Multi-Function Surgical Instrument Switch Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instruments are limited in their ability to seamlessly switch between bipolar and monopolar modes of operation, requiring multiple instruments for procedures that need both functionalities, which can complicate endoscopic and other surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function surgical instrument with a switch assembly that allows for seamless switching between bipolar and monopolar modes by moving a monopolar assembly between retracted, deployed, and intermediate positions, coupling and decoupling energy sources to either treat tissue with bipolar or monopolar energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single surgical instrument incorporates both bipolar and monopolar functionalities, then the need for multiple instruments is eliminated and procedural efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for switching mechanisms and multiple energy sources
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument is designed to perform both bipolar and monopolar functions using a single device. The instrument includes a bipolar energy source with bipolar electrodes for tissue sealing and a monopolar energy source with a monopolar electrode for tissue dissection, allowing the practitioner to switch between functions as needed during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument incorporates a movable monopolar assembly that can be positioned in different locations along the shaft. The monopolar assembly includes a monopolar electrode that can be extended or retracted, allowing dynamic adjustment of the electrode position and configuration to optimize performance for different surgical tasks.
2Ease of operation
If the monopolar assembly is moved between retracted and deployed positions to switch energy sources, then seamless mode switching is achieved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism is integrated into the existing monopolar assembly structure. The monopolar assembly itself serves as the switching mechanism by being movable between retracted and deployed positions, eliminating the need for a separate switching device. When retracted, the bipolar energy source is coupled to the bipolar electrodes; when deployed, the monopolar energy source is coupled to the monopolar electrode.
3Reliability
If bipolar electrodes are used for tissue sealing, then hemostasis is achieved through heating and coagulation, but the ability to dissect through narrow tissue planes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument is divided into distinct functional components: a bipolar energy source with bipolar electrodes for reliable tissue sealing and hemostasis, and a monopolar energy source with a monopolar electrode for precise tissue dissection through narrow planes. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while being integrated into a single instrument.
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
Enables efficient tissue sealing and dissection by allowing the instrument to switch between bipolar and monopolar modes, reducing the need for multiple instruments and improving procedural efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
conducting energy between first and second electrically-conductive plates of the bipolar assembly to seal tissue disposed therebetween
Implementation Method 2
applying energy from an energizable rod member of the monopolar assembly to tissue to dissect tissue adjacent the energizable rod member
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes providing a bipolar energy source, a monopolar energy source, a bipolar assembly, and a monopolar assembly. The method further includes moving the monopolar assembly to a retracted position. Moving the monopolar assembly to the retracted position couples the bipolar energy source to the bipolar assembly and decouples the monopolar energy source from the monopolar assembly. The method further includes moving the monopolar assembly to a deployed position. Moving the monopolar assembly to the deployed position decouples the bipolar energy source from the bipolar assembly and couples the monopolar energy source to the monopolar assembly.