Nephroscope and Lithotripter Control Assembly for PCNL Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PCNL surgical tools for removing large kidney stones are difficult to manipulate and control, leading to kidney damage, longer recovery times, and the need for additional surgeries due to their improper usage.
Innovation Solution
Devices and methods that provide improved control over nephroscopes and lithotripters through a lithotripter locking assembly, nephroscope attachment device, and telescoping connector, allowing precise hand and wrist movements for enhanced safety and efficiency during percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional PCNL surgical tools are used, then kidney stones can be removed, but the tools are difficult to manipulate and control leading to kidney damage and longer recovery times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism between the surgeon's hand and the lithotripter/nephroscope tools. This includes a control handle with cable-driven actuation systems that serve as a mediator, translating surgeon inputs into precise tool movements while providing mechanical advantage and control feedback, thereby improving both safety and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates self-adjusting features where the tools automatically maintain optimal positioning and tension through spring-loaded mechanisms and cable tensioners. The system serves itself by automatically compensating for minor positioning errors and maintaining constant gentle pressure on the tools, reducing the need for continuous manual adjustment and improving safety
2Productivity
If traditional PCNL tools are used, then stone removal is achieved, but improper usage results in longer recovery times and additional surgeries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through visual indicators, tactile feedback, and controlled resistance in the cable-driven system. The surgeon receives real-time feedback on tool positioning and force application, allowing precise control that prevents kidney damage while maintaining high surgical efficiency. The system provides force feedback that alerts the surgeon to potential tissue contact or excessive pressure
Solution Approach 2:
The control system allows dynamic adjustment of operational parameters including force magnitude, movement speed, and positioning precision. By changing these parameters in real-time based on surgical conditions, the system optimizes both productivity and safety, enabling gentle tissue interaction while efficiently removing stones
3Duration of action of moving object
If nephroscopes and lithotripters are used over extended periods, then stone removal is complete, but surgeon fatigue increases and control difficulty rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control mechanisms where the system adapts its characteristics during extended procedures. The cable-driven system maintains consistent mechanical advantage throughout the range of motion, and spring-loaded components automatically adjust to compensate for fatigue-induced positioning drift, keeping control ease high even during long procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into modular components with independent adjustment capabilities. This allows the surgeon to reset or reposition individual control elements during extended procedures without affecting the entire system, reducing cumulative fatigue and maintaining control precision throughout the procedure duration
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are devices, systems and methods for treating kidney stones. In particular, provided herein are devices for improving the safety and efficiency of percutaneous nephrolithotomy.