Offset Image Pickup Device in Pivotable Forceps for Surgical Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical treatment methods face challenges when performing procedures in confined spaces, such as the abdominal cavity or mediastinum, due to limited access and obstruction by ribs, making it difficult to insert and maneuver instruments while maintaining clear visualization with endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
A surgical treatment apparatus featuring a pivotable forceps mechanism with an offset image pickup device and working channel, allowing for flexible insertion and rotation of instruments, enabling better access and visualization within the body cavity without the need for multiple openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple openings are formed in the abdominal wall to insert forceps and endoscope, then treatment can be performed, but the number of openings increases and patient invasion is greater
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the endoscope and forceps into a single integrated apparatus, allowing both observation and treatment functions to be performed through one opening in the abdominal wall. The endoscope is positioned in a sheath that also accommodates the forceps, enabling simultaneous visualization and surgical intervention without requiring separate access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus serves multiple functions through a single device: the endoscope provides visual observation while the forceps perform treatment operations. This multi-functional design allows the system to replace what would traditionally require separate instruments inserted through multiple openings, reducing patient invasion while maintaining treatment capability.
2Length of moving object
If forceps and endoscope are inserted at limited positions and angles to avoid ribs, then insertion is possible, but the operation becomes difficult and treatment area may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The forceps are designed with a joint mechanism that allows them to pivot and change orientation dynamically. The pair of forceps members can be freely opened and closed, and the joint enables the forceps to adapt to different angles and positions within the body cavity, overcoming the limitations of fixed insertion angles required by rib anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The forceps incorporate a joint that adds rotational freedom in addition to the linear insertion path. This joint mechanism allows the forceps to operate in multiple dimensions - not only moving forward along the insertion path but also rotating and adjusting their orientation, thereby accessing treatment areas that would be obstructed by rib structures.
3Loss of information
If endoscope is used for observation during treatment, then visualization is provided, but the treatment area is obstructed by ribs and cannot be viewed in some cases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design positions the endoscope and forceps such that the endoscope acts as an intermediary observation tool that can view around obstructions. By having the endoscope positioned in the sheath alongside the forceps, the system can achieve observation angles that bypass rib obstructions while the forceps perform treatment, maintaining visualization quality without being blocked by anatomical structures.
4Length of moving object
If transurethral manipulation is used, then treatment can be performed, but observation is difficult due to narrow inlet and no space for multiple openings
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus merges the observation function (endoscope) and treatment function (forceps) into a single integrated unit that passes through the narrow urethral inlet. The endoscope is positioned within the sheath that also contains the forceps, allowing both functions to coexist in the limited space of a single-channel transurethral approach, eliminating the need for multiple separate openings.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical treatment apparatus according to the present invention includes an outer sheath, extending from a base portion subject to an operator's hand to the tip subject to insertion into a body cavity, that is provided with a working channel through which a treatment instrument can be passed; an image pickup device disposed at the tip portion of the outer sheath; and pivotable forceps disposed at the tip portion of the outer sheath, supported on a supporting section protruding in the axial direction via a joint being bent away from the working channel, and having a pair of forceps members arranged so as to be freely opened/closed, wherein the image pickup device is disposed at a position between the axis line of the supporting section and the axis line of the working channel and offset from an imaginary line connecting the two axis lines.