In a recent patent (US20240122647A1), researchers from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven have developed an innovative device that addresses a core problem in surgery - the safe implementation of lasers during surgical procedures. The patent outlines an add-on device, designed to couple a laser fiber with a surgical instrument, offering a solution to the challenges that arise when using lasers in surgical settings.
One of the primary issues that this patent seeks to address is the increased collateral tissue damage and coagulation that can occur when using monopolar cautery instead of a CO2 laser. This coagulation can complicate margin assessment and potentially lead to the need for additional intra-operative procedures to remove coagulated tissue. The use of a CO2 laser offers advantages such as precise cutting, effective hemostasis for vessels up to 0.5 mm, lymphatic sealing to prevent tumor spread, and reduced thermal injury resulting in less postoperative edema. However, the current methods for incorporating CO2 laser functionality into robotic systems lack versatility and often require additional instruments or interrupt the surgery itself.
The patented device, known as the Robotic Laser Coupler, addresses these challenges by providing a flexible and controllable means to connect the laser fiber to the surgical instrument. The device comprises different elements that allow movement and bending without damaging the fiber. By incorporating an actuation element that can move relative to the coupling elements, the device enables easy translation of the fiber relative to the instrument. This flexibility is crucial in situations where access to confined spaces through small incisions, particularly in minimally invasive surgeries, is required.
A key advantage of this device is the ability to bend the fiber in a controlled manner. The patent describes the use of at least one artificial muscle as the actuation element, which provides controllable displacement, allowing the fiber and instrument to be introduced straight through a small incision. Additionally, the device may include a rigid sheath that protects the actuation mechanism from damage and simplifies assembly.
The Robotic Laser Coupler offers a particularly appealing feature for robotic surgery applications. It can be easily added to existing robotic instruments without the need for extensive modifications, making it suitable for various surgical specialties. Furthermore, this "add-on" principle avoids interference with cleaning and sterilization processes for robotic instruments, allowing for efficient and effective reuse.
Once implemented, this innovation is expected to have a transformative impact on surgical procedures. Surgeons will be able to use lasers more safely, benefiting from improved precision in cutting, effective hemostasis for vessels up to 0.5 mm, and reduced thermal injury, leading to less postoperative edema. Real-life examples of its application could include performing fine dissections during Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) or addressing bleeding from vessels with diameters exceeding 0.5 mm deep in the aerodigestive tract.
It is important to note that this patent (US20240122647A1) represents a significant advancement in surgical technology. However, as with any patent, there is no guarantee that it will successfully come to market. Nevertheless, the Robotic Laser Coupler demonstrates the potential for safer and more efficient surgical procedures, offering surgeons an improved tool for implementing lasers during surgery.
P.S. This article outlines a recently published patent (US20240122647A1) for a Robotic Laser Coupler developed by researchers from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven. However, it is important to note that being a patent, there is no certainty regarding its future availability in the market.