Multi-Orientation Razor Blade for Shave Biopsy
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Solution Overview
Problem
During shave biopsies, it is challenging to completely separate skin lesions from the skin as they often 'flip over' on a final stalk of skin, leading to difficulties in completing the final cut and risking accidental extension of the biopsy beyond the intended margin.
Innovation Solution
The development of a multi-orientation razor blade with a combination of straight and curved components allows for a single, smooth motion to engage and cut the final stalk of skin, eliminating the need for additional stabilization, such as using forceps or cotton-tipped applicators, by providing multiple angles of engagement for secure removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard razor blade is used to perform shave biopsy, then the initial cutting function is achieved, but the lesion flips over on the final stalk of skin making the final cut difficult to complete
Solution Approach 1:
The razor blade is segmented into multiple functional edges: a first cutting edge for the initial cut, a second cutting edge positioned at an angle for cutting the final stalk, and a third cutting edge for completing the final cut. This segmentation allows each edge to perform a specific function in sequence, preventing the lesion from flipping over and making the final cut achievable.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimensional aspect by adding cutting edges at different angles and positions on the same blade. The second cutting edge is positioned at an angle relative to the first edge, and the third edge is positioned to engage the lesion from a different orientation, effectively adding spatial dimensions to the cutting process.
2Reliability
If additional stabilization tools like forceps or cotton-tipped applicators are used to prevent lesion from flipping, then the final cut can be completed, but the device complexity and procedure time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single razor blade: the first cutting edge performs the initial cut, the second cutting edge prevents flipping by cutting the final stalk at an angle, and the third cutting edge completes the final cut. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate stabilization tools like forceps or cotton-tipped applicators, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The razor blade is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both the initial cutting tool and the final stabilization/cutting device. The multiple edges on the single blade perform different functions sequentially, making the blade universal for the entire biopsy process without requiring additional specialized tools.
3Reliability
If the surgeon uses one hand to manipulate the razor and the other to stabilize the skin, then the biopsy can be performed, but the ease of operation decreases and procedure time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the stabilization function and the final cutting function into the razor blade itself through the second and third cutting edges. The second edge cuts the final stalk at an angle to prevent flipping, and the third edge completes the final cut, all while the surgeon manipulates the razor with a single hand. This eliminates the need for the surgeon to use the other hand for stabilization, improving ease of operation while maintaining biopsy accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-orientation razor. The multi-orientation includes a substantially flat metal blade member being frangible about a central axis. The substantially flat metal blade member can have on a first peripheral edge thereof a first straight sharp edge. The first straight sharp edge can be parallel to the central axis. The first peripheral edge further includes a first concavely curved sharp edge. The substantially flat metal blade member can have on a second peripheral edge thereof a second straight sharp edge. The second straight sharp edge can be parallel to the central axis. The second peripheral edge can further include a second concavely curved sharp edge.