Safety Device of Laparoscopes against Visual Obstruction

In video-assisted minimally invasive surgery, contamination of the distal optics is a significant and as yet unsolved problem. The innovation of the project consists of visual protection by creating a gas cushion in front of the laparoscope optics. For this purpose, the insufflation gases are guided through the distal optical element of the laparoscope and the resulting disturbances in the video image are corrected in real time by an electronic evaluation unit. To realize this approach, the necessary image processing in real time and the control of insufflation gases by a trocar-side output must be realized. The aim of the project is to create a functional model to demonstrate the functionality of the process. In the project, the interdisciplinary team will redesign the entire device, including the endoscope and control electronics.

The main work involves experimental and simulative research into gas flow and research into the necessary optics and image corrections. An in-vivo study will test the clinical manageability and effectiveness. If successful, approval according to MDR is planned. Schindler Endoskopie Technologie GmbH will then distribute the device and Delfi Innovations GmbH and infoteam Software AG will supply components and software. Existing patents will secure exploitation for the team.

The aim of the Fraunhofer IFAM Dresden sub-project is the simulation-based design and investigation of the distal optical element to reduce contamination. This is to be achieved by means of a suitable gas guide inside the laparoscope and on the distal lens. If successful, the safety of minimally invasive operations will be significantly increased and their duration greatly reduced by eliminating cleaning breaks. The main innovation of the sub-project is the implementation of multiphase simulations in the abdominal cavity in the area of the distal optics. These will be used to analyze and design the laparoscope. Dedicated numerical models for the gas supply and the behavior of the inert gas at the distal optics are to be set up to investigate the influence of various geometric parameters and boundary conditions as well as the interaction of the gas in the abdominal cavity.