Steerable Airway Visualization Handle for Single-Operator Intubation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical visualization systems, such as laryngoscopes and endoscopes, require multiple caregivers to operate simultaneously, leading to inefficiencies and difficulties in navigating and steering instruments due to limited space and the need for separate displays, making intubation and other airway procedures cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional visualization instrument that integrates laryngoscope and endoscope functionalities into a single device, allowing a single operator to control and visualize both instruments simultaneously on an integrated display, with a steerable introducer and interchangeable components for enhanced maneuverability and real-time image display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple caregivers operate laryngoscope and endoscope simultaneously, then comprehensive airway visualization and instrument control are achieved, but operational complexity and procedural inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laryngoscope and endoscope functionalities into a single integrated device. The laryngoscope handle incorporates both a laryngoscope camera for visualizing the upper airway and an endoscope camera for deeper airway visualization, with both cameras' images displayed simultaneously on a single display screen. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate devices and operators while maintaining comprehensive visualization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions through a single system. The laryngoscope handle can simultaneously capture images from both laryngoscope and endoscope cameras, process both video feeds, and display both views on one screen. The single operator can control both visualization functions through one unified interface, making the device universal for both laryngoscopy and endoscopy procedures.
2Loss of information
If separate displays are used for laryngoscope and endoscope, then complete visualization information is provided, but space requirements and maneuverability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the display functions of separate laryngoscope and endoscope monitors into a single integrated display screen. The display controller divides the screen to show both laryngoscope and endoscope video feeds simultaneously, providing complete visualization information without requiring multiple separate displays. This reduces the physical space needed while maintaining full visual information availability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid laryngoscope blades are used, then structural stability is maintained, but maneuverability and steering capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic steering capability to the laryngoscope blade through an articulation mechanism controlled by a steering input device. The laryngoscope blade can be dynamically adjusted in orientation and angle during the procedure, allowing the operator to steer the blade tip to navigate around anatomical structures. This maintains the structural stability of the rigid blade while adding operational flexibility and ease of maneuverability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical visualization system, comprises an introducer comprising an articulating distal end; and a laryngoscope handle, comprising a body, a display screen mounted to the body, a laryngoscope camera producing a laryngoscope image displayed on the display screen, a steering input indicated on the display screen for steering the articulating distal end of the introducer, and a connector removably coupling the introducer to the laryngoscope handle and communicating steering controls to the introducer.