Surgical Switch Assembly for Bipolar Monopolar Mode Transition
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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 the use of multiple instruments during procedures that benefit from both modes, which can complicate endoscopic and other surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical instrument with a switch assembly that allows for seamless switching between bipolar and monopolar modes, featuring a movable member that couples either the bipolar or monopolar inputs to the corresponding outputs, enabling the same instrument to conduct energy through tissue or apply energy to tissue, respectively, with a deployable monopolar assembly relative to the bipolar assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate instruments are used for bipolar and monopolar functions, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both bipolar and monopolar functional assemblies into a single surgical instrument. The instrument includes a bipolar assembly with first and second energizable members for bipolar energy delivery, and a monopolar assembly with a third energizable member for monopolar energy delivery. This merging eliminates the need to alternate between separate instruments during surgical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument is designed to perform multiple functions through a single device. The switch assembly enables the instrument to operate in both bipolar mode (for sealing and grasping tissue) and monopolar mode (for dissecting tissue), making the instrument universal for different surgical tasks without requiring instrument changes.
2Productivity
If a single instrument incorporates both bipolar and monopolar assemblies, then instrument changes are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both bipolar and monopolar assemblies are merged into a single instrument housing. The bipolar assembly includes first and second energizable members, while the monopolar assembly includes a third energizable member. This integration allows seamless switching between modes without removing or replacing instruments during procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
A switch assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism that selectively couples energy sources to the appropriate assemblies. The switch assembly includes a movable member that can couple bipolar inputs to bipolar outputs or couple monopolar inputs to monopolar outputs, enabling controlled transitions between operational modes without mechanical reconfiguration.
3Speed
If a movable member is used for switching between modes, then switching speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly serves as an intermediary mechanism that provides rapid switching between bipolar and monopolar modes. The movable member within the switch assembly can be actuated to change coupling configurations, enabling quick mode transitions without mechanical reconfiguration of the entire instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical switching systems with a more streamlined switch assembly that uses electrical coupling and decoupling mechanisms. The movable member changes electrical connections rather than requiring physical reconfiguration of energy delivery pathways, enabling faster switching.
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 and versatile surgical procedures by allowing a single instrument to perform both grasping and sealing functions in bipolar mode and dissecting in monopolar mode, reducing the need for instrument changes and enhancing procedural efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Bipolar electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to effect hemostasis by heating tissue and blood vessels to coagulate and/or cauterize tissue
Implementation Method 2
Monopolar surgical instruments, on the other hand, include an active electrode, and are used in conjunction with a remote return electrode, e.g., a return pad, to apply energy to tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument includes an end effector assembly and a switch assembly. The end effector assembly includes a monopolar assembly and a bipolar assembly. The switch assembly includes first and second bipolar inputs, first and second bipolar outputs, a monopolar input, and a monopolar output. The switch assembly is transitionable between a first condition, wherein the first and second bipolar inputs are coupled to the first and second bipolar outputs, respectively, for supplying energy to the bipolar assembly, and a second condition, wherein the monopolar input and the monopolar output are coupled to one another for supplying energy to the monopolar assembly.