Surgical Stapling Device Grasping Jaw Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopic and laparoscopic surgical procedures require a device that can seamlessly transition between grasping and stapling modes without the need for additional instruments, as existing devices necessitate the removal or use of a separate grasper, limiting access and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A surgical stapling device with a handle assembly and tool assembly that includes an anvil and cartridge assembly, capable of moving between open and closed positions, featuring a mode selection mechanism with a switch and pawl system to alternate between grasping and clamping modes, allowing the device to function as both a stapler and a grasper.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate grasper is used to manipulate tissue during endoscopic procedures, then tissue manipulation capability is improved, but the number of instruments required increases and access through small cannulas is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the grasper and stapler functions into a single integrated device. The tool assembly includes both a grasper with opposing grasping jaws and a stapler with anvil and cartridge, allowing both tissue manipulation and stapling to be performed by one instrument rather than requiring separate tools
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can grasp and manipulate tissue using the grasper jaws, then transition to stapling mode to secure the tissue with staples. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized instruments during the procedure
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device transitions between grasping and stapling modes, then versatility is improved, but the complexity of the control mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic mode selection mechanism where a mode selection cam transitions between different positions to enable either grasping or stapling mode. The actuation shaft and associated linkages dynamically reconfigure the tool assembly based on the selected mode, allowing flexible operation without permanent complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary components such as the mode selection cam, actuation shaft, and various linkages that mediate between the user's input and the tool assembly's response. These intermediaries translate simple user actions into the appropriate mode changes and tool movements, managing complexity through well-defined mechanical interfaces
3Reliability
If the anvil and cartridge are locked in closed position for stapling, then stapling reliability is improved, but the ability to switch back to grasping mode is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed for periodic or sequential operation where the user selects either grasping or stapling mode for a given procedure step. The mode selection mechanism allows the device to be reliably locked in the appropriate mode during use, with the understanding that mode changes occur in discrete steps rather than continuously
Solution Approach 2:
The tissue is manipulated and positioned into the tool assembly while in grasping mode before the mode change occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the device transitions to stapling mode with the anvil and cartridge locked in closed position, the tissue is already correctly positioned for stapling, eliminating the need to switch modes after clamping
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical device includes a handle assembly, an elongated member, and a tool assembly. The handle assembly includes a mode selection mechanism configured to alternate the surgical device between a grasping mode of operation and a clamping mode of operation. The tool assembly includes a cartridge assembly having a plurality of staples and an anvil assembly. The tool assembly is configured to grasp and release tissue in the grasping mode of operation and configured to clamp and staple tissue in the clamping mode of operation. The mode selection mechanism includes a switch and a pawl. When a moveable handle of the handle assembly is compressed with the switch held in a depressed position, the device is in the grasping mode of operation. When the moveable handle is compressed with the switch in a neutral position, the device is in the clamping mode of operation.