Reinforced Deformable Anvil Tip for Surgical Stapler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical stapling and cutting instruments face challenges in efficiently stapling and cutting tissue due to limitations in staple cartridge design, anvil configuration, and tissue stability features, leading to inconsistent tissue handling and staple deployment.
Innovation Solution
The development of advanced surgical stapling systems with interchangeable shaft assemblies and end effectors that incorporate improved staple cartridges, anvil designs, and tissue stability features, such as articulation joints and closure members, to enhance staple deployment and tissue handling precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid anvil tip is used to maintain structural integrity, then strength is improved, but deformability under staple loading deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The anvil tip transitions from a rigid structure to a deformable structure by changing material properties or structural parameters, allowing it to elastically deform under staple loading forces and then return to its original shape, thereby accommodating staple formation while maintaining overall structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The anvil tip may be constructed using composite materials that combine high strength properties with controlled deformability, enabling it to withstand structural loads while allowing necessary deformation during the stapling process
2Manufacturing precision
If the anvil tip is made deformable to accommodate staple loading, then tissue handling precision is improved, but structural integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The anvil tip is designed with specific material parameters or structural configurations that enable controlled elastic deformation within a defined range, allowing precise staple formation through consistent deformation behavior while maintaining sufficient structural strength
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable anvil tip acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes staple loading forces through elastic deformation, protecting the overall anvil structure from excessive stresses while ensuring precise staple formation during the surgical procedure
3Device complexity
If conventional anvil designs are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but tissue stability and staple deployment consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The anvil tip incorporates specific geometric parameters, material properties, or structural configurations that enhance tissue stability and staple deployment consistency while maintaining a relatively simple overall design that integrates into existing surgical stapler systems
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
These advancements enable more precise and efficient stapling and cutting of tissue, improving staple formation and reducing tissue trauma, thereby enhancing surgical outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
A reinforced deformable anvil tip for a surgical stapler anvil is disclosed. The anvil tip may be configured to elastically deform during stapling
Data Source
AI summary
An anvil for a surgical stapler. In various arrangements, the anvil comprises an anvil body that is fabricated from a first material and a tip member that is fabricated from a second material that differs from the first material. The tip member may comprise a flexible attachment portion that is configured to be received within an opening in a distal end of the anvil body. A second attachment member is configured to non-removably engage the first flexible attachment portion to bias the first flexible attachment portion into retaining engagement with corresponding portions of the distal end of the anvil body.