Trocar System with Integrated Imaging and Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive surgical procedures face challenges in initial access due to complex equipment management, requiring multiple sterile optics and video cameras with different settings, leading to cable tangles and increased personnel input, which complicates the visualization and monitoring of puncture procedures.
Innovation Solution
A trocar system with integrated imaging means and a signal transmission device allows for single-use, encapsulated components that transmit imaging information to a display device, featuring an on/off switch for independent operation, reducing the need for assistance and simplifying the visualization of the working field with visible or invisible light and ultrasound.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sterile optics and video cameras with different settings are used for imaging, then the visualization of different surgical fields is improved, but the device complexity and cable management become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions (different angles, different wavelengths) into a single endoscope assembly. The endoscope includes both visible light optics and infrared optics integrated in one device, eliminating the need for separate sterile optics and cameras. This merging reduces cable management complexity while maintaining versatile imaging capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The endoscope is designed as a universal imaging device that can perform multiple functions: visible light imaging for standard surgery, infrared imaging for puncture monitoring, and switching between different angular fields (0° and 30°/45°). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If second sterile optics with different angular field are docked-on or provided, then the visualization of different surgical fields is improved, but the personnel input and time required for swapping connections increase
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope incorporates a movable or switchable optical system that can dynamically change between different angular fields (0° and 30°/45°) without requiring physical replacement or reconnection of optics. This dynamic capability allows the surgeon to switch viewing angles instantly during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple angular field optics are integrated into a single endoscope assembly, allowing the surgeon to switch between 0° and 30°/45° views without disconnecting or swapping components. This eliminates the time-consuming connection swapping process while maintaining versatile angular coverage.
3Measurement precision
If camera settings are determined manually at the beginning of surgery or when changing endoscopic instruments, then the imaging parameters are optimized, but the time consumption and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope system includes automatic detection and configuration capabilities that self-adjust imaging parameters based on the detected endoscope type and surgical conditions. The system automatically identifies the connected endoscope model and configures optimal camera settings without requiring manual intervention from the surgeon or assisting personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic feedback mechanisms that detect the endoscope type and surgical field conditions, then automatically adjust camera parameters (gain, exposure, wavelength filtering) to optimize imaging quality. This feedback loop eliminates manual settings adjustment while maintaining precise imaging parameters.
4Illumination intensity
If visible light is used for imaging, then the working field is clearly visible, but the penetration depth into tissue is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The endoscope system can switch between different wavelength parameters: visible light (400-700nm) for high visibility of the working field and infrared light (700nm-1mm) for deeper tissue penetration. The system automatically or manually selects the appropriate wavelength parameter based on the surgical task, optimizing both visibility and penetration depth as needed.
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
This solution simplifies and secures initial access in minimally invasive procedures by reducing personnel input, eliminating cable tangles, and allowing independent operation of imaging equipment, enhancing visualization and reducing the complexity of equipment management during surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
imaging means to render the working field visible through the distal end of the shaft
Implementation Method 2
visible or invisible light and ultrasound
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a trocar system for a minimally invasive work station, comprising an endoscopic instrument (2) having imaging means (3) and a device for transmitting the signals containing the image information to a display unit (6) and, as required, work tools, further comprising a trocar assembly (7 to 16) having a trocar sleeve, which is designed to receive a pin, including imaging means (8, 14), provided with a tip that is permeable to imaging media having different wavelengths, wherein the imaging means are provided to make the work field visible through the distal end of the pin and a device (16) is provided for transmitting the signals containing the image information to a display unit (6). The trocar assembly (7 to 16) and the minimally invasive instrument (3) are provided for separate use and for displaying the respective image information for the same display unit (6). The pin is provided with an on/off switch (13). The display device is equipped to display the image information transmitted by the pin when the pin is switched on and to suppress the display of the image information transmitted by the endoscopic instrument, and to display the information transmitted by the endoscopic instrument when the pin is switched off.