Suction Coagulator Needle Electrode Dissection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrosurgical suction coagulators lack precision in tissue dissection and are prone to clogging due to their ring-like electrode design, which obstructs 360-degree operation and requires frequent cleaning, making them cumbersome and difficult to use during laparoscopic procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical coagulator with an elongated suction tube electrode featuring a blunt distal end and a selectively extendible needle electrode, along with side-mounted aspiration ports to prevent clogging and facilitate precise dissection and coagulation, while allowing for independent or concurrent control of the electrodes and adjustable suction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a ring-like electrode is used for electrosurgical suction coagulation, then the device can perform coagulation and suction functions, but the electrode cannot provide precise dissection control and is prone to clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is divided into two separate components: a ring electrode for coagulation and a needle electrode for precise dissection. This segmentation allows each electrode to be optimized for its specific function, with the needle electrode providing precise control for dissection while the ring electrode handles coagulation and suction.
Solution Approach 2:
The device integrates multiple functions into a single instrument: the ring electrode performs coagulation and suction, while the needle electrode provides precise dissection capability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate instruments and reduces clogging issues by allowing the needle to be retracted when not needed for dissection.
2Productivity
If a ring-like electrode is used for electrosurgical suction coagulation, then the device can evacuate fluid through the distal end, but the electrode obstructs 360-degree operation and requires frequent cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The needle electrode is made selectively extendible and retractable, allowing the device to adapt its configuration dynamically. When the needle is retracted, the ring electrode can rotate freely for 360-degree operation. When extension is needed, the needle protrudes for precise dissection. This dynamic adjustment eliminates obstruction during rotation and reduces cleaning frequency.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional blunt dissectors like peanuts are used during laparoscopic procedures, then tissue can be dissected without severing vessels, but the view becomes obstructed by tissue and fluid debris requiring immediate irrigation and aspiration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical blunt dissectors (peanuts, fingers) with an electrosurgical needle electrode that uses controlled electrical current for precise tissue dissection. This substitution allows for cleaner cuts with less debris generation, maintaining better visibility in the operative field while still avoiding damage to vessels and nerves through controlled energy delivery.
4Ease of operation
If suction is applied to remove fluid and debris from the operative field, then visibility is improved, but the suction tube clogs with blood and tissue interrupting the hemostasis procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The suction system is segmented into two parts: the ring electrode with integrated suction capability for continuous fluid removal, and the needle electrode that can be retracted to prevent clogging. The needle's retraction creates an open path for the suction tube, preventing tissue and blood from blocking the suction lumen while maintaining continuous visibility and suction operation.
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
The design enables precise dissection and coagulation with reduced clogging, improved maneuverability, and efficient fluid management, enhancing surgical precision and reducing the need for frequent cleaning and additional instruments during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The coagulation of bleeding blood vessels and tissue using electrically conductive suction tubes
Implementation Method 2
A suction source is attached to a proximal portion of the tube for evacuating excess fluid and debris from the surgical site through the distal end of the tube
Data Source
AI summary
An electrosurgical suction coagulator includes a handle having an elongated tube electrode or conductive suction tube extending from a distal end of the handle. The elongated suction tube includes a substantially blunt or closed distal end and an elongated slot disposed therethrough for slideably receiving a needle electrode. The needle electrode is selectively extendible relative to the closed distal end to facilitate precise dissection. When retracted, the user can use the closed distal end for spot or blunt coagulation. At least one aspiration port is disposed along a side of the elongated suction tube for removing surgical fluids from the operating area.