Reconfigurable Offset Forceps for Bipolar Grasping and Monopolar Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrosurgical devices require switching between monopolar and bipolar capabilities, which disrupts surgical procedures and limits the application of a single therapy current, necessitating the need for a device that can seamlessly switch between configurations without additional parts.
Innovation Solution
An electrosurgical device with forceps that can be mechanically reconfigured between bipolar and monopolar configurations, allowing for seamless switching between therapy currents using a single hand, enabling both gripping and cutting functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a surgeon uses a monopolar device for a procedure, then monopolar power can be applied, but if bipolar power is needed the surgeon must switch to a different device, which disrupts procedure flow and causes delays
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps are designed with dual functionality to perform both monopolar and bipolar electrosurgical procedures. The device includes a first working arm and a second working arm that can be configured in different spatial relationships: when substantially opposite each other, the forceps function in bipolar mode with therapy current between the arms; when askew relative to each other, the forceps function in monopolar mode with therapy current extending from an electrode edge. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for surgeons to switch between separate monopolar and bipolar devices, maintaining continuous procedure flow without device changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a device is designed to perform both monopolar and bipolar functions, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps incorporate a dynamic reconfiguration mechanism that allows the working arms to change their spatial relationship during use. The arms can be positioned substantially opposite each other for bipolar configuration or askew relative to each other for monopolar configuration. This dynamic adaptability is achieved through mechanical design features such as articulation points or adjustable positioning mechanisms that enable the arms to assume different orientations without requiring additional components or complex switching systems.
3Ease of operation
If the forceps working arms are substantially opposite each other, then bipolar gripping function is achieved, but the ability to form electrode edge for cutting is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps enable dynamic reconfiguration of the working arms between two primary configurations: when the arms are substantially opposite each other, they provide optimal bipolar gripping function with contact surfaces facing each other for secure tissue grasp; when the arms are positioned askew relative to each other, they form an electrode edge suitable for cutting operations. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the device to adapt its geometry to match the specific surgical task required at any given moment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a generator produces multiple therapy currents, then more therapy options are available, but the electrosurgical device may only be capable of controlling and applying a single therapy current
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps are designed as a universal electrosurgical device that can apply both monopolar and bipolar therapy currents. The device includes configuration mechanisms that allow the working arms to be positioned for bipolar mode (substantially opposite each other) or monopolar mode (askew relative to each other). This multi-functionality is achieved through mechanical design rather than complex electronic control systems, allowing the forceps to work with generators that produce multiple therapy currents while maintaining simplicity in control capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrosurgical device comprising: forceps including: (i) a first working arm having a contact surface and (ii) a second working arm having a contact surface; wherein the forceps has a first electrical configuration where the contact surface of the first working arm and the contact surface of the second working arm are substantially opposite each other so that the contact surfaces of the forceps can be used to grip an item between the working arms and so that the forceps is configured to deliver a first therapy current through the first working arm, the second working arm, or both; and wherein the forceps has second electrical configuration where the contact surface of the first working arm and the contact surface of the second working arm are askew relative to each other and an electrode edge is formed on at least one side of the forceps so that a second therapy current extends from the electrode edge.