Description:
Limited tool reach and maneuverability in laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures can present short term difficulties during an operation, as well as long term ergonomic issues for the surgeon.
A designer Zeta needle can bring fine 360 degree maneuverability and increased tissue penetration to such procedures. This is achieved using a needle that is bent into a potential energy- retaining conformation within an inner and outer housing. The housings can prevent needle deflection from needle-tissue interactions which can occur with flexible steerable needles. This device can also be customized and adapted for macro- to micro-scale procedures in various applications.
Key Benefits
- 360-degree maneuverability
- Increased tissue penetration in endoscopic and laparoscopic procedures vs. a conventional straight needle
- Engineering control avoids accidental needle sticks
- Customizable needle length and type to reach extraluminal tissues such as tumors or perturbed tissue outside of lumen
- Customizable for any macro- to nano-scale procedures requiring tissue penetration
- Adaptable for other applications requiring injection procedures where maneuverability and accurate deposition is desired
Potential Applications
- In channels within human or animal bodies:
- Combined with a syringe for drug/dye delivery, fluid extraction
- Collect tissue samples
- Embed, implant or deposit electrodes
- Injecting or withdrawing fluids from channels within nonliving things, such as:
- Wellbores and geological formations
- Within a machine or other structure
Intellectual Property Status
- US patent pending
- Available for licensing
Stage of Development
Pre-clinical, prototype fabricated