Modular Surgical Tool Combining Dissection, Suction, and Smoke Evacuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing surgical instruments face challenges in efficient tissue dissection, fluid suction, and smoke evacuation, leading to instrument clutter and obscured surgical fields.

Innovation Solution

A modular surgical tool with a tapered cutting end, elliptical aperture, and swivel connection for the evacuation hose, designed for precise dissection and simultaneous fluid and smoke evacuation, minimizing interference and enhancing maneuverability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate surgical instruments are used for dissection, suction, and smoke evacuation, then each function can be performed effectively, but the surgical field becomes cluttered and visibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional effectivenessVSAvoidinstrument clutter

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines dissection, fluid suction, and smoke evacuation functions into a single integrated surgical instrument. The shaft portion includes a cutting element for dissection, a suction element for fluid removal, and a smoke evacuation element, all housed within one tool body. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate instruments, reducing surgical field clutter while maintaining all necessary functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The surgical instrument is designed as a multi-functional universal tool that performs dissection, fluid suction, and smoke evacuation simultaneously or sequentially. The modular design with interchangeable elements allows the same basic shaft structure to accommodate different cutting elements, suction elements, and smoke evacuation components, making it a versatile instrument for various surgical tasks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If traditional surgical instruments are used without integrated evacuation systems, then the instrument structure remains simple, but fluid and smoke accumulation obscures the surgical field

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstrument structureVSAvoidfluid and smoke obstruction

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates suction and smoke evacuation channels directly into the shaft portion of the surgical instrument. The shaft includes a suction element with a lumen for fluid suction and a smoke evacuation element with its own lumen, allowing simultaneous removal of fluids and smoke. This internal integration prevents accumulation of harmful substances in the surgical field without requiring external attachments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a modular design with multiple portions is used, then adaptability and ease of cleaning are improved, but the connection reliability must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodular configurationVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The surgical instrument is divided into modular portions including a handle portion, a shaft portion, and interchangeable elements (cutting elements, suction elements, smoke evacuation elements). Each portion can be independently selected, assembled, and disassembled. The modular design allows customization for different surgical tasks and facilitates easy cleaning and maintenance of individual components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs an intermediary coupling mechanism at the junction between the handle portion and shaft portion, and between shaft elements. This intermediary connection structure ensures reliable transmission of forces and fluids while maintaining the modular separability. The coupling mechanism is designed to maintain seal integrity and mechanical strength at the connection interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The tool enhances surgical efficiency by reducing clutter, maintaining clear visibility, and ensuring effective fluid and smoke removal, improving safety and effectiveness in both open and minimally invasive procedures.

Implementation Method 1

a suction element configured to remove fluids from a surgical site

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Implementation Method 2

a smoke evacuation element configured to remove smoke from the surgical site

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEvacuation: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS12458372B2Tool for tissue dissection, fluid suction, and smoke evacuation

Publication Date: 2025.11.04 5TH INTERVAL LLC

AI summary

A modular surgical device is disclosed for efficient tissue dissection and fluid evacuation during surgical procedures. The device comprises a first portion with a cutting end tapered to a sharpened tip, a fluidic channel, and a uniquely shaped aperture. The aperture features an elliptical cross-section oriented at an angle relative to the device's longitudinal axis, potentially enhancing fluid flow dynamics. A releasable locking assembly securely connects the first portion to a second handle portion containing a fluidic channel and an angled external port for evacuation hose attachment. The device's modularity allows for customization and its angled port configuration is designed to minimize interference during surgical procedures.