Surgical Stapler Sensing Assembly for Precise Tissue Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments face challenges in accurately controlling and monitoring the stapling and cutting processes, particularly in terms of tissue engagement, load sensing, and articulation, which can affect the precision and reliability of surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a surgical instrument assembly that incorporates a stretchable optical waveguide, a sensing system with Hall effect sensors, and a flex circuit with stretchable and non-stretchable zones, along with a sensing system using pressure sensors and magnets, to enhance the precision and control of stapling and cutting operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional mechanical sensing systems are used to monitor actuation member position, then the device structure is simpler, but measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical sensing systems with an optical sensing system. A stretchable optical waveguide is attached to the actuation member, and light transmission changes through the waveguide are measured to determine actuation member position. This substitution of mechanical sensing with optical sensing achieves higher measurement precision while managing device complexity through the use of flexible, integrable optical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical waveguide serves as an intermediary element between the actuation member and the sensing system. The waveguide translates mechanical displacement of the actuation member into optical signal changes (light transmission variations), enabling precise non-contact measurement of position without requiring direct mechanical coupling between the sensing system and actuation member.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigid sensing components are used, then manufacturing is easier, but the system cannot accommodate articulation and stretching movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a stretchable optical waveguide that can flex and stretch to accommodate the articulation and movement of the surgical instrument. This flexible optical component maintains optical signal transmission while deforming, enabling the sensing system to adapt to various configurations including articulated positions and stretched states without compromising manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system transitions from a static, rigid configuration to a dynamic, flexible one. The optical waveguide is designed to stretch and flex in coordination with the actuation member and articulation mechanisms, allowing the system to adapt to changing geometries during operation while maintaining measurement capability throughout the range of motion.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical linkages are used for actuation, then the structure is simpler, but system backlash reduces firing stroke accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical linkage-based actuation with a system that uses optical sensing to monitor and control actuation member position. By eliminating or reducing mechanical linkages and using optical feedback, the system minimizes backlash and improves firing stroke accuracy. The optical waveguide provides continuous position information without the play and friction inherent in mechanical connections.
4Ease of operation
If extensive mechanical components are used for articulation control, then the structure is more robust, but the system becomes harder to control precisely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an optical feedback system using the stretchable waveguide to continuously monitor articulation member position. The light transmission changes provide real-time feedback on articulation state, enabling precise control through feedback mechanisms. This optical feedback replaces or supplements complex mechanical control systems, improving ease of operation while managing overall device complexity through intelligent control.
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 configuration allows for improved precision and control over stapling and cutting processes, ensuring accurate tissue engagement and reliable operation, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and safety of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a sensing system utilizing a stretchable optical waveguide attached to the actuation member, which measures light transmission changes as it stretches
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of operating a surgical instrument are disclosed herein.