Thoracostomy Tube Access Device with Visual Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for placing a thoracostomy tube are invasive and prone to complications due to blind placement, leading to sub-optimal tube positioning and risk of injury to internal organs.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a tube and trocar with a handle, sheath, and a tip member that includes an indicator for direct visualization and positioning, as well as variants with a power source, light sources, and a camera for enhanced visualization and precision during thoracic cavity access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If blind thoracostomy tube insertion is performed using standard methods, then the procedure can be completed with simple equipment, but the placement accuracy is poor and complication rates are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trocar as an intermediary tool between the provider and the thoracic cavity. The trocar includes a shaft with a cutting edge for dissecting tissue and a lumen that guides the tube through the chest wall, enabling precise placement while maintaining procedural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces blind mechanical insertion with visual guidance systems. Modern embodiments include optical fibers, cameras, or fluorescent markers that allow real-time visualization of tube placement, substituting the blind mechanical process with an informed visual-guided process
2Ease of operation
If sharp and blunt dissection of the thoracic wall is performed, then access to the pleural space is achieved, but tissue damage and complications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The trocar shaft is segmented into distinct functional zones: a cutting edge for sharp dissection of external tissue, a blunt tip for safe internal advancement, and a lumen for tube passage. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function with minimal tissue damage
Solution Approach 2:
The trocar design changes the physical parameters of the insertion tool - using a hollow shaft with specific wall thickness and a rounded distal end that transitions from sharp cutting capability to blunt protection, thereby controlling the degree of tissue interaction along the insertion path
3Reliability
If digital assessment of the pleural space is performed, then cavity access is confirmed, but the risk of infection and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trocar lumen serves as a sterile intermediary channel that allows visual and instrumental assessment of the pleural space without requiring direct digital contact. The hollow shaft maintains the sterile barrier while enabling confirmation of proper cavity access
4Productivity
If sub-optimal tube placement occurs, then the procedure can be completed quickly, but drainage effectiveness is reduced and replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The trocar is designed to perform preliminary actions of tissue dissection and pathway creation before tube insertion. The cutting edge and blunt tip prepare the exact insertion path in advance, ensuring the tube follows the predetermined optimal trajectory into the pleural space
Solution Approach 2:
The trocar shaft acts as a guiding intermediary that maintains tube alignment during insertion. The lumen provides a physical conduit that directs the tube to the correct position, preventing malplacement while maintaining procedural efficiency
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 simplified and precise placement of thoracostomy tubes under direct visualization, reducing complications and improving tube positioning accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The tip member is biased in an extension direction away from the handle
Implementation Method 2
The photoresistor is electrically coupled to the power source and to the indicator light
Implementation Method 3
The light shield is disposed between the photoresistor and the utility light source to direct light from the utility light source around the photoresistor and out the distal end of the tip member
Data Source
AI summary
A device for accessing a cavity includes a tube and a trocar. The trocar extends through the tube and includes a handle, a sheath, and a tip member. The sheath is opposite the handle. The tip member is disposed in the sheath. The tip member is biased in an extension direction away from the handle. The tip member also includes an indicator indicating a position of the tip member relative to the handle.