Vacuum Aspiration Handle With Segmented Lumen Control
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing liquids and particulate matter from patients are inefficient, requiring serial insertion and removal of medical devices, which is time-consuming and not suitable for fluid removal, and often difficult to control suction communication.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a sheath and handle that allows for controlled suction flow through a lumen, enabling simultaneous removal of fluids and particulate matter by connecting a remote suction source and using a trigger to manage fluid flow, along with a secondary lumen for tools like laser fibers to break down larger particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a medical device is used to mechanically remove particulate matter by serial insertion and removal, then particulate matter can be removed from the patient, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple separate medical devices into a single integrated device. The sheath with multiple lumens allows simultaneous passage of different tools (e.g., laser fiber, mechanical grasper) and fluid irrigation, eliminating the need for serial insertion and removal of separate devices. This merging of functions directly addresses the time loss issue while maintaining reliable particulate matter removal capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables continuous useful action by maintaining constant fluid flow through the sheath lumens during the procedure. The irrigation fluid continuously flushes particulate matter toward the distal end, allowing uninterrupted removal action rather than requiring repeated insertion cycles. This continuity eliminates idle time between device insertions while ensuring reliable removal of particulate matter.
2Productivity
If a sheath with lumen is used to provide fluid communication for suction, then fluid and particulate matter removal is improved, but selective control of suction communication becomes difficult and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is segmented into multiple independent lumens, each capable of independent fluid communication control. This segmentation allows selective activation of suction in specific lumens based on procedural needs, making operation easier while maintaining high productivity for fluid and particulate matter removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic control mechanisms that allow the operator to selectively open or close individual lumens during the procedure. This dynamic adjustability enables easy control of suction communication in different lumens, addressing the ease of operation issue while preserving the high productivity benefits of continuous fluid communication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools are needed to remove different types of materials, then comprehensive removal capability is achieved, but device complexity and procedural steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tools are nested within the sheath structure, with each tool occupying its own lumen or passing through the sheath. This nesting arrangement allows comprehensive material removal capability (adaptability) while consolidating multiple tools into a single integrated device structure, thereby reducing overall device complexity compared to using separate devices for each tool.
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 significantly reduces procedure time, enhances efficiency, and allows for selective control of suction, making it suitable for both fluid and particulate removal, improving the overall medical procedure by enabling efficient and controlled removal of materials from patients.
Implementation Method 1
a trigger movable between a first position allowing fluid flow through the internal flow path and a second position substantially preventing fluid flow through the internal flow path
Implementation Method 2
connecting a remote source of suction to the internal flow path within the handle to allow suction flow through the internal flow path and a first lumen defined within the sheath
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical device is provided. The medical device includes a sheath (400) with an extended distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and a lumen defined therethrough. A handle (330) is fixedly connected to the proximal end portion of the sheath, the handle includes an operator (60) that is translatable between a first position and a second position. A flow path (350) is defined within the handle in fluid communication with the proximal end portion of the sheath, wherein the operator is configured to substantially block the flow path in a second position and allow flow therethrough in a first position. The flow path includes a portion that is configured to communicate with a remote source of suction. The handle additionally includes a second inlet portion configured to receive a tool therethrough and allow the tool to extend through the lumen of the sheath.