Steerable Overtube with Shape Locking and Oversized Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopes have limitations such as restricted access due to large image and light carrying elements, inability to pass through smaller bodily lumens, and lack of mechanisms for securing the endoscope shaft, which restricts the introduction and manipulation of multiple or larger medical devices during minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A steerable overtube with an oversized accessory channel, a shape locking mechanism, multiple accessory channels, a fixation mechanism for securing the overtube, and a distal anchoring device that allows for bending and securing of medical devices, enabling the introduction of larger devices and improved leverage and stability during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If image and light carrying elements are included in the endoscope shaft, then visual access capability is provided, but the cross-sectional area available for other components is severely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the visual access function into a removable fiber optic device that can be detached from the delivery system. This segmentation allows the main shaft to have a smaller cross-sectional area optimized for device delivery, while the optional fiber optic component provides visual access capability when needed but can be removed to maximize space for other components.
2Quantity of substance
If the endoscope shaft size is increased to accommodate multiple or larger working channels, then more medical devices can be introduced, but the device cannot pass through smaller bodily lumens
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a shape-locking mechanism that allows the shaft to dynamically change its configuration. The shaft can be locked into different shapes and angles, enabling it to navigate through tortuous anatomy and smaller lumens while maintaining the capability to deliver multiple or larger devices through its working channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber optic device can be introduced through the working channel of the delivery system and then extended beyond the distal end for use. This nesting approach allows the visual access component to be stored within the delivery catheter when not in use, minimizing the overall size requirements.
3Device complexity
If the endoscope shaft lacks a shape maintenance mechanism, then the device is simpler to manufacture, but it cannot secure the position of the shaft relative to the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The shape-locking mechanism allows the operator to pre-establish the desired shaft configuration before advancing medical devices. By locking the shaft into position in advance, the system provides stable support and leverage for subsequent device manipulation without requiring continuous adjustment during the procedure.
Data Source
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AI summary
A steerable overtube is provided having an elongate shaft comprising an oversized accessory channel that is configured for the introduction and advancement of elongate medical devices having relatively large cross-sections. The distal end of the overtube shaft is bendable or deflectable in at least one direction, and is preferably includes a shape locking mechanism for temporarily maintaining the shape of the distal end of the overtube shaft. An oversized accessory channel is provided. The overtube may also include a fixation mechanism for securing the proximal end and/or distal end of the overtube against movement relative to the patient. A fiber optic elongate medical device is provided for use with the steerable overtube of the present invention.