Surgical Stapler Shaft Recognition for Firing and Articulation Lockout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical staplers have complex mechanisms that increase manufacturing burdens and potential device failure, while also confusing users.
Innovation Solution
A surgical stapler with a simplified handle assembly and articulation mechanism, featuring a reusable handle and disposable cartridge, along with a shaft recognition mechanism to prevent improper use and enhance user clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex mechanisms with multiple triggers and handles are used to ensure proper tissue stapling, then stapling reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a reusable handle assembly and a disposable cartridge assembly, separating the complex firing mechanism from the stapling function. This segmentation allows the handle to be simplified while maintaining reliability through the pre-configured cartridge.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed as a disposable component that is pre-loaded with staples and configured for a single use. This eliminates the need for complex reloading mechanisms and ensures consistent performance without requiring the handle to manage cartridge replacement complexity.
2Reliability
If complex mechanisms with multiple triggers and handles are used to ensure proper tissue stapling, then stapling reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to user confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The complexity of cartridge configuration and staple loading is extracted from the handle assembly and embodied in the pre-configured disposable cartridge. Users simply attach the pre-configured cartridge to the handle, eliminating the need to understand complex internal mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is pre-loaded with staples and pre-configured with the correct settings before reaching the user. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for users to perform complex setup procedures, improving ease of operation while ensuring reliable stapling.
3Reliability
If shaft recognition mechanism is added to prevent improper use, then device reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shaft recognition features are merged into the mechanical interface between the handle and cartridge. The shape-complementary features and cam engagement are integrated into the existing coupling mechanism, adding recognition functionality without requiring separate complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle and cartridge are designed with asymmetric shape-complementary features that allow proper engagement in only one orientation. This asymmetric design provides automatic recognition and prevention of improper use without requiring additional sensors or complex control systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
A handle assembly for a surgical stapler can comprise a rotatable actuation shaft. The actuation shaft can have a first rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a staple firing mode, and a second rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a reversing mode. The handle assembly can include an articulation mechanism including a ball screw to selectively articulate the jaw assembly relative to an elongate shaft. The handle assembly can include a mechanism to lock out selection of the staple firing mode and actuation of the articulation mechanism if a reload shaft is not securely coupled to the handle assembly.