Toggling Distal Tip for Precise Surgical Stapler Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical staplers face challenges in effectively positioning and maneuvering the distal end effector for precise tissue engagement and sealing, particularly in endoscopic procedures, due to limitations in articulation and tip angulation.
Innovation Solution
The surgical stapler incorporates a toggling distal tip mechanism that allows for selective rotation and locking of the distal tip relative to the anvil body, enhancing the ability to articulate and position the end effector for optimal tissue engagement and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional rigid distal tip is used, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the ability to articulate and position the end effector for precise tissue engagement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The distal tip is designed with a toggling mechanism that allows it to dynamically change its angular position relative to the anvil body. The tip can be selectively articulated between a first angular position and a second angular position, enabling adaptation to different tissue engagement requirements while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure through the use of a toggle linkage system.
2Manufacturing precision
If the distal tip is made articulating with multiple positions, then the precision of tissue engagement is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced due to additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The toggle mechanism is designed to be self-locking, where the geometric configuration of the linkage automatically maintains the selected angular position without requiring additional locking mechanisms or active control systems. The operator simply actuates the toggle to switch between positions, and the mechanism itself maintains the position through its structural design, reducing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed angular position is used, then the device complexity is minimized, but the versatility for different surgical sites and tissue types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distal tip transitions from a fixed angular position to a dynamically adjustable position through the toggle mechanism. This allows the end effector to adapt its orientation to match different surgical site geometries and tissue types, providing versatility without requiring a complex multi-degree-of-freedom articulation system. The binary position system offers a practical balance between adaptability and simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument end effector includes a first jaw configured to receive a staple cartridge and a second jaw that includes an anvil having a plurality of staple forming pockets. The first and second jaws are operable to clamp and staple tissue positioned therebetween. A tip member is movably disposed at a distal end of the anvil and is configured to toggle relative to the anvil between a first discrete position and a second discrete position. The tip member in the first discrete position is oriented angularly toward the first jaw, and the tip member in the second discrete position is oriented angularly away from the first discrete position.