Multi-Assembly Tissue Fastener Delivery Device with Rotating Hub
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for delivering tissue fasteners are inefficient in deploying multiple fasteners in rapid succession without the need for frequent reloading or removal, particularly in laparoscopic procedures where minimizing insertions and retractions within the patient is desirable.
Innovation Solution
A pre-loaded delivery device with multiple fastener assemblies and control mechanisms that allows for sequential deployment of fasteners, enabling quick and efficient attachment of tissue layers without requiring the device to be removed from the surgical site, utilizing a mechanism with a hub, wand, and control rods for automated alignment and operation of each fastener assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single tissue fastener delivery device is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the time required to deploy multiple fasteners increases due to repeated device removal and reloading
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device is segmented into multiple independent fastener assemblies (first, second, third fastener assemblies), each capable of independent deployment. This allows multiple fasteners to be deployed sequentially without removing the device, as each assembly can be activated independently through its own control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple fastener assemblies are pre-loaded into the delivery device before insertion. The control mechanisms are pre-positioned and connected to their respective fastener assemblies, allowing immediate sequential deployment upon insertion without requiring device removal or reloading between fasteners.
2Loss of time
If multiple fastener assemblies are pre-loaded in the delivery device, then the productivity improves by reducing device repositioning, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control mechanisms are merged into a single integrated delivery device structure. The control mechanisms for the first, second, and third fastener assemblies are combined within the same device housing, allowing all controls to be operated from a single insertion point without requiring separate device handling for each fastener.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery device is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple fastener assemblies simultaneously. A single device structure performs the function of delivering and controlling multiple independent fastener assemblies, reducing the need for repeated device insertions and retractions.
3Productivity
If sequential deployment of fastener assemblies is enabled, then the procedural efficiency increases, but the mechanism complexity increases due to indexing and selection features
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is designed to be rotatable, allowing dynamic selection of which fastener assembly to deploy next. The indexing mechanism dynamically positions the control mechanisms to engage with the appropriate fastener assembly in sequence, enabling flexible and efficient deployment order adjustment during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing mechanism automatically positions the control mechanisms for the next fastener assembly in sequence after each deployment. This self-indexing feature reduces the need for manual repositioning or complex external control adjustments, allowing the device to service itself through automatic sequential positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for delivering multiple tissue fasteners with needle and fastener assemblies each of which comprises a hollow needle adapted to be passed through tissue layers to be fastened, the needle containing a proximal and a distal implant, the implants being configured to self-expand when ejected from the needle, the implants being lockable to each other after ejection in response to drawing the implants together with tissue gripped between the implants.