Multi-Channel Steering Handle for In-Situ Laser Fiber Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ureteroscopy procedures for kidney stones are associated with increased discomfort due to prolonged ureteroscope occupation, necessitating a solution to reduce procedural time and trauma to the patient.
Innovation Solution
A steering handle with a manifold that enables in-situ reconfiguration of a laser fiber optic between irrigation and aspiration channels, allowing simultaneous use of multiple working devices and quick adjustments to maintain balanced fluid flows, reducing the need for external reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ureteroscope is used for laser lithotripsy procedures, then stone-free rates are improved, but procedural time and patient discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is designed with dynamically switchable flow paths that allow real-time reconfiguration between irrigation and aspiration modes. Valves within the manifold enable the operator to switch between different fluid flow configurations (irrigation-only, aspiration-only, or simultaneous) without removing the catheter from the patient, thereby reducing procedural time while maintaining stone-free rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by allowing the laser fiber optic to be repositioned between different working channels (irrigation channel and aspiration channel) through the manifold's flow control mechanisms. This enables parameter adjustments in fluid flow distribution and channel utilization to optimize both stone-free rates and procedural efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the laser fiber optic is repositioned between working channels, then flow balance and operational flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is designed as a multi-functional component that handles multiple operations: it controls fluid flow between irrigation and aspiration channels, positions the laser fiber optic in different working channels, and maintains system connectivity without requiring external reconfiguration. This universal design achieves operational flexibility while consolidating complexity into a single integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold acts as an intermediary component between the catheter, working channels, and external systems. It mediates the repositioning of the laser fiber optic and the switching of fluid flows, providing a centralized control mechanism that simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling versatile operational modes.
3Productivity
If multiple working devices are used simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold incorporates flow control mechanisms that provide feedback on fluid flow status to the operator. This enables real-time monitoring and adjustment of irrigation and aspiration flows to maintain proper balance, even when multiple working devices are used simultaneously, thereby improving productivity without compromising flow management.
Data Source
AI summary
Steering handles with manifolds that enable an operator to configure an endoscopic system in situ for a variety of tasks, including irrigation, aspiration, or both. In addition, the disclosed endoscopic systems facilitate rapid reconfiguration of the location of a laser fiber optic within a catheter assembly. The laser fiber optic, for example, can be removed from an irrigation channel of the endoscopic system and reinserted in the aspiration channel during a laser lithotripsy procedure. In some embodiments, the removal and reinsertion can be performed in situ, without removing the catheter from the patient or the treated organ. These aspects of the disclosed system reduce the time required to perform laser lithotripsy procedures, with less trauma to the patient.