Ultrasonic Surgical Clamp Feedback for Precise Tissue Force
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical instruments lack precise control and feedback mechanisms for clamping and cutting tissue during robotic surgeries, leading to potential inaccuracies and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a clamping sensor feedback system in surgical instruments, providing real-time feedback on clamp position and pressure to enhance precision and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time clamping sensor feedback is added to surgical instruments, then measurement precision and control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors detect clamp position and pressure in real-time, and this information is transmitted to the control circuitry that adjusts the actuator to maintain desired clamping parameters. This closed-loop feedback system resolves the contradiction by providing precise measurement while managing complexity through integrated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with automated servo mechanisms controlled by electrical signals and sensor feedback. This substitution reduces the need for complex mechanical linkages while achieving precise control through electronic feedback loops.
2Manufacturing precision
If sensor feedback system is implemented, then surgical precision and control are enhanced, but ease of operation decreases due to additional system management
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical instrument performs self-adjustment through automated feedback control where the system monitors its own clamp position and pressure, and automatically adjusts actuator commands to maintain optimal parameters without requiring constant manual intervention from the surgeon.
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time sensor feedback provides the surgeon with information about actual clamp performance, enabling precise control while the automated system handles the complexity of maintaining optimal parameters, thus improving ease of operation despite added sensors.
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
Improves the precision and control of tissue clamping and cutting by ensuring accurate alignment and force application, reducing errors and enhancing surgical outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor feedback may include a load cell sensor that detects clamp force
Implementation Method 2
the end effector of the surgical instrument includes a blade element that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies to cut and/or seal tissue
Implementation Method 3
These instruments include one or more piezoelectric elements that convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic surgical instrument that can be used in a robotic surgical system includes an end effector having an ultrasonic blade and a clamp arm pivotally secured relative to the ultrasonic blade for clamping a tissue therebetween. A shaft assembly extends proximally from the end effector and includes a tube, an acoustic waveguide received within the tube, and a sheath positioned between the acoustic waveguide and the tube to damp acoustic vibrations from the acoustic waveguide toward the tube. At least one sensor is positioned on at least one of the end effector or the sheath to measure a force applied at the end effector or the sheath as a measured force, respectively, and thereby provide real-time feedback of a clamping force applied between the ultrasonic blade and the clamp arm.