Real-time Adjustable Surgical Stapler Buttress with Tissue Property Sensing

A novel surgical stapler buttress with a variable length feature that can be adjusted in real-time during a surgical procedure based on tissue thickness measurements, ensuring consistent staple formation and minimizing bleeding.

The original surgical stapler buttress with a variable length feature (US Patent) has limitations in terms of its inability to adapt to changing tissue properties during a surgical procedure. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by incorporating real-time tissue property sensing and adjustable buttress length, enabling surgeons to optimize staple formation and reduce bleeding.

The novel surgical stapler buttress system comprises a buttress with a variable length feature, a sensor for measuring tissue properties, and a control system that adjusts the buttress length in real-time based on the sensor data. The system allows for accurate tissue thickness measurements, enabling the surgeon to adjust the buttress length accordingly to ensure consistent staple formation. The buttress length can be adjusted manually or automatically based on the force required to compress the tissue. Additionally, the system can apply a hemostatic agent to the buttress to minimize bleeding.

The new claims introduce the concept of real-time tissue property sensing and adjustable buttress length, which is not present in the original patent. The inventive step lies in the integration of sensing technology with the buttress system, enabling real-time adjustments to optimize staple formation and minimize bleeding.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept include using different types of sensors, such as ultrasound or optical sensors, to measure tissue properties. The system could also be adapted for use in different surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgeries.

The novel surgical stapler buttress system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of general surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic-assisted surgery. The system's ability to optimize staple formation and minimize bleeding could lead to improved patient outcomes, reduced recovery time, and decreased healthcare costs.