Surgical Clamping Device With Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical clamping devices face challenges in consistently applying the right force to constrict or occlude blood vessels, leading to potential damage or complications due to uneven pressure distribution and the need for multiple sizes and types, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A surgical clamping device with adjustable elongate clamping members and a controller using MEMS technology to precisely control pressure, incorporating blood flow sensors and actuators to ensure consistent occlusion, and an applicator system for enhanced maneuverability and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional surgical clamps with springs or ratcheting mechanisms are used, then clamping force can be applied to occlude blood vessels, but the force varies significantly and can damage the vessel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism where the deformable member's deformation is sensed and used to adjust the clamping force in real-time. The system continuously monitors the deformation of the deformable member and adjusts the actuation force to maintain optimal clamping pressure, preventing both insufficient occlusion and excessive force that could damage the vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the clamping mechanism by using a deformable member that can change its shape in response to applied force. The deformable member transitions from an undeformed state to a deformed state, and this deformation is directly correlated to the clamping force applied to the vessel, allowing for precise control of the parameter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes of clamps are used to accommodate different vessel sizes, then appropriate clamping can be achieved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal clamping device that can accommodate vessels of different sizes through a single device design. The adjustable mechanism allows the same device to be configured for various vessel diameters by adjusting the initial configuration of the deformable member or the actuation parameters, eliminating the need for multiple specialized clamp sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustability to the clamping device, allowing the configuration to be changed during use. The deformable member can be adjusted to different initial states, and the actuation system can modify the applied force dynamically, enabling the same device to adapt to different vessel sizes and conditions.
3Force
If manual ratcheting mechanisms are used, then clamping force can be maintained, but the pressure distribution is non-uniform along the clamping members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the clamping force distribution non-uniform in a controlled manner through the deformable member's geometry. The deformable member is designed with specific curvature or cross-sectional variations that concentrate the clamping force at the region where the vessel is located, while reducing force at distal regions to prevent damage. This creates locally optimized pressure distribution matching the vessel's position.
4Loss of substance
If reusable metal clamps are used to reduce cost, then sterilization and reuse is possible, but metal fatigue and loss of clamping tension occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material state from rigid metal to a deformable material that can elastically deform and return to its original shape. This deformable member is designed to operate within its elastic limit, allowing repeated use without the metal fatigue problems associated with rigid metal clamps. The material selection and geometric design ensure that each use cycle does not exceed the material's fatigue threshold.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to surgical clamping devices and applicators for use therewith. Embodiments of the surgical clamping device comprise a body and a pair of clamping members extending from the body. An electronic controller housed within the body is coupled to control movement of at least one of the clamping members to control a pressure exerted by the clamping members on a blood vessel clamped therebetween. At least one blood flow sensor is mounted to at least one of the clamping members to detect blood flow in the blood vessel. The clamping members are locked in place when blood flow has been occluded or constricted to the desired extent.