Ohio Patent of the Month – April 2024
Standard Bariatrics, Inc., a leader in innovative medical device technology, has been granted a patent for a novel system aimed at revolutionizing bariatric surgery. Their latest invention focuses on preventing unwanted tissue migration in surgical staplers, addressing a critical need in the field.
Vertical sleeve gastrectomy, a common bariatric surgery procedure, often involves the use of surgical staplers to remove a portion of the stomach and seal the remaining portion. However, existing stapling instruments may allow tissue migration into critical areas, leading to potential complications such as leaks post-surgery.
Standard Bariatrics’ system incorporates several key features to prevent tissue migration and enhance surgical outcomes. The system includes a surgical stapler with an end effector featuring an upper and lower jaw configuration. Crucially, it includes a first tissue stop on the lower jaw’s distal end and a second tissue stop on the proximal end, defining a “no tissue zone” when the stapler is open.
To further fortify this barrier, the system introduces a tissue blocker mechanism. This mechanism comes in various forms, such as a rigid shield attached to the upper jaw, a flexible band extending between the upper and lower jaws, or a curved closure link spanning their proximal ends. These blockers effectively prevent tissue from encroaching into the no tissue zone during surgery, mitigating the risk of complications.
The system incorporates advanced software and sensor technology to enhance safety further. Audible, visual, and tactile indicators alert surgeons if tissue is detected within the no tissue zone, allowing for prompt corrective action. This innovative combination of hardware and software represents a significant leap forward in surgical stapling technology.
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