Enhanced Surgical Stapling Assembly with Advanced Materials and Coatings
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept introduces a range of direct improvements and enhancements to the original stapling assembly components, focusing on durability, efficiency, and safety. The new design incorporates advanced materials and coatings, such as ceramic, nanocoating, antimicrobial agents, and carbon fibers, to create a more reliable and effective surgical stapling device.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described stapling assembly components with metal substrates and plastic bodies, which, although effective, still had limitations. The metal substrates were prone to corrosion, and the plastic bodies could be brittle and prone to cracking. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced materials and coatings that improve durability, reduce friction, and minimize the risk of infection.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced surgical stapling assembly comprises a metal substrate reinforced with a ceramic coating to improve durability and resistance to corrosion. The stapling cartridge features a metal substrate treated with a nanocoating to reduce friction and improve staple deployment. The channel retainer incorporates a plastic body infused with antimicrobial agents to reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, the plastic body can be reinforced with carbon fibers to improve strength and reduce weight. The manufacturing process involves forming the metal substrate, printing the plastic body onto it, and treating the metal substrate with a corrosion-resistant coating.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a range of novel and non-obvious features, including the use of ceramic coatings, nanocoatings, antimicrobial agents, and carbon fibers. These advancements provide a significant improvement over the original patent, addressing specific limitations and providing a more reliable and effective surgical stapling device.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of other advanced materials, such as titanium or silver, to further improve durability and antimicrobial properties. The design could also be adapted for use in other surgical instruments, such as cutting devices or endoscopes.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced surgical stapling assembly has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of minimally invasive surgery and laparoscopic procedures. The target market includes hospitals, surgical centers, and medical device manufacturers, who will benefit from the improved performance, safety, and efficiency of the new device.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/072 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/07207 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/115 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0042 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00398 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07214 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07264 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07271 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07278 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07285 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2927 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2933 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/302 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,183 |
|---|---|
| Title | Stapling assembly components having metal substrates and plastic bodies |
| Assignee(s) | Cilag GmbH International |