Trocar Pressure Sensing for Accurate Body Cavity Insufflation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling pressure in body cavities during laparoscopic surgery are inaccurate due to pressure measurements taken at a distance from the cavity, leading to fluctuations and potential loss of visualization, which can be dangerous for the patient.
Innovation Solution
A pressure sensor is disposed within a trocar to measure pressure directly in the body cavity, allowing for more accurate control of insufflation fluid supply through a controller that adjusts pressure based on real-time measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure measurements are taken at a distance from the body cavity, then the measurement system is simpler, but the pressure control accuracy deteriorates leading to fluctuations and loss of visualization
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure sensor is introduced as an intermediary device positioned within the body cavity through the trocar to directly measure pressure at the source. This intermediary sensor eliminates the need for complex remote measurement systems while providing accurate real-time pressure data for control purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure measurement approach transitions from remote external measurement to internal direct measurement by placing the sensor within the body cavity dimension. This spatial repositioning enables accurate pressure monitoring without requiring complex external measurement infrastructure.
2Reliability
If pressure control is not accurate, then the insufflation system is simpler, but the safety deteriorates due to potential loss of visualization and patient danger
Solution Approach 1:
A feedback control system is implemented where the pressure sensor continuously monitors body cavity pressure and provides real-time data to the insufflator controller. The controller automatically adjusts insufflation based on this feedback, ensuring safe and accurate pressure maintenance without requiring complex manual monitoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure control system becomes self-regulating through the integration of the pressure sensor and controller, which automatically monitor and adjust insufflation pressure without external intervention. This self-service capability enhances safety by preventing dangerous pressure fluctuations while simplifying operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving, from a primary pressure sensor, a pressure measurement indicative of a pressure of a patient cavity and controlling, by an insufflator, a supply of the insufflation fluid to the patient cavity based on the pressure measurement from the primary pressure sensor. The method further includes delivering, by a trocar, the supplied insufflation fluid to the patient cavity via an access port, wherein: the access port comprises a seal and a retractor; and the access port facilitates access therethrough to the patient cavity.