Multi-Lumen Catheter With Expandable Cage for Endoscopic Working Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic technologies lack the ability to minimally-invasively expand the working space around target tissues that may collapse during treatment, and there is a need for organizing endoscopes and instruments to maximize maneuverability and flexibility in approaching and visualizing target tissues.
Innovation Solution
A flexible catheter system with multiple lumens and a reversibly-expandable retractor system that creates a larger working space, allowing independent manipulation and visualization of endoscopes and instruments, with tools having a double curved configuration for enhanced maneuverability and triangulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional endoscopic procedures are used, then the procedure is minimally invasive, but the working space around target tissues collapses during treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor system is designed to be reversibly expandable, transitioning from a compressed delivery state to an expanded working state. The retractor elements can be dynamically adjusted between retracted and extended positions to maintain working space volume while allowing minimally invasive delivery through the catheter
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor system is divided into multiple independent retractor elements (first retractor element, second retractor element, etc.) that can be individually controlled. Each element can be selectively extended or retracted to create and maintain the working space around the target tissue, preventing collapse while allowing flexible manipulation
2Area of stationary object
If the endoscope and instruments are organized in a traditional manner, then the procedure is simpler, but the working space is not maximized for treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter system employs a nested structure where the endoscope, multiple flexible tubes with channels, and retractor elements are arranged concentrically within the catheter. The retractor elements can be delivered in a compressed state within the catheter lumen and then deployed outward to create the working space, maximizing the working area while managing system complexity through organized nesting
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor elements are positioned to extend radially outward from the catheter axis, creating a three-dimensional working space around the target tissue. This dimensional arrangement maximizes the working area by utilizing the radial dimension, allowing instruments to approach the target from multiple angles while the endoscope maintains axial positioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distal portion of the flexible tube is straight, then the instrument delivery is simpler, but the flexibility and maneuverability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distal portion of the flexible tube is configured with curves (first curve and second curve) instead of being straight. These curves provide flexibility and maneuverability, allowing the instrument to navigate tortuous anatomy and approach the target tissue from optimal angles. The curved configuration enables the instrument to bend and articulate while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible tube has different structural characteristics at different locations: the proximal portion maintains a simpler configuration for easy delivery, while the distal portion incorporates curves and flexibility features specifically where maneuverability is needed. This local differentiation optimizes both delivery simplicity and operational flexibility without requiring the entire tube to be complex
Data Source
AI summary
A system for performing minimally invasive procedures in a body lumen of a patient including a flexible catheter having a first lumen configured and dimensioned to receive an endoscope therethrough and a second lumen configured and dimensioned to receive a first flexible tube therethrough. The first flexible tube is movable through the second lumen and has a distal portion including a first curve extending in a first direction with respect to the longitudinal axis and a second curve extending in a second different direction with respect to the longitudinal axis. A retractor system is positioned at a distal portion of the catheter and is movable from a non-expanded insertion position to an expanded position forming an expanded cage to form a larger working space. The distal portion of the first flexible tube is movable within the expanded cage.