Autonomous Surgical Stapler System with AI-Assisted Tissue Analysis
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation surgical stapler system that integrates AI-driven tissue analysis, autonomous loading unit adaptation, and real-time feedback to optimize staple formation, minimize tissue damage, and enhance surgical outcomes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent relates to disposable loading units for surgical staplers, but it lacks advanced features to address the variability of tissue types and the need for real-time adaptation. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing AI-assisted tissue analysis, autonomous loading unit adaptation, and real-time feedback to ensure optimal staple formation and minimize tissue damage.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a modular, AI-assisted loading unit that autonomously detects and adapts to varying tissue types, optimizing staple formation and minimizing tissue damage. The system incorporates machine learning algorithms to predict optimal staple placement and adjust firing parameters accordingly. Additionally, the system features a micro-robotic system that enables precision articulation and stapling of complex tissue geometries. The hybrid power source combines battery-powered and manual actuation to provide enhanced flexibility and reduced user fatigue. The system integrates real-time feedback and haptic guidance, enabling surgeons to optimize their technique and reduce procedural errors.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the use of AI-assisted tissue analysis, autonomous loading unit adaptation, and real-time feedback, which are not present in the original patent. The integration of machine learning algorithms, micro-robotic systems, and hybrid power sources represents a significant departure from the prior art, providing a novel and non-obvious solution to the problem of optimizing staple formation and minimizing tissue damage.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the AI algorithms used for tissue analysis, different micro-robotic systems for precision articulation, or alternative power sources such as energy harvesting or advanced battery technologies. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in various surgical specialties, such as cardiovascular, neurosurgery, or orthopedic surgery.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The autonomous surgical stapler system has significant commercial potential in the surgical instrument market, particularly in the areas of minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgery. The system's ability to optimize staple formation, minimize tissue damage, and enhance surgical outcomes could lead to increased adoption and market share in the surgical instrument industry.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/07207 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/00 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/0682 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/072 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/083 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/10 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1155 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/1285 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/29 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/3201 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/320016 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
| A | A61 | A61B50/30 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/00234 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00017 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0046 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00115 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00398 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00477 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00734 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07257 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07271 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2905 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2927 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2929 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2948 |
| A | A61 | A61B2050/3014 |
| A | A61 | A61B2090/0813 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Surgical instrumentation, specifically surgical stapling systems and loading units for medical devices, requiring advanced mechanical, electrical, and biomedical engineering skills with expertise in medical device design, biomechanics, and robotic surgical technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees in mechanical or biomedical engineering, familiar with surgical stapler technologies, robotic surgical systems, and emerging medical device integration techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the AI-assisted and adaptive surgical stapler system represents a predictable technological evolution of existing surgical stapling platforms, leveraging known machine learning techniques and robotic control systems to enhance existing surgical stapler functionality. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements that combine known technological elements in a manner consistent with advancing medical device capabilities. The integration of AI, micro-robotic systems, and adaptive feedback mechanisms are logical extensions of existing surgical stapler design principles.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,186 |
|---|---|
| Title | Proximal loaded disposable loading unit for surgical stapler |
| Assignee(s) | REVMEDICA, INC. |