Widened Electrode Tips for Atraumatic Coagulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical coagulation instruments, particularly bipolar types, face issues with electrode instability and the risk of patient injury due to the small, thin electrode tips extending beyond the shaft, which are difficult to affix securely and pose challenges in handling.
Innovation Solution
The electrode tips are configured to widen distally, either constantly or in stages, with options for conical, fan-like, or thickened designs, and the addition of small plates for increased solidity and atraumatic handling, including rounded ends to reduce injury risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the electrode tip is made thin and small to extend beyond the shaft, then the coagulation precision is improved, but the structural stability deteriorates and patient injury risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is divided into two distinct sections: a thin distal tip for precise coagulation and a thicker proximal section for structural stability. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function - the thin tip provides precision while the thick base ensures stability during insertion and handling.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the electrode have different cross-sectional qualities. The distal end maintains a small cross-section for precise tissue contact and coagulation, while the proximal end has a larger cross-section for structural support and stable insertion. This local variation in quality resolves the contradiction between precision and stability.
2Area of stationary object
If the electrode tip is made thin and small, then the coagulation surface area is reduced for precision, but the risk of patient injury increases due to instability
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into a thin distal tip for minimal tissue contact and a thicker proximal section for safe handling. This ensures that the small coagulation surface area does not compromise patient safety, as the thicker proximal portion prevents instability-related injuries during insertion and manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode exhibits local quality variation along its length, with the distal end having small cross-section for precise coagulation and the proximal end having large cross-section for safe handling. This local differentiation allows the small coagulation surface to function precisely while the larger proximal section mitigates injury risks.
3Measurement precision
If the electrode tip is made thin and small, then the coagulation precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to secure attachment difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is segmented into thin and thick sections, which simplifies the manufacturing process. The thin distal tip can be separately formed and then attached to the thicker proximal section using conventional joining methods, making it easier to manufacture precise electrodes compared to creating a uniformly thin electrode that would be difficult to handle and attach.
Solution Approach 2:
The variation in cross-sectional size along the electrode creates different local qualities that facilitate manufacturing. The thicker proximal section provides a robust base for attachment to the shaft, while the thin distal tip maintains precision. This local quality differentiation makes the overall manufacturing process easier.
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 configuration enhances the stability and safety of the electrodes, reducing the risk of patient injury and improving handling by increasing the coagulation surface area and providing a more secure attachment during manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one electrode tip impinged with current... by means of which the current, with heat generated, enters the tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A medical coagulation instrument having a shaft as well as at least one electrode tip that extends beyond the distal end of the shaft. To create a coagulation instrument whose electrodes are of simple structure and ensure an atraumatic and safe handling, at least one electrode tip should be widened or be configured as widening in the distal direction.