Extendable Ureteroscope Sheath with Cinching Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current kidney stone removal procedures using laser lithotripsy require additional time and cost due to the need to remove the laser optical fiber and then insert a separate retrieval device, which complicates the process and increases procedure time and expense.
Innovation Solution
A sheath assembly for an endoscope with a pliable segment and tensile filament that forms a cinching loop, allowing for the encapsulation and removal of calculus pieces without the need to remove the laser optical fiber, enabling the sheath to convert between open and closed configurations for efficient retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate retrieval device is inserted through the working channel to remove calculus pieces, then the calculus can be retrieved, but the procedure time increases and additional costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retrieval device functionality directly into the ureteroscope by integrating a collapsible basket mechanism within the scope's working channel. The basket can be deployed distally to capture calculus pieces and then collapsed for retrieval, merging the endoscope and retrieval device into a single integrated tool, thereby eliminating the need for separate device insertion and reducing procedure time
Solution Approach 2:
The ureteroscope is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both visualization capabilities and calculus retrieval capabilities within the same device. The integrated basket mechanism allows the scope to perform both diagnostic (visualization) and therapeutic (calculus removal) functions, making the device universal and eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools
2Reliability
If a separate retrieval device is inserted through the working channel to remove calculus pieces, then the calculus can be retrieved, but additional costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retrieval device functionality directly into the ureteroscope by integrating a collapsible basket mechanism within the scope's working channel. The basket can be deployed distally to capture calculus pieces and then collapsed for retrieval, merging the endoscope and retrieval device into a single integrated tool, thereby eliminating the need for separate device insertion and reducing procedure time
Solution Approach 2:
The ureteroscope is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both visualization capabilities and calculus retrieval capabilities within the same device. The integrated basket mechanism allows the scope to perform both diagnostic (visualization) and therapeutic (calculus removal) functions, making the device universal and eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools
Data Source
AI summary
A sheath assembly for use with an endoscope and an endoscope that includes the sheath assembly. The sheath assembly can include an elongate tubular sheath configured to thread onto a shaft of the endoscope. The sheath can include a pliable segment at a distal end of the sheath, and a tensile filament extends along a circumference of the pliable segment. The tensile filament can form a cinching loop at a distal end of the pliable segment. The sheath can be displaceable along the endoscope between a retracted position and an extended position. The pliable segment can extend distally beyond a distal end of the endoscope to form a chamber, and proximal displacement of the tensile filament tightens the cinching loop to convert the chamber from an open configuration to a closed configuration.