Apparatus and methods for hybrid endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are described allow the techniques of endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery to be combined into a minimally invasive hybrid surgical technique called NOTES-assisted laparoscopic surgery. Manual and robotic-controlled versions of a modular laparoscopic tool are described having a small diameter shaft that is delivered laparoscopically to a surgical site. Larger diameter working tips are delivered through a NOTES delivery tube inserted to the surgical site through a natural orifice and joined to the shaft of the modular laparoscopic tool. Larger diameter working tips improve the effectiveness of the modular laparoscopic tools and the number and size of laparoscopic ports used can also be reduced.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for performing surgery. In particular, it relates to apparatus and methods that combine the techniques of endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery in a minimally invasive hybrid surgical technique. The apparatus and methods of the invention can be implemented using manual or robotic instruments.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Laparoscopy was an evolution from open abdominal surgery. Laparoscopy offered faster recovery, reduction in pain and less scarring post surgery. Compared with open surgery, where the surgeon manipulates the tissue and performs the surgery when the entire surgical field is exposed, the laparoscopic procedure required significant training. The learning curve was slow and it took a large number of procedures to be performed before the surgeon mastered the mental, as well as manual, demands of the technique and the procedure time was shortened.[0003]In the last few years, as pa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a device for surgical procedures that can be attached to the abdomen and controlled from a shaft. This device can hold a light source and can be used in laparoscopic or other surgeries to manipulate tissue without the need for a large incision. The device can also have a single shaft that can control different tips, reducing the need for exchange of shafts during surgery. Additionally, the patent describes a method for performing hybrid surgeries using both laparoscopic and NOTES tools. This can further minimize the size and number of incisions and ports needed for surgery.

Problems solved by technology

The learning curve was slow and it took a large number of procedures to be performed before the surgeon mastered the mental, as well as manual, demands of the technique and the procedure time was shortened.

The problem is that this approach requires the use of flexible and controllable delivery platforms and endoscopes so that they can navigate in the tortuous path of the GI tract and in between organs in the peritoneum.

For surgeons that are used to laparoscopy (rigid tools), it is not easy to get used to the image during endoscopy, particularly during retroflection with flexible endoscopes.

To the present inventor, however, this approach seems idealistic and somewhat short sighted.

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