Powered Surgical Stapler Articulation for Precise Tissue Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical stapling and cutting instruments face challenges in accurately positioning and maneuvering end effectors to staple and cut tissue, particularly in minimally invasive procedures, due to limitations in articulation and power operation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical stapling instrument with a modular end effector and shaft assembly that includes dual articulation joints and powered actuators, allowing for precise articulation and operation of the end effector in multiple planes, and is compatible with both manual and robotic surgical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual surgical stapling instruments are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the precision and ease of operation in positioning and maneuvering end effectors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with powered actuators (motors) to drive the end effector articulation and firing mechanisms. This substitution enables more precise control through electronic actuation while reducing the mechanical complexity of manual linkages and adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces powered actuators that enable dynamic adjustment of articulation angles and end effector positioning parameters. This allows for programmable precision in positioning the end effector at specific angles and locations, overcoming the limitations of fixed manual positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dual articulation joints with powered actuators are added, then the versatility and precision of end effector maneuvering is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the powered surgical instrument with dual articulation joints that enable the end effector to operate in multiple planes and orientations. This multi-functional capability allows a single device to perform various surgical tasks requiring different articulation angles and positions, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple separate instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates powered actuators that enable dynamic adjustment of articulation joints during the surgical procedure. This allows the end effector to be maneuvered into optimal positions adaptively, providing real-time versatility in handling different tissue types and surgical requirements.
3Ease of operation
If powered actuators are integrated into the shaft assembly, then the ease of operation and precision in stapling and cutting is improved, but the weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with powered actuators integrated into the shaft assembly. This substitution improves ease of operation by enabling electrically-driven articulation and firing mechanisms, reducing the physical effort required by the surgeon while managing the added weight through efficient motor selection and integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical stapling assembly is disclosed. The surgical stapling assembly can include a first jaw, a second jaw, an articulation joint, a closure drive comprising a first flexible rotary drive extending through the articulation joint, and a firing drive comprising a second flexible rotary drive extending through the articulation joint and rotatable independent of the first flexible rotary drive. The surgical stapling assembly can further include a 3D-printed component.