Robotic Uterine Manipulation System for Minimally Invasive Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual uterine manipulation techniques in minimally invasive hysterectomies are physically demanding and lack precision, as surgeons must manually position the uterus, often at awkward angles, which can lead to difficulties in surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A robotic anatomical manipulation system comprising a remote machine with a mobile base, an extension arm, and a control console that allows precise positioning and rotation of the uterus using an end effector, enabling surgeons to control the anatomy from a distance, reducing physical strain and improving precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual uterine manipulation techniques are used, then the surgeon can directly control the uterus, but the procedure becomes physically demanding and lacks precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical manipulation with a robotic system that uses electric motors and computer-controlled mechanisms to position and manipulate the uterus. The robotic arm with articulated joints and end effector substitutes the surgeon's hands, eliminating physical strain while providing precise, programmable control through a control console.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system acts as an intermediary between the surgeon and the uterus. The surgeon operates the system from a control console, and the robotic arm translates these commands into precise movements of the end effector, which then manipulates the uterus. This intermediary mechanism enables precise control without direct physical contact by the surgeon.
2Ease of operation
If manual manipulation is performed at awkward angles, then the surgeon can access the surgical site, but the procedure becomes difficult and less precise
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm features articulated joints with multiple degrees of freedom that allow dynamic adjustment of the end effector's position and orientation. The system can adapt to various surgical configurations and access angles, maintaining precision regardless of the required approach angle through real-time mechanical adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system adds dimensional flexibility by using a multi-jointed arm that can move in multiple axes (X, Y, Z translations and rotations). This enables the end effector to reach surgical sites from optimal angles that would be inaccessible or difficult to achieve with manual manipulation, transforming the surgical approach into three-dimensional space.
3Measurement precision
If a robotic system is implemented, then positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is designed as a multi-functional platform that can perform various surgical manipulation tasks through a single integrated system. The articulated arm with multiple joints and a programmable end effector can execute different surgical procedures and positioning requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining high precision.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides, in various embodiments, systems and methods for robotic manipulation of a patient's anatomy, such as the uterus, during minimally invasive surgical procedures.