Differential-Rotation Suturing Forceps for Confined Endoscopic Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional suturing devices require ample room for manipulation, which is not feasible in endoscopic and arthroscopic procedures, limiting their application in minimally invasive surgeries.
Innovation Solution
Suturing forceps with a differential rotation mechanism that includes a suture arm and return arm, connected via a gear mechanism, allowing for the insertion and retrieval of a suture needle through tissue with minimal space, enabling consistent and efficient suturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional suturing devices are used, then suturing function is achieved, but ample room for manipulation is required which is not feasible in endoscopic and arthroscopic procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent arms (first tool arm, second tool arm, suture arm, return arm) that can operate independently yet cooperatively. Each arm has specific functions: gripping, suturing, and returning the needle, allowing complex suturing operations to be performed through coordinated movement of segmented components within limited space
Solution Approach 2:
The forceps device integrates multiple functions into a single instrument: it can grasp tissue, insert sutures, manipulate needle and thread, and retrieve needles. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate surgical instruments, enabling the device to perform all suturing operations within the constrained space of endoscopic and arthroscopic procedures
2Productivity
If suturing is performed manually with traditional tools, then suturing is achievable, but it is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The suture needle is pre-loaded into the needle holder attached to the suture arm before the surgical procedure begins. The suture thread is also pre-threaded through the needle and secured to the return arm. This preliminary preparation eliminates the time-consuming steps of needle handling and suture threading during the actual suturing operation, significantly reducing surgical time
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines the functions of needle holder, suture thread manager, and needle retriever into a single integrated system. The coordination between the suture arm (inserting needle) and return arm (retrieving needle) occurs automatically through the differential rotation mechanism, merging multiple manual operations into a single coordinated action that accelerates the suturing process
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex suturing manipulation is performed in limited space, then endoscopic procedures are enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The differential rotation mechanism acts as an intermediary that translates the simple rotational movement of the handle into the complex coordinated movements of multiple arms. This mechanism mediate between the user's input (handle rotation) and the output (coordinated arm movements for needle insertion and retrieval), enabling complex functionality while maintaining simple operation
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where the suture arm and return arm are positioned within the framework of the first and second tool arms. The needle holder and needle catch are nested within the respective arms. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall device footprint while maintaining all necessary functional components, allowing the complex device to operate within the limited space of endoscopic procedures
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 quick, easy, and consistent installation of suture stitches in target tissue, suitable for endoscopic and arthroscopic procedures, with ergonomic design and compatibility with various suture types.
Implementation Method 1
A suture arm is connected to the first tool arm and/or the second tool arm through a differential rotation mechanism. The differential rotation mechanism is configured such that rotation of the first tool arm and/or the second tool arm causes the differential rotation mechanism to cause the suture arm to rotate to insert a suture needle through target tissue
Implementation Method 2
Forceps are typically structurally similar to pliers and scissors in the sense that a handle end (proximal end) and a tool end (distal end) have a pivot therebetween along the length of the tool, often at or near a midpoint thereof. Mechanically, forceps employ the principle of the lever to grasp and apply pressure.
Implementation Method 3
The suture arm includes a needle holder configured to retain a suture needle
Implementation Method 4
The return arm includes a needle catch configured to disengage the suture needle from the needle holder and retain the suture needle when the suture arm and the return arm are in a closed position after the suture arm has inserted the suture needle through target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
Suturing forceps and method of suturing includes first and second tool arms being connected and configured to rotate about a pivot. First and second grip ends are arranged at respective distal ends of the first and second tool arms. A suture arm is connected to the first tool arm and/or the second tool arm through a differential rotation mechanism, such as a gear set or mechanism. The suture arm is configured to retain a suture needle. The differential rotation mechanism is configured such that rotation of the first tool arm and/or the second tool arm causes the differential rotation mechanism to cause the suture arm to rotate. A return arm is connected to the first tool arm and/or the second tool arm and the differential rotation mechanism is configured to cause the suture arm to rotate and disengage a suture needle from the suture arm.