Reverse Seam Ripper Dissector Tool Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive surgical procedures require surgeons to switch between multiple instruments for dissecting and cutting tissue, prolonging the surgical duration due to the need for separate tools for each function.
Innovation Solution
A single surgical instrument with a tool assembly that includes a projection member for dissecting and a cutting member, pivotally connected to an actuation rod, and a sheath that can be moved between retracted and extended positions to expose or protect the cutting member, allowing for both functions to be performed with a single instrument.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate instruments are used for dissecting and cutting tissue, then each function can be performed with a specialized tool, but the surgical procedure duration increases due to instrument switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a dissector and cutting member into a single integrated tool assembly. The tool assembly includes a coupling member that can be selectively coupled to either a dissector or cutting member, allowing both functions to be performed with one instrument rather than requiring multiple separate instruments and frequent switching during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool assembly is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple functions. The coupling member can be selectively coupled to different tool portions (dissector or cutting member), enabling the same base instrument to serve both dissection and cutting purposes, thereby reducing the number of instruments needed and eliminating switching time.
2Productivity
If a single instrument performs both dissecting and cutting functions, then the surgical procedure duration is reduced, but the instrument structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is segmented into modular components: a tool assembly base (coupling member) that can be selectively coupled to different tool portions (dissector or cutting member). This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be distributed across separate, manageable components that can be independently selected and coupled, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining multi-functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument incorporates dynamic selectability where the coupling member can be selectively coupled to different tool portions based on the surgical task. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the instrument to adapt its configuration during procedures, providing functional versatility without requiring a permanently complex fixed structure.
3Ease of operation
If the cutting member is always exposed, then cutting operations can be performed immediately, but the projection member cannot be protected during insertion and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The tool portion (either dissector or cutting member) is nested within the sheath when not in use. The sheath can be extended to cover and protect the tool portion during insertion and removal operations, preventing tissue trauma. When cutting is needed, the tool portion can be exposed from within the sheath, allowing immediate cutting operations without permanent exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath is designed to be movable between extended and retracted positions, providing dynamic protection. The sheath can be extended to protect the tool portion during insertion and removal, then retracted to expose the tool portion for cutting operations, allowing the system to adapt its protective state based on the surgical task.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes an elongate body defining a longitudinal axis, an actuation rod extending through the elongate body and a tool assembly coupled to the elongate body. The tool assembly includes a coupling member coupling the tool assembly to the elongate body and a tool portion pivotally associated with the coupling member. The tool portion includes a projection member including a blunt end portion and a cutting member extending distally outward from the projection member. The tool portion is operatively coupled to the actuation rod. Translation of the actuation rod causes pivotal movement of the tool assembly.