Enhanced Tissue Manipulation Device for Prostatectomy
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved tissue manipulation device for prostatectomy procedures, featuring ergonomic grip, adjustable stiffness, detachable and sterilizable end effector tips, force sensors, and variable shaft diameters to enhance surgical efficiency and safety.
Background and Problem Solved
The original tissue manipulation device patent has limitations in terms of user comfort, navigation through tissue, and durability. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by incorporating features that improve the overall surgical experience and reduce the risk of complications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced tissue manipulation device comprises a handle portion with an ergonomic grip feature to reduce fatigue during prolonged use. The adjustment member is displaceably coupled to the proximal end of the handle portion, allowing for precise control. The securing member is coupled to the handle portion and extends along a member axis, providing a reliable and adjustable means of securing the end effector. The shaft portion features an adjustable stiffness feature, enabling the device to navigate through tissue with greater ease. The end effector is designed with a detachable and sterilizable tip, reducing the risk of infection and improving overall hygiene. A built-in sensor in the handle portion detects and alerts the user to excessive force being applied to the tissue, preventing potential damage. Additionally, the device includes a wire with a reinforced core to improve durability and reduce the risk of breakage. In some embodiments, the shaft portion has a variable diameter along its length, which can be adjusted by a control unit based on the type of tissue being manipulated.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce several novel features that distinguish the enhanced tissue manipulation device from the original patent. These include the ergonomic grip feature, adjustable stiffness, detachable and sterilizable end effector tips, force sensors, and variable shaft diameters. These features provide a significant improvement over the existing device, enhancing surgical efficiency, safety, and overall user experience.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the enhanced tissue manipulation device could include different grip materials, adjustable stiffness mechanisms, or various end effector tip designs. The device could also be adapted for use in other surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic or endoscopic surgeries.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced tissue manipulation device has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of urology. The device's improved features and performance could attract a large market share, with potential customers including hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0218 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00274 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00323 |
| A | A61 | A61M25/0136 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Surgical instrumentation, specifically minimally invasive surgical devices for tissue manipulation in urological procedures, requiring advanced mechanical engineering, medical device design, and biomechanical expertise
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or surgical instrument designer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in medical device development, familiar with endoscopic and laparoscopic surgical technologies, knowledgeable about ergonomics and device safety considerations
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the enhanced tissue manipulation device represents predictable incremental improvements to the existing surgical device design, utilizing known techniques in medical instrumentation to address common surgical challenges such as user fatigue, device flexibility, and safety monitoring. The variations represent logical extensions of the source patent's core mechanical principles, applying standard engineering problem-solving approaches to surgical device optimization.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,174 |
|---|---|
| Title | Tissue manipulation device |
| Assignee(s) | LSI Solutions, Inc. |