Uterine Manipulator Position Sensor for Laparoscopic Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
During a laparoscopic hysterectomy, particularly during the colpotomy procedure, it is challenging to ensure that the uterine manipulator is properly positioned to avoid injury to the ureters, as visual cues may be inadequate and tactile feedback unreliable.
Innovation Solution
The uterine manipulator incorporates a position sensor supported by the cervical cup, which identifies the location of the cervical cup, along with optional features such as magnets, vibrating elements, and fluorescent tags to enhance positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual cues and tactile feedback are used to position the uterine manipulator, then the surgical procedure can be performed with conventional tools, but the positioning accuracy is insufficient leading to risk of ureteral injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical positioning methods (visual cues and tactile feedback) with optical detection systems. Position sensors detect the location of the cervical cup and provide real-time positional information, eliminating reliance on imprecise mechanical sensing methods and enabling accurate positioning to prevent ureteral injury.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback system where position sensors continuously monitor the location of the cervical cup and provide real-time positional information. This feedback loop allows the surgical system to adjust and maintain precise positioning of the uterine manipulator, ensuring the cervical cup remains in the correct position relative to anatomical structures.
2Measurement precision
If multiple positioning features (sensors, magnets, fluorescent tags) are added to the cervical cup, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple positioning features (position sensors, magnets, fluorescent tags) into a single multi-functional cervical cup assembly. Each feature serves the universal purpose of localization but through different physical principles, allowing the same component to provide redundant and complementary positioning information across multiple modalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The cervical cup incorporates a composite structure combining multiple materials and features: position sensors for electronic detection, magnetic materials for magnetic field-based localization, and fluorescent materials for optical detection. This composite approach enables multi-modal positioning capabilities within a single integrated component.
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 use of position sensors and additional features allows for precise localization of the uterine manipulator within the patient's anatomy, reducing the risk of ureteral injury during colpotomy and improving the overall accuracy of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A position sensor is supported by the cervical cup. The position sensor is configured to identify a location of the cervical cup.
Implementation Method 2
at least one magnet is supported by the cervical cup as an alternative or in addition to the position sensor. The at least one magnet is configured to attract a metal surgical tool to identify the location of the cervical cup.
Implementation Method 3
a vibrating element is supported by the cervical cup as an alternative or in addition to the position sensor and/or the at least one magnet. The vibrating element is configured to initiate ureter peristalsis.
Implementation Method 4
a fluorescent tag is supported by the cervical cup as an alternative or in addition to the position sensor, the at least one magnet, and/or the vibrating element. The fluorescent tag is configured to emit light to identify a location of the cervical cup.
Data Source
AI summary
A uterine manipulator includes a housing and a shaft extending distally from the housing. An end effector assembly is disposed at a distal end portion of the shaft. The end effector assembly includes a cervical cup and a uterine manipulating tip portion extending distally from the cervical cup. A position sensor is supported by the cervical cup. The position sensor is configured to identify a location of the cervical cup.