Surgical Introducer Tip for Tissue Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
During minimally invasive surgical procedures, existing surgical fastener applying apparatuses often face challenges in separating target tissue from adherent collateral tissues, which can hinder the isolation and access to internal anatomical structures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical fastener applying apparatus with an introducer member, featuring a flexible material configuration and a tapered, rigid tip, designed to separate target tissue from collateral tissue, and a connector member for secure engagement with the end effector, facilitating the positioning of target tissue between jaws while avoiding collateral tissue contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a surgical fastener applying apparatus is used to connect adjacent sections of tissue, then tissue connection is achieved, but collateral tissues may adhere to or be joined with the target tissue, hindering isolation and access to internal anatomical structures
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is segmented into three distinct components: an introducer member for initial tissue separation, a dissector tip for precise collateral tissue division, and the fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The introducer member performs preliminary action by separating target tissue from collateral tissue before the fastening operation. The dissector tip then performs additional preliminary action by cutting through adherent collateral tissues, creating a clear pathway and isolating the target tissue before the fastener is applied.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing surgical fastener applying apparatuses are used, then fastening function is provided, but the ability to separate target tissue from adherent collateral tissues is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges three functions into a single integrated end effector: tissue separation by the introducer member, collateral tissue division by the dissector tip, and fastening by the fastener applying mechanism. This combination provides enhanced adaptability while maintaining ease of operation through a unified device that performs multiple functions in sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector is designed as a multi-functional universal tool that can perform introduction, dissection, and fastening operations. The introducer member and dissector tip are integrated into the fastener applying apparatus, allowing the same device to handle both separation and fastening tasks without requiring multiple separate instruments.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a rigid structure is used for tissue separation, then separation capability is improved, but trauma to tissue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The introducer member features a localized soft or compliant tip at its distal end that contacts the tissue, while the proximal portion maintains structural strength. The dissector tip has a localized sharp cutting edge for precise division, while the shaft provides overall structural support. This local quality differentiation allows gentle tissue interaction at the contact point while maintaining the strength needed for effective separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The introducer member's distal end is designed with changed material parameters (soft or compliant material) compared to the proximal portion. The dissector tip uses a sharp geometric parameter (acute angle) to concentrate force for clean cutting. These parameter changes enable the device to separate tissue effectively while minimizing trauma through controlled force distribution and material selection.
Data Source
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AI summary
An introducer member (1300) comprising: a body having a proximal portion (1302) and a distal portion (1304), the proximal portion including an outer layer (1306) and an inner layer (1308) which collectively define a cavity (1310), the proximal portion defining a hollow (1312) which is configured to receive a portion of an end effector (20), the body defining a passage (1314) which is in fluid communication with the cavity, and a port (1316) supported on the body, the port being configured to facilitate inflation of the cavity.