Multi-Button Biopsy Device Single-Handed Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biopsy devices often require complex setups and multiple hand operations for sample collection, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when attempting to collect multiple samples with a single insertion.
Innovation Solution
A handheld biopsy device with a separable probe and holster, featuring a needle with a cutter and valve mechanism that allows for single-handed operation, enabling pneumatically assisted tissue sampling and collection into a sample holder without the need for external tethers, utilizing a motor-driven cutter actuation mechanism and vacuum pump for efficient tissue procurement and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a biopsy device is designed to collect multiple tissue samples with a single insertion, then the productivity of the biopsy procedure is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple components (cutter, sample holder, valve mechanism, vacuum pump)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (cutting, sample collection, vacuum generation, and sample ejection) into a single integrated biopsy device. The cutter, sample holder, valve mechanism, and vacuum pump are merged into one cohesive unit that can be inserted through a single needle into the patient, allowing multiple samples to be collected without requiring multiple insertions or separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The biopsy device is designed as a multi-functional system where a single device performs multiple operations: the cutter cuts multiple tissue samples, the vacuum pump creates negative pressure to draw tissue into the sample holder, and the ejection button mechanism ejects samples sequentially. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple separate instruments.
2Reliability
If a biopsy device uses a tethered design connected to external vacuum and control modules, then the reliability of fluid and power communication is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the cumbersome setup and multiple hand operations required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the vacuum pump, control circuitry, and power source directly into the biopsy device housing, eliminating the need for external tethered modules. This self-contained design maintains reliable fluid and power communication internally while allowing the device to be operated with a single hand, as no external connections are required during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The biopsy device is designed to be self-sufficient with all necessary components (vacuum pump, cutter actuation mechanism, sample holder, and control systems) integrated into the single device. The device serves itself by generating its own vacuum, actuating the cutter, and managing sample collection without requiring external assistance or tethered connections, thereby improving ease of operation.
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 efficient, single-handed collection and storage of multiple tissue samples with a single insertion, improving operational ease and reducing the complexity of the sampling process while maintaining precision and control.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump operable to create negative pressure within the sample holder
Implementation Method 2
a valve mechanism selectively sealable about the needle to define a pressure differential across the needle
Data Source
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AI summary
A handheld biopsy device (10) comprises a needle (20), cutter (50), and body (30). The cutter is movable relative to the needle to sever tissue protruding into a transverse aperture (24) of the needle. The body includes a cutter actuation mechanism (60), at least two trigger buttons (302,304), and a control module (330). The biopsy device is configured such that the at least two trigger buttons are selectively enabled and disabled. A selectively enabled trigger button is operable to activate the cutter actuation mechanism. A selectively disabled trigger button is not operable to activate the cutter activation mechanism. The enabled trigger button may be selected electronically, such that the control module receives a user' s button selection input and enables or disables the trigger buttons accordingly. Alternatively, the body may include movable covers (350) to selectively cover or expose trigger buttons in accordance with the user's preference. The biopsy device may thus accommodate different operators having different gripping styles.