Parallel Jaw Ligation Clip Applier for Uniform Vessel Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical ligation clips face issues with inconsistent clamping force, slipping off vessels, inadequate ligation near the open end, and difficulty in using them through small trocar ports due to their design and material limitations, which complicates minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical ligation apparatus with parallel compression members and a clip applier that advances clips in an open position, using a smooth single-stage trigger to close the jaws and apply a ligation clip resiliently biased to a closed position, ensuring uniform compression and improved control for precise placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a crushing action is used to apply the clip to the vessel, then the clip can be applied to the vessel, but the clip becomes permanently deformed and difficult to remove or re-position
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is pre-formed with a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically closes around the vessel when released from the applier, eliminating the need for post-application crushing. The spring action is pre-configured in the clip design, allowing it to function without permanent deformation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the inside clearance dimension of the clip is made larger to accommodate vessels of 4 mm and larger diameter, then the clip can ligate larger vessels, but the applier cannot pass through small 5 mm trocars
Solution Approach 1:
The clip transitions from a static structure to a dynamic spring-loaded mechanism that can change its configuration. The clip is inserted through the trocar in a compressed state and then expands around the vessel using spring action, allowing it to accommodate vessels up to 4 mm diameter while passing through smaller 5 mm trocar ports.
3Device complexity
If the clip is designed without spring action, then the structure is simpler, but the ligating force varies along the length of the clip and decreases toward the open end
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism provides consistent ligation force throughout the clip length by maintaining constant elastic tension. The spring constant and pre-load are designed to ensure uniform force distribution along the clip, eliminating the force variation present in non-spring designs.
4Reliability
If a 10 mm diameter clip applier is used, then the clip can be applied effectively, but it cannot pass through a 5 mm or 2.5 mm diameter trocar port
Solution Approach 1:
The applier utilizes a collapsible or compressible mechanism that allows it to be inserted through a 5 mm or 2.5 mm trocar port in a compressed state and then deploy the clip effectively. The spring action enables the applier to maintain its functional diameter only when needed for clip application, not during insertion.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides consistent and uniform ligation force, reduces the risk of clip slippage, and allows for smaller trocar port usage, enhancing the precision and minimally invasive nature of surgical procedures while minimizing tissue damage and improving visibility.
Implementation Method 1
a ligation clip resiliently biased to a closed position
Implementation Method 2
upper and lower compression members proximate the distal end of the apparatus, each of the upper and lower compression members having a clamping surface for contacting the fluid carrying structure
Data Source
AI summary
A ligation clip applicator design is provided that is particularly applicable to placement of a surgical ligation clip during a laparoscopic surgical procedure. The applicator has a magazine including first and second longitudinally extending partially closed channels within which enlarged portions of a ligation clip are received and held in an open position. First and second substantially parallel compression members are attached to the magazine and have first and second channel extensions therein aligned with the first and second channels of the magazine for receiving the first and second enlarged portions of the clip. The channel extensions include first and second releasing openings. The compression members close about a vessel, remaining substantially parallel as they close. The clip is pushed forward into the compression members to a position where the enlarged portions of the clip are aligned with the releasing openings, permitting the clip to be released to close and ligate the vessel.