Tonsillectomy Suction Dissector with Flexible Blade
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tonsillectomy procedures require multiple instruments, leading to complexity and prolongation of the surgery, and the Yankauer suction tip often occludes when used near tissues or large blood clots, complicating fluid aspiration.
Innovation Solution
A tonsillectomy suction dissector apparatus with a flexible cutting blade member that can be configured between dissection and suction modes using a hand-operable locking mechanism, featuring suction inlet ports located inferiorly to prevent occlusion, allowing for one-handed operation and reduced blood loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple instruments (cutting blade, forceps, Yankauer tip) are used for tonsillectomy, then dissection and suction functions are provided, but the procedure becomes complicated and prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines three separate instruments (cutting blade, forceps, and Yankauer tip) into a single integrated apparatus. The cutting blade member is positioned within the forceps handle assembly, and the Yankauer suction tip is integrated into the same structure, allowing all functions to be performed with one instrument rather than requiring multiple separate tools
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - dissection of tonsils using the cutting blade, grasping tissue with the forceps, and suction of blood/fluids using the Yankauer tip. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for instrument substitution during the procedure, allowing the surgeon to perform all tasks with a single universal tool
2Productivity
If Yankauer tip is brought into close approximation with tissues or large blood clots, then suctioning capability is provided, but the tip easily occludes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the Yankauer suction tip in a retracted position relative to the cutting blade, creating spatial separation between the suction opening and the cutting edge. This dimensional arrangement allows the suction tip to remain clear of tissues and blood clots during dissection, preventing occlusion while maintaining suction capability when needed
3Ease of operation
If three separate instruments are used, then dissection and suction functions are achieved, but an assistant is required or instrument substitution is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cutting blade, forceps, and Yankauer tip into a single integrated apparatus that can be operated with one hand. This eliminates the need for an assistant to manage multiple instruments and removes the need for instrument substitution during the procedure, significantly simplifying the operational workflow
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
The apparatus simplifies the procedure by enabling simultaneous dissection and suction with one hand, minimizing blood accumulation and reducing the risk of surrounding tissue injury, while preventing occlusion issues with the suction tip.
Implementation Method 1
a suction channel within and along the tip operably connecting at least one suction inlet port located at the end of the tip to a vacuum port of the handle for the suction of fluid in use
Data Source
AI summary
A tonsillectomy suction dissector apparatus (100) having a proximal handle (101) and a distal curved tip (102) which has a suction channel (103) within and along the tip connecting at least one suction inlet port (105) to a vacuum port. The apparatus has a flexible cutting blade member (106) slidably retained and orientated widthwise within a corresponding slot (107) and configurable by hand operable locking mechanism (108) between an extended position wherein a distal cutting end (109) of the cutting blade member extends from the end of the tip and a retracted position. The shape and orientation of the blade allows the blade to bend within the slot when being extended for cutting.