Integrated Wound Retractor Diffuser for Unobstructed Gas Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wound retractors require multiple complex steps for insertion and often obstruct the surgical workspace due to the need for additional instruments to deliver gases, and they struggle with varying wound geometries and limited space within the cavity.
Innovation Solution
A wound retractor integrated with a diffuser mechanism that delivers heated and humidified gases, reducing the number of components and eliminating the need for a separate diffuser within the cavity, with features like a diffuser interface, interface tube, and coupling mechanisms for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate diffuser instrument is used to deliver gases to the wound cavity, then gas delivery function is achieved, but the surgical workspace becomes obstructed and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wound retractor and diffuser into a single integrated device. The diffuser is positioned within the retractor structure, allowing gas delivery through the retractor itself rather than requiring a separate instrument. This merging eliminates the need for multiple components while maintaining both retraction and gas delivery functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated retractor-diffuser device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides wound retraction to expose the surgical site and delivers heated/humidified gases to the wound cavity through integrated diffuser elements. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate instruments needed in the surgical workspace.
2Reliability
If multiple instruments are used for retraction and gas delivery, then both functions are performed, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited cavity space
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the diffuser within the retractor structure, the patent reduces the number of instruments that need to be maneuvered within the limited surgical cavity. The single integrated device simplifies the surgical workflow and improves ease of operation while maintaining both retraction and gas delivery functions.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple retractor structure is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability to different wound geometries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor incorporates adjustable and flexible elements that allow it to adapt to different wound geometries. The structure can be modified or reconfigured to accommodate various anatomical configurations while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular or adjustable components.
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 integrated diffuser system provides efficient and controlled gas delivery to the wound, enhancing surgical access and reducing trauma by maintaining a favorable environment within the wound cavity.
Implementation Method 1
The diffuser interface comprises a diffusion mechanism configured for delivering gases in a diffusion direction
Data Source
AI summary
A diffuser for use with a wound retractor and configured to deliver gases includes an interface tube for connecting to a gases supply and a diffuser interface positioned at a proximal end of the interface tube, the diffuser interface configured for delivering gases received from the gases supply through the interface tube, and the diffuser interface comprising a diffusion mechanism configured to deliver gases in a diffusion direction. A wound retractor with an integrated diffuser is also disclosed. The wound retractor includes an upper ring, a lower ring, a sleeve extending between and connecting the upper ring to the lower ring, and an integrated diffuser interface having a gases inlet and a diffusion mechanism.