Surgical Access Device Sidewall Light Emitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for illuminating surgical sites during minimally invasive surgery are inadequate, as external light sources are cumbersome, create shadows, and obstruct access, while internal light sources reduce the working area and hinder instrument use.
Innovation Solution
An illuminated surgical access system with a light emitter integrated into the sidewall of the access device near the distal end, providing circumferential light without reducing the working area or encumbering the surgeon, using a light transmission medium like fiber optics to transmit light from the proximal end to the surgical site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If external light sources are used to illuminate the surgical site, then illumination is provided, but the light source and transmission medium are cumbersome and block access to the port
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source and transmission medium into an integrated unit that is inserted through the access port and positioned within the surgical site. This merging eliminates the need for separate external light sources and cumbersome transmission cables, allowing the surgeon to access the port freely while maintaining illumination of the surgical site through the integrated light emitter at the distal end.
2Illumination intensity
If head-mounted light sources are used, then illumination is provided, but the surgeon must constantly direct the light at an optimal angle, creating shadows and obstructing access
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated light emitter is positioned at the distal end of the access port, allowing it to self-illuminate the surgical site without requiring the surgeon to manually adjust light direction. The light source is built into the device structure, eliminating the need for continuous manual positioning and reducing shadow formation, while the surgeon can focus solely on the surgical procedure.
3Illumination intensity
If light sources are attached to the interior of the access port, then illumination is provided, but the working area is reduced and instrument use is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The light emitter is positioned at the distal end of the access port, providing localized illumination precisely where it is needed for the surgical procedure. This local positioning allows the light to illuminate the working space effectively without occupying the central working area, thereby maintaining adequate space for instrument insertion and manipulation while providing superior illumination compared to external sources.
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
This solution provides superior illumination of the surgical site, reducing the likelihood of shadows and obstruction, while maintaining a clear working area and not requiring additional equipment for the surgeon, thus enhancing surgical access and visibility.
Implementation Method 1
using a light transmission medium like fiber optics to transmit light from the proximal end to the surgical site
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical access system for providing access to a surgical site in a patient includes a surgical access device defining a working channel for accessing a surgical site and an integrated light emitter for illuminating the surgical site. The light emitter is integrated in proximity to a distal end of the surgical access device. In some embodiments, the light emitter is offset from the distal end. In certain embodiments, the integrated light emitter includes a light transmission medium for transmitting light from a proximal end of the access device to the distal end.