is moved proximally to the proximal position, uncovering the end effector.