Segmented Simulated Tissue Model for Laparoscopic Suturing Practice

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical training models lack realistic simulation of anatomical structures and procedures, particularly for laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgeries, making it difficult for trainees to practice and perfect skills like suturing and stapling in a controlled, repeatable, and cost-effective manner.

Innovation Solution

A surgical training device featuring a simulated tissue model with a tubular form and holder configuration that mimics the vaginal cuff, allowing for realistic practice of suturing and stapling procedures, with adjustable and reusable components to simulate various tissue thicknesses and anatomical conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If simulated tissue models are used for laparoscopic training, then trainees can practice procedures in a controlled and repeatable manner, but the models must realistically simulate anatomical structures and tissue properties to be effective

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetraining effectivenessVSAvoidanatomical simulation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The simulated tissue model is divided into multiple distinct layers including skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle, fascia, and organ layers. Each layer is separately constructed with appropriate materials to replicate specific tissue properties, allowing realistic anatomical simulation while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different materials are used to construct various tissue layers, with each material selected to mimic the specific mechanical and physical properties of the corresponding anatomical structure. This composite approach enables realistic tissue simulation without requiring a single complex material

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Manufacturing precision

If realistic anatomical structures are simulated, then suturing and stapling skills can be practiced with high fidelity, but the cost and complexity of the training model increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanatomical structure accuracyVSAvoidmodel construction simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The anatomical model is constructed by segmenting different tissue types into separate layers that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This allows each layer to be optimized for its specific tissue representation while simplifying the overall manufacturing process through modular construction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions and layers of the model have locally optimized properties matching specific anatomical structures. Each tissue layer is constructed with materials and characteristics appropriate to its specific anatomical counterpart, providing manufacturing precision where needed without uniformly increasing complexity throughout the entire model

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If the training model simulates real tissue properties including thickness and consistency variations, then surgical skills can be better prepared, but the model becomes more difficult to standardize and reproduce

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetissue condition simulationVSAvoidmodel consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The model uses segmented layers with controlled thickness variations to simulate different tissue conditions. Each layer can be manufactured with specified thickness ranges to represent normal, thickened, or pathological tissue states, providing adaptability while maintaining compositional stability through standardized layer construction protocols

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 the skill levels of surgeons by providing a realistic and repeatable training environment for laparoscopic procedures, improving precision and efficiency in suturing and stapling techniques while reducing training costs.

Implementation Method 1

The simulated tissue structure is compressible to close the lumen opening

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS11514819B2Surgical training model for laparoscopic procedures

Publication Date: 2022.11.29 APPL MEDICAL RESOURCES CORP

AI summary

A surgical training model that includes a simulated tissue having a tubular shape that is connected to a tissue holder is provided. A portion of the simulated tissue overhangs the distal end of the tissue holder to simulate a cuff-like entry to the vaginal vault or resected intestine suitable for practicing laparoscopic closure of the vaginal vault, intestine or other organ via suturing or stapling. Two concentric tubular structures are also arranged over the same tissue holder. A second model includes two portions of simulated tissue that are held by two holders such that the simulated tissues are adjacent making the model suitable for practicing different types of anastomosis procedures. A third model includes two holders with a single or double tubular simulated tissue structure connected to and spanning a gap between the holders. The model isolates the step of closing a cylindrical opening for the purpose of repeated practice.