Recapturable LAA Clip Delivery for Precise Occlusion Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical methods for occluding the left atrial appendage (LAA) face challenges such as the need for precise placement of exclusion clips, difficulty in determining complete closure, requirement of separate stabilization instruments, and limitations in clip design that restrict flexibility and clamping pressure, leading to potential complications and risks.
Innovation Solution
A recapturable external LAA exclusion clip system with a delivery device that allows for one-handed operation, provides positive indication of complete clip placement, and includes a closed-loop design with adjustable clamping pressure, eliminating the need for separate stabilization tools and enabling repositioning or removal of the clip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate stabilization instrument is used to hold the LAA during clip application, then the LAA can be stabilized for precise clip placement, but the surgical procedure becomes more complex and requires additional instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device integrates both stabilization and clip application functions into a single instrument. The jaw assembly can grasp and stabilize the LAA while the exclusion clip is being positioned and applied, eliminating the need for a separate stabilization instrument and reducing procedural complexity
2Reliability
If a closed-loop exclusion clip design is used, then the clip can provide continuous clamping pressure and ensure complete closure, but the clip cannot be easily opened for repositioning or removal
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device maintains a dynamic connection with the exclusion clip through the lockable jaw assembly. The clip remains in a controllable state during application, can be locked in place when properly positioned, and can be unlocked and opened if repositioning or removal is needed, providing both reliability and operational flexibility
3Reliability
If the exclusion clip is applied with high clamping pressure, then complete occlusion of the LAA is achieved, but tissue damage and complications may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides adjustable clamping pressure that can be optimized to achieve effective LAA occlusion while minimizing excessive force. The spring's mechanical properties can be designed to provide sufficient compression for complete closure without causing tissue damage, and the gradual application of pressure allows for controlled force distribution
4Measurement precision
If the clip delivery device requires two-handed operation, then precise control is maintained, but surgical efficiency and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device is designed with a trigger mechanism that integrates multiple functions including jaw actuation, clip release, and potential stabilization control into a single-handed operation interface. This allows the surgeon to maintain precise control over the clip application while improving surgical efficiency by freeing the other hand for additional tasks or better ergonomics
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 system enhances precision and control over clip application, reduces the risk of complications by ensuring complete closure and minimizing tissue damage, and allows for repositioning without additional instruments, thereby improving surgical efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism that stores and releases energy to apply clamping pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
A recapturable external LAA exclusion clip system includes a clip comprising first and second clip struts, at least one of the struts having a connector interface comprising a first portion of a lock, and a delivery device comprising a handle and an end effector. The handle comprises jaw and lock controls. The end effector is connected to the handle and comprises a clevis and first and second jaws. The jaws are connected to the clevis and operatively connected to the jaw control to actively articulate at least one of the jaws with respect to the other. At least one of the jaws has a connector comprising a second portion of the lock operatively connected to the lock control to removably lock with the first portion of the lock. The first and second portions of the lock have a locked state and are configured to unlock the locked state upon actuation of the lock control.