Autonomous Surgical Suturing System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation surgical suturing instrument that integrates artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced materials to revolutionize surgical procedures with enhanced precision, speed, and patient outcomes.
Background and Problem Solved
Current surgical suturing instruments rely on manual operation, which can lead to variability in suture tension, placement, and quality. The original patent's limitations in terms of user dependency and lack of automation necessitate a more advanced solution. The proposed inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing autonomous features, real-time feedback, and advanced materials to improve surgical outcomes.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The Autonomous Surgical Suturing System comprises a self-learning module that adjusts suture tension based on real-time tissue analysis, a precision-guided needle insertion system, and interchangeable suture modules with pre-loaded suture materials. The system also features a universal handle with integrated sensors for real-time feedback, a virtual reality-based training module for surgeons, and a data analytics platform for tracking suture performance and optimizing surgical techniques. The bio-absorbable surgical suturing material includes a self-healing matrix that promotes tissue regeneration and a nanotechnology-based drug delivery system for targeted tissue therapy.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The integration of artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced materials in a single surgical suturing instrument is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent. The autonomous features, real-time feedback, and advanced materials provide a significant improvement in surgical outcomes and patient care.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include a handheld device with a miniature robotic arm, a laparoscopic instrument with a precision-guided needle insertion system, or a modular system with interchangeable components for various surgical procedures. Variations may include different types of advanced materials, such as shape-memory alloys or biodegradable polymers, or alternative machine learning algorithms for tissue analysis.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Autonomous Surgical Suturing System has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, with target markets including hospitals, surgical centers, and medical research institutions. The system's ability to improve surgical outcomes, reduce recovery time, and enhance patient care positions it for widespread adoption and market growth.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0483 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/0467 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Surgical instrumentation and medical device technologies, specifically focused on suturing systems and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Requires expertise in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, and advanced medical device design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or surgical instrument designer with advanced degrees, 5-10 years of experience in medical device development, familiar with robotic surgical technologies, materials science, and advanced manufacturing techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the source patent's fundamental suturing device architecture provides a natural technological foundation for integrating advanced computational and robotic capabilities. The core mechanical principles of suture placement and tissue manipulation are directly extensible to more sophisticated autonomous systems. The incremental technological improvements proposed in the PTD represent predictable advancements using known techniques in robotics, machine learning, and medical device design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,178 |
|---|---|
| Title | Surgical suturing instrument |