Tapered Obturator Tip Geometry for Minimizing Tissue Trauma
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trocar assemblies for laparoscopic surgery often cause trauma and have long recovery times due to inadequate penetration mechanisms for body tissue.
Innovation Solution
The development of a trocar assembly with various tapered obturator tip configurations, including elliptical, parabolic, and intersecting surface designs, which minimize tissue damage and facilitate smooth penetration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a sharp tip is used for penetrating body cavity, then penetration capability is improved, but tissue trauma increases
Solution Approach 1:
The obturator tip is designed with a curved, rounded configuration instead of a sharp angular tip. The tip features a radius of curvature that allows it to penetrate tissue through a rolling or pushing motion, distributing mechanical stress over a larger area and reducing focal point trauma while maintaining effective penetration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the obturator tip by specifying particular radius of curvature values and tip angle measurements. These parameter changes transform the tip from a sharp, high-stress configuration to a rounded, distributed-stress configuration that penetrates tissue more gently while maintaining effectiveness.
2Device complexity
If conventional trocar design is used, then surgical procedure is simple, but recovery time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The curved obturator tip design facilitates smoother passage through tissue layers and the cannula, reducing mechanical resistance and potential tissue damage. This streamlined geometry enables more efficient insertion and removal, contributing to reduced procedure time and faster patient recovery while maintaining surgical simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A trocar assembly for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures includes a cannula subassembly and an obturator subassembly. The obturator assembly includes an obturator shaft member defining a longitudinal axis and an obturator tip configured to be removable from the obturator shaft member or, alternatively, constructed with the obturator member as a single unit. Various designs of the obturator tip are contemplated.