External Instrument Channel Suturing Cap for Small Endoscopes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic suturing systems require two instrument channels, limiting their use to larger endoscopes and making them unsuitable for smaller, more easily advanced endoscopes through natural orifices.
Innovation Solution
An endoscopic suturing system designed for use with small profile endoscopes, featuring a suturing device with a distal cap assembly and transmission assembly that operates independently of the number of instrument channels, allowing for suturing operations through a single channel endoscope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate endoscopes are used to perform different functions (inspection, therapy, surgery), then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and procedural difficulty worsen due to multiple incisions and device manipulations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple endoscope functions into a single integrated endoscope that can perform inspection, therapy, and surgery through a single channel. The system integrates an inspection light source, therapy light source, and surgical instrument delivery capability within one endoscope assembly, eliminating the need for multiple separate endoscopes and reducing procedural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope is designed with universal multi-functionality, where a single device can switch between different operational modes (inspection, therapy, surgery) based on clinical needs. The system includes interchangeable or selectable components that allow one endoscope to perform multiple functions that previously required separate specialized devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate endoscopes are used for different functions, then functional versatility is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to multiple incisions and complex device manipulations
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple endoscope functions into a single device with a single incision access point, the system dramatically simplifies the surgical procedure. The operator manages one endoscope rather than coordinating multiple devices, reducing the complexity of device manipulation and improving ease of operation while maintaining full functional versatility
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid structure is used to maintain shape and position, then structural stability is improved, but flexibility and adaptability worsen when navigating tortuous pathways
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope employs local quality differentiation with a flexible distal portion for navigation through tortuous pathways and a more stable proximal portion for support. The shaft includes flexible sections that can bend and conform to anatomical structures while maintaining overall structural integrity, allowing the device to adapt to different pathways while preserving functional stability
Data Source
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AI summary
A distal cap apparatus for use with an endoscope having a proximal end and a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, comprising: a mount configured for mounting to the distal end of the endoscope; and according to a first alternative of the distal cap apparatus, a strap connected to the mount and configured for banding about the distal end of the endoscope when the distal end of the endoscope is received in the mount, wherein the mount defines a strap slot configured to receive an end of the strap to configure the strap in the banded configuration, or according to a second alternative of the distal cap apparatus, a strap connected to the mount and configured to be banded about the endoscope in a banded configuration, wherein the mount includes a buckle configured for adjusting a size of a loop defined by the strap and the mount when the strap is in the banded configuration.