Stabilizable Articulation Actuator for Electrosurgical Instrument
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laparoscopic electrosurgical instruments face challenges in manipulatability and range of motion, limiting the precision and effectiveness of surgical procedures due to constrained spatial environments.
Innovation Solution
An articulable electrosurgical instrument with a stabilizable articulation actuator and articulable joint, allowing for angular movement of the end effector within a 90-degree arc, facilitated by pivotable links and force transfer cables, enables surgeons to apply lateral forces without manual locking, stabilizing the end effector at desired angles for enhanced maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an articulable joint is added to enable angular movement of the end effector, then the range of motion and manipulatability are improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components like pivotable links and actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizable articulation actuator is disposed within the shaft of the electrosurgical instrument, nesting the actuation mechanism inside the existing structure. This allows the articulation functionality to be integrated without significantly increasing the external dimensions or overall complexity of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizable articulation actuator serves multiple functions: it enables angular movement of the end effector, stabilizes the articulation at desired angles, and can be operated independently of other instrument functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Measurement precision
If a stabilizable articulation actuator is implemented to lock the end effector at desired angles, then the surgical precision and control are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the additional manual locking and unlocking actions required
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizable articulation actuator is designed to maintain stabilization of the articulable joint without requiring continuous manual intervention. Once the surgeon positions the end effector at the desired angle, the actuator holds it there automatically, freeing the surgeon's hands for other surgical tasks without requiring frequent manual locking and unlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator uses a motorized or automated mechanism to replace manual mechanical locking operations. This substitution reduces the physical effort and dexterity required from the surgeon while maintaining precise angular positioning of the end effector.
3Reliability
If the articulation actuator is made stabilizable to prevent motion during surgical operations, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to the additional steps needed to engage and disengage stabilization
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizable articulation actuator is configured to automatically engage stabilization before the surgeon begins critical surgical maneuvers. The system prepares the articulation for stabilization in advance, so when the surgeon needs precise positioning, the mechanism is already ready to lock without requiring complex real-time adjustments during the procedure.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the technology provide an articulable electrosurgical instrument and methods of performing electrosurgery with an articulating capability. The electrosurgical instrument includes an elongated shaft having an end effector associated with a distal end thereof that is able to deliver energy to a target tissue site. An articulable joint is positioned between that shaft and the end effector. Articulation of the articulable joint is controlled by a stabilizable articulation actuator, which may include a rotatably stabilizable disk residing within a well. The end effector may take the form of forceps including an upper and a lower jaw; the jaws are configured to grasp target tissue and to deliver energy, such as radiofrequency energy. In some of these instruments, the end effector is adapted to seal tissue by the application of radiofrequency energy, and then to cut through the sealed tissue portion.