MECHANICAL PRINCIPLES OF THE OPERATION OF LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLING

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The widespread use of mechanical suture devices in visceral surgery and the continuous improvement of them requires a deeper knowledge of their mechanisms. In this work, these mechanisms are accessed through reverse engineering techniques, to improve knowledge of them, which must be shared by both engineers for their design and surgeons for their use and innovation. Methods A search was carried out in the databases of the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM), and practical work was developed in the laboratories of the Polytechnic School of Engineering, using specific instruments for an adequate “dissection” of linear mechanical endosuture devices, both manual and motorized or intelligent. Three-dimensional models of singular mechanisms and a descriptive analysis of the mechanisms used were carried out. Results The mechanisms used in linear staplers have been characterized and documentary materials and 3D formats have been developed for better understanding by surgeons. Conclusions The knowledge of the mechanisms involved in linear mechanical endosutures allows surgeons and engineers to face unforeseen events during interventions, propose innovations to both techniques and equipment, and changes that could lead to improvements in the life cycle (reuse, waste treatment) and associated costs.