Surgical Stapler Distal Tip Locking for Multi-Fire Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical staplers lack the capability for quick and precise adjustment of the distal tip position during surgical procedures, particularly in multi-firing scenarios where multiple firings are necessary along a continuous path.
Innovation Solution
The surgical stapler is designed with an articulation joint and end effector that allows for remote articulation and deflection of the end effector relative to the shaft, enabling precise adjustment of the distal tip position, and includes features such as angled anvil jaws and elastic deformable tips to facilitate better maneuverability and visibility at the surgical site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the distal tip position is adjusted by removing and repositioning the entire end effector, then the position can be changed, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is divided into modular components: a stationary base portion and a movable distal tip portion. The distal tip can be independently repositioned relative to the base without removing the entire end effector from the surgical site. This segmentation allows quick adjustment of only the necessary component (distal tip) while maintaining the stable base connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal tip is designed with dynamic repositioning capability through articulated joints and movable connection mechanisms. The distal tip can be selectively repositioned to multiple discrete positions along the longitudinal axis during the surgical procedure, transforming a static structure into a dynamically adjustable one that adapts to surgical needs without requiring complete removal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the distal tip is made fixed and rigid, then the structure is simple and stable, but the ability to adjust position during surgery is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector structure is segmented into a stationary base portion and a separable distal tip portion. This segmentation allows the distal tip to be independently adjusted or repositioned without affecting the stability of the base connection to the actuator, enabling adaptability while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal tip is extracted as a separate, repositionable component from the fixed base structure. This extraction allows the distal tip to be selectively removed, repositioned, or articulated relative to the base, providing adaptability while keeping the base structure simple and stable.
3Productivity
If multiple sequential firings are performed along a continuous path, then the surgical procedure is completed, but the need to remove and reposition the end effector for each firing increases complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The distal tip incorporates dynamic repositioning mechanisms that allow it to be quickly adjusted to multiple discrete positions along the longitudinal axis without removing the entire end effector. This dynamic capability enables multiple sequential firings along a continuous surgical path while maintaining a simple base connection, thereby improving productivity without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal tip can be self-adjusted or easily repositioned by the surgeon during the procedure through simple manual manipulation or actuation mechanisms integrated into the design. This self-service capability allows quick repositioning for multiple firings without requiring complex external intervention or complete removal of the end effector.
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
Enables quick and precise adjustment of the distal tip position, improving the ability to manipulate and fire staples accurately along a continuous path, enhancing surgical precision and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
elastic deformable tips to facilitate better maneuverability and visibility at the surgical site
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a first jaw (16) and a second jaw (618, 718, 900) that cooperate to clamp and staple tissue (90). The second jaw includes a jaw body (620, 720, 902, 1202) and a distal tip (619, 719, 906, 1206) pivotable relative to the jaw body between a first discrete and a second discrete position. First and second openings (663, 784, 785, 932, 934, 1208, 1210) are both defined by one of the distal tip or a structure (621, 920, 1212) located proximal to the distal tip. A projection (637, 781, 918, 1214) is defined by the other of the distal tip or the structure. The projection is positionable within the first opening (663, 785, 932, 1208) to releasably retain the distal tip in the first discrete position, and within the second opening (663, 784, 934, 1210) to releasably retain the distal tip in the second discrete position.