Reusable Endoscopic Clip for Tissue Ligature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic clip devices for the gastrointestinal tract lack the ability to be opened and closed multiple times, limiting flexibility and visibility during procedures, especially in emergency situations like bleeding or perforations.
Innovation Solution
A clip apparatus that can be repeatedly opened and closed, allowing for adjustable placement on tissue before being locked in place, featuring a clip unit with spring arms, a tightening ring, and a control wire mechanism for precise deployment and locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing endoscopic clip devices are used, then the procedure can be completed, but the device cannot be opened and closed multiple times, limiting flexibility and visibility during procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The clip device is divided into distinct functional segments: a reusable outer catheter assembly and a disposable clip unit. The clip unit itself is segmented into spring arms, a body, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows the complex locking functionality to be isolated in the disposable portion while keeping the expensive reusable portion simple, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip incorporates dynamic elements including spring-loaded arms that can be compressed and released, and a control wire mechanism that enables remote actuation of the locking function. The spring arms provide automatic return to open position, while the control wire allows the operator to lock the clip in place after positioning, enabling multiple open-close cycles before final deployment.
2Reliability
If the clip is closed immediately upon placement, then bleeding or perforation is stopped, but the user cannot adjust the placement or wash the area to improve visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is designed to be pre-loaded in a closed state within the catheter, then automatically opened upon deployment. This preliminary preparation allows the operator to first position the clip, wash the area for better visibility, and adjust placement before the clip automatically closes to achieve hemostasis, thus maintaining both reliability and reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The control wire acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the clip locking function. By pulling the control wire, the operator can lock the clip in place after positioning but before final closure, allowing time for area washing and visibility improvement without delaying the ultimate hemostatic effect.
3Ease of operation
If a single-use clip is used, then the procedure is simple, but the clip cannot be adjusted or repositioned once closed
Solution Approach 1:
The clip incorporates dynamic elements including spring-loaded arms that can be compressed and released, and a control wire mechanism that enables remote actuation of the locking function. The spring arms provide automatic return to open position, while the control wire allows the operator to lock the clip in place after positioning, enabling multiple open-close cycles before final deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable clip unit concentrates all adjustment and locking functionality in its local structure, with the spring arms and control wire interface designed to provide multiple open-close cycles. This localized complexity in the disposable portion enables full adjustability without complicating the reusable catheter assembly, maintaining ease of overall operation while providing placement adaptability.
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
Enhances procedural flexibility by enabling multiple adjustments for precise placement and secure closure of the clip on tissue, facilitating rapid intervention in emergencies like bleeding or perforations within the GI tract.
Implementation Method 1
The clip includes two arms that are biased outwardly
Implementation Method 2
a control wire mechanism for precise deployment and locking
Data Source
AI summary
A clip apparatus for ligature of living tissue is provided. The clip apparatus includes a clip that can be opened and closed multiple times prior to locking in a closed position on the tissue.