Laparoscopic Retrieval Bag With Lifting Bands for Specimen Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscopic tissue retrieval bags struggle to efficiently position the tissue specimen close to the minimally invasive incision for easy cutting and retraction, often requiring cumbersome manual manipulation and risking damage to the bag during specimen extraction.
Innovation Solution
A tissue retrieval bag equipped with lifting members, such as elastic bands, that can be deployed within the bag wall to lift the closed end towards the open end, allowing for controlled elevation and secure cutting of the specimen through the incision, using a support ring to maintain the open end and guide channels to prevent slippage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual manipulation is used to position the tissue specimen, then the specimen can be moved toward the incision, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The retrieval bag is equipped with lifting members (elastic bands) that automatically lift the closed end and tissue specimen toward the open end without requiring manual manipulation. The elastic bands self-expand to elevate the specimen, making the system self-serving and eliminating the need for cumbersome manual positioning operations.
2Ease of operation
If the closed end is lifted toward the open end, then the specimen is positioned closer to the incision, but the bag may become damaged or its integrity compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retrieval bag is constructed from flexible polymeric thin film material that can accommodate the lifting action of the elastic bands without damage. The flexible nature of the thin film allows the bag to expand and contract dynamically during the lifting process while maintaining its structural integrity and containing the specimen securely.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting members are designed with controlled elastic force to gently elevate the specimen without applying excessive stress that could damage the bag. The system is pre-configured to lift the specimen progressively rather than abruptly, cushioning the mechanical interaction between the lifting members and the bag wall to prevent damage.
3Measurement precision
If multiple lifting members are used to lift the closed end, then the specimen can be positioned more precisely, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting function is segmented into multiple independent elastic bands distributed around the retrieval bag. Each band acts as an independent lifting member that can be individually activated or adjusted, allowing precise control over the lifting action and specimen positioning while keeping each individual component simple.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple lifting members are integrated into a unified retrieval bag system where the bands work together cooperatively. The lifting members are combined with the bag structure through guide channels and attachment points, creating a coordinated system that achieves precise positioning without the complexity of independent control mechanisms for each band.
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
Facilitates efficient and controlled cutting and retraction of the tissue specimen by maintaining the bag's integrity and orientation, reducing the risk of damage and expanding the incision size, enabling simultaneous lifting of multiple bands for precise specimen manipulation.
Implementation Method 1
one or more of the plurality of lifting members are at least partly elastic
Data Source
AI summary
A laparoscopic tissue retrieval bag for minimally invasive surgery and comprising a high-strength, biocompatible film wall that is transparent or translucent. The retrieval bag wall is collapsible and crushable for ease of insertion through a laparoscopic cannula. The retrieval bag further comprises a plurality of lifting band or elements in the retrieval bag wall and extending from the open proximal end towards the closed distal end.