Enhanced Articulation in Robotic Surgical Instruments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved surgical instrument design enabling multi-planar articulation and enhanced dexterity for minimally invasive robotic surgery.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a surgical instrument with a single articulation joint, limiting its flexibility and accessibility in complex surgical procedures. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by introducing multi-planar articulation, enabling surgeons to access hard-to-reach areas and perform procedures with increased precision and dexterity.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced surgical instrument features a shaft assembly with multiple articulation joints, allowing for movement in multiple planes. This design enables the instrument to adapt to complex anatomical structures and navigate through tight spaces. The new claims also introduce a sensor-enabled system that adjusts the force transmitted to the instrument based on the detected force, ensuring safer and more controlled operations. Additionally, the inventive concept incorporates a real-time visualization system to provide surgeons with a precise view of the target site, facilitating more accurate and effective procedures.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a significant improvement over the original patent by enabling multi-planar articulation and integrating sensor-enabled force adjustment and real-time visualization. These enhancements provide a substantial increase in dexterity, precision, and safety during minimally invasive robotic surgery.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include different shaft assembly configurations, adjustable articulation joints, and various sensor types. Additionally, the system could be integrated with machine learning algorithms to optimize surgical performance and reduce complications.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced surgical instrument has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of minimally invasive robotic surgery. The target market includes hospitals, surgical centers, and medical research institutions, with potential for widespread adoption and revenue growth.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/07207 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/105 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/29 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/30 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/35 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/37 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/71 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/00234 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00309 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00314 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00398 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00477 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07214 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07271 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/07278 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2903 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2908 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/2929 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,189 |
|---|---|
| Title | Surgical instrument including first and second articulation joints |
| Assignee(s) | Cilag GmbH International |