Modular Surgical Access Device with Adjustable Length and Anchor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trocar assemblies for minimally invasive surgical procedures face challenges such as difficulty in maintaining insufflation due to fluid leakage and instability, especially when instruments are inserted, and potential damage to adjacent vital structures during insertion.
Innovation Solution
A modular access device with a cannula and anchor segment that can adjust length and diameter, featuring polyaxially coupled segments and a seal mechanism to prevent fluid leakage and secure positioning within tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a typical trocar assembly is used to provide minimally invasive access, then access to the anatomical cavity is achieved, but fluid leakage occurs and insufflation cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The access device is divided into multiple segments including a proximal segment, a distal segment, and an intermediate segment. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for specific functions: the distal segment with anchor features for secure positioning, the intermediate segment for flexibility and length adjustment, and the proximal segment for connection to insufflation equipment, collectively preventing fluid leakage while maintaining access.
Solution Approach 2:
The access device incorporates adjustable length capability through the intermediate segment that can be extended or retracted. This dynamic adjustment allows the device to adapt to different tissue depths and patient anatomies, ensuring optimal sealing and insufflation maintenance without fluid leakage, while the device remains flexible enough to accommodate instrument insertion and removal.
2Ease of operation
If the trocar extends a distance above the skin surface to provide access, then access to the cavity is provided, but a gap is created through which insufflation fluid can escape
Solution Approach 1:
The access device transitions from a simple linear trocar to a multi-segmented structure with radial expansion capability. The distal segment can expand radially to engage tissue walls, creating a seal that prevents fluid escape while maintaining the necessary longitudinal extension for access. This dimensional change from one-dimensional linear structure to two-dimensional radial sealing surface effectively stops insufflation fluid leakage.
3Ease of operation
If the trocar is inserted through tissue to access the cavity, then minimally invasive access is achieved, but adjacent vital structures may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates an expandable anchor segment that is deployed after the initial puncture is made but before the full access device is advanced. This preliminary anchoring action secures the device in place, preventing further unintended advancement that could damage vital structures. The anchor acts as a safety mechanism that allows controlled progression while protecting surrounding tissues.
4Ease of operation
If the trocar moves relative to the tissue during instrument insertion, then access is maintained, but insufflation is affected and proper instrument positioning is interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-segmented design with distinct proximal, intermediate, and distal segments provides different functional characteristics. The distal segment with anchor features remains firmly positioned in the tissue, while the intermediate segment absorbs movement and flexibility requirements, and the proximal segment remains stable for instrument connection. This segmentation isolates the anchoring function from the instrument insertion function, maintaining overall stability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices are provided for providing surgical access into a body cavity. A surgical access port is provided that has an adjustable longitudinal length, such as by being formed from multiple segments configured to move relative to one another. An anchor can be coupled to a distal end of the surgical access port to help secure the surgical access port within a tissue opening by engaging a distal side of the tissue. Optionally, the anchor can be removably coupled to the distal end of the surgical access port, thereby allowing any one of a plurality of anchors to be selectively coupled thereto.