Digitalizing the life-saving mechanical surgical staplers, for better outcomes in the surgical field

Abstract

This paper attempts to demonstrate the need of implementing data transfer solutions from a mechanical surgical stapler to a display contained in a surgical image chain system, used broadly in any operating theatre, and bring a valid technical solution to fulfil this need. The object of the writing is to present a working electronic system that can be implemented in a circular surgical stapler and bring solid conclusions after testing on animal tissue. The setup contains an Arduino-based system that is capable to detect the pressure exercised on a tissue and display the results on a monitor that is easy to be seen by all the surgical team members, using a wireless connection. The system’s role is to provide information to every surgeon in the OR and give them the opportunity to make a collective decision regarding the moment of firing the surgical stapler, in the safest conditions.