Adaptive Helical Lumen Surgical Instrument System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation surgical instrument system featuring an adaptive helical lumen that optimizes tissue engagement during minimally invasive surgical procedures, enhancing precision, reducing trauma, and improving patient outcomes.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a surgical instrument with a helical lumen, but it had limitations in terms of adaptability and real-time adjustment. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by incorporating advanced technologies, such as adaptive axis adjustment mechanisms, real-time tissue analysis, and integrated tissue sensing modules, to create a more efficient, effective, and patient-centric surgical experience.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive helical lumen surgical instrument system comprises an end effector with a helical lumen, an adaptive axis adjustment mechanism, and a real-time tissue analysis module. The mechanism dynamically adjusts the helical lumen during the procedure to accommodate varying tissue types and geometries, ensuring optimal tissue engagement and minimizing trauma. The system can be integrated with robotic-assisted surgical systems, allowing for real-time feedback and optimization. Interchangeable end effectors with helical lumens of varying geometries and sizes can be easily swapped during a procedure, making the system highly versatile and adaptable to different surgical procedures.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces a paradigm shift in surgical instrument design by incorporating adaptive technologies that enable real-time adjustment and optimization of the helical lumen. This innovation is non-obvious compared to the original patent, which lacked these advanced features and relied on fixed, pre-determined helical lumen configurations.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms, or other advanced technologies to further enhance the adaptive capabilities of the helical lumen. Variations of the system could be designed for specific surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic or endoscopic surgeries, or for use in different medical specialties, such as cardiothoracic or neurosurgery.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive helical lumen surgical instrument system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted surgery, and surgical instrumentation. The system's adaptability, precision, and patient-centric design make it an attractive solution for hospitals, surgical centers, and medical professionals seeking to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Minimally invasive surgical instrument design, with expertise in robotic surgical systems, articulating mechanisms, and end effector technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees in mechanical engineering or biomedical engineering, 5-10 years of experience in surgical instrument development, familiar with robotic surgical platforms and tissue engagement mechanisms
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the adaptive helical lumen concept represents a predictable extension of the source patent's articulation joint technology. The core mechanical principles of helical lumens and articulating surgical instruments are well-established, making the proposed adaptive mechanism a logical progression of existing surgical instrument design. The integration of real-time adjustment and tissue sensing represents an incremental improvement rather than a fundamental technological breakthrough.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,283 |
|---|---|
| Title | Articulation joint with helical lumen |
| Assignee(s) | Cilag GmbH International |