Self-Inserting Specimen Retrieval Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laparoscopic surgery requires multiple trocars, leading to larger incisions, increased scarring, and potential complications, especially in procedures like cholecystectomy, where a single incision or reduced trocar size is desired to minimize trauma and recovery time.
Innovation Solution
A self-inserting specimen retrieval assembly that deploys a specimen retrieval bag without the need for a trocar, allowing for reduced incision size and number, utilizing a housing with a deployment mechanism that includes a rod and support means to expand the bag within the body cavity for specimen collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple trocars are used for specimen retrieval, then the specimen can be removed, but the incision size and number increase leading to more scarring and complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple trocars (specimen retrieval and bag deployment) into a single integrated device. The self-inserting device delivers the specimen retrieval bag through one incision, eliminating the need for separate trocars and reducing scarring and complications while maintaining specimen removal capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single self-inserting device performs multiple functions: it acts as both the delivery mechanism for the specimen retrieval bag and the deployment mechanism. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate instruments and trocars needed, thereby reducing incisions and associated harm.
2Ease of operation
If a larger trocar is used for specimen retrieval, then the specimen can be removed easily, but the incision size increases leading to more trauma and longer recovery
Solution Approach 1:
The specimen retrieval bag is nested within the self-inserting device housing. The bag is delivered through the housing in a compact state and then deployed within the body cavity. This nesting allows the bag to be delivered through a small incision while still providing adequate space for specimen retrieval once deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a compact linear configuration during delivery to an expanded three-dimensional configuration during deployment. The housing and bag expand within the body cavity, providing the necessary working space without requiring a large incision, thus reducing trauma while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A specimen retrieval assembly including a housing containing a specimen retrieval bag and pliable spring, a distal end including a non-blunt tip, and a deployment mechanism. The specimen retrieval bag is moved from the stowed position within a hollow housing to a deployed position by slicing a rod from a retracted position partially within the hollow housing to an extended position that projects at least partially out of the hollow housing. Two portions of a flexible support ring unfold under spring bias from a folding position as the rod enters the extended position to open a mouth of the specimen retrieval bag. The distal end of the assembly has a non-blunt tip which is shaped to puncture human skin.