Suture-Loaded Staples for Fast Tissue Joining in Confined Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suturing methods are inefficient and cumbersome, particularly in joining tissue quickly and efficiently, especially in confined spaces or during surgical procedures like anastomosis, and often require electrical power sources.
Innovation Solution
A portable, handheld suturing system that uses manually operated or powered actuators to concurrently implant multiple suture segments across a tissue break, utilizing biodegradable staples and suture segments with barbs to secure the tissue, and can be integrated into robotic surgical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional suturing methods are used, then tissue joining can be achieved, but the process is inefficient and cumbersome, especially in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The suture delivery system is divided into multiple independent suture cartridges, each containing pre-formed suture segments. This segmentation allows simultaneous delivery of multiple sutures through a single device, dramatically improving suturing efficiency while maintaining ease of operation through standardized modular components
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple suture segments are nested within individual cartridges that are themselves nested within the main device housing. This nested structure enables compact storage of multiple sutures in a confined space while allowing sequential or simultaneous deployment without increasing operational complexity
2Reliability
If multiple suture segments are implanted concurrently, then suturing speed and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple suture delivery functions are merged into a single integrated device that can deliver multiple suture segments through one puncture site. The device combines multiple cartridges, driving mechanisms, and retention structures into one unified system, improving reliability by ensuring all sutures are implanted simultaneously while managing complexity through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal components that can accommodate different suture types, sizes, and configurations through standardized cartridge interfaces. The multi-functional design allows the same device to deliver various suture segments for different surgical applications without increasing operational complexity
3Extent of automation
If electrical power sources are used in suturing systems, then automated suture delivery is achieved, but portability and simplicity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The suture delivery system uses self-service mechanisms where spring-loaded cartridges automatically propel suture segments through pre-punctured tissue without requiring external power sources. The device leverages stored mechanical energy in springs and elastic elements to achieve automated suture deployment, maintaining portability and simplicity while eliminating the need for batteries or electrical components
Data Source
AI summary
A suturing system includes a suturing device that includes a staple and a staple drive. The staple includes a center portion and end portions extending from the center portion. The end portions have hollow interiors terminating at end openings and are configured to removably receive portions of a suture segment. The staple drive is coupled to the staple to impel the staple containing the suture segment into tissue and to retract the staple from the tissue while leaving the suture segment in the tissue.