Multi-Clip Hemostatic Applicator with Integrated Cauterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hemostatic clip applicators require frequent withdrawal and reloading for multiple clip applications, making the process time-consuming and inefficient for treating internal bleeding.

Innovation Solution

A multi-clip deployment mechanism integrated with a cauterization system that deploys multiple hemostatic clips sequentially without reinsertion, using a chain of electrically conductive clips to deliver thermal or electrical energy for cauterization while mechanically clamping the wound.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional hemostatic clip applicators are used to deploy multiple clips, then multiple bleeding sites can be treated, but the process requires frequent withdrawal and reloading which is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveefficiency of treating internal bleedingVSAvoidtime required for withdrawal and reloading

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is divided into multiple independent clip deployment units arranged in a linear array. Each unit can independently deploy a hemostatic clip, allowing multiple clips to be applied in sequence without withdrawing the applicator from the body. This segmentation enables continuous treatment of multiple bleeding sites while minimizing device manipulation time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple hemostatic clips are pre-loaded into the applicator in a linear configuration before insertion. The clips are positioned in advance at different distal locations along the applicator shaft, ready for sequential deployment. This preliminary loading eliminates the need for repeated withdrawal and reloading operations during the procedure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If multiple clips are deployed sequentially with conventional applicators, then adequate coverage of bleeding sites is achieved, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadequacy of wound closureVSAvoidcomplexity of multi-clip deployment process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple hemostatic clip deployment functions are merged into a single applicator device. The linear array of clip units allows simultaneous integration of multiple clipping capabilities in one instrument, enabling reliable wound closure while simplifying the overall deployment process through unified device operation rather than repeated separate applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple clip deployments, cauterization, and tissue clamping operations through a single integrated device. This universal design allows the same applicator to handle various hemostatic requirements without requiring device changes or complex procedural steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If cauterization is applied separately from mechanical clipping, then thermal coagulation can be achieved, but the treatment time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of hemostatic treatmentVSAvoidduration of treatment procedure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Cauterization capability is merged with the mechanical clip deployment function in the same applicator device. The cauterization element is integrated alongside the linear array of clips, allowing simultaneous or coordinated application of thermal coagulation and mechanical clamping to the same tissue site, thereby reducing total treatment time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated design enables continuous useful action by allowing cauterization and mechanical clipping to be performed in a coordinated sequence without interrupting the treatment flow. The applicator maintains continuous engagement with the tissue, delivering both thermal and mechanical hemostatic effects in an uninterrupted manner.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enhances the efficiency of treating internal bleeding by combining mechanical pressure with cauterization, allowing for rapid and effective closure of wounds with minimal device movement within the body.

Implementation Method 1

a cautery apparatus heating the distal most one of the clips to cauterize the target tissue

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS8585716B2Apparatus for applying hemostatic clips

Publication Date: 2013.11.19 BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED INC

AI summary

An apparatus includes a hemostatic clip assembly including at least one hemostatic clip, a first one of the at least one hemostatic clips having a tissue clamp movable between a tissue receiving configuration and a tissue clamping configuration and a deployment mechanism deploying a distal most one of the clips onto target tissue and a cautery apparatus applying energy to the distal most one of the clips to cauterize the target tissue.