Intro Sentence: Researchers from the UCLA Jules Stein Eye Institute have developed a novel multi-use surgical instrument for improved oculoplastic surgical outcomes.
Background: Oculoplastic surgeries are very common in the United States, with approximately 325,000 blepharoplasties alone performed annually. Suturing during this procedure requires several separate instruments, including a needle holder, forceps and scissors. As the surgeon swaps instruments to perform suturing, surgical flow may be disrupted. This often necessitates a surgical assistant, increasing operative time, costs, and resource allocation. Furthering these issues, existing microsurgical instruments do not offer a combined needle holder with a scissor component. State of the art multifunctional instruments are designed for large-scale operations, and as such lack the precision and control required for delicate small-scale microsurgical operations. There remains an unmet clinical need for a microsurgical needle holder with an integrated cutting surface for improved suturing during oculoplastic and facial plastic surgery procedures.
Innovation: To address these needs, UCLA researchers from the Jules Stein Eye Institute have developed the Microsurgical Cutting Needle Holder, which utilizes a needle holder with an integrated cutting mechanism. This innovative technology combines the microsurgical precision of a locking needle holder with a scissor tip. This allows the surgeon alone to place, tie and cut the suture without the need for assistance. The proposed device adapts the handle and locking mechanism of tools typically used in delicate operations to include a cutting surface, allowing for a multifunctional needle holder. This technology can significantly increase surgical efficiency, reducing operative time and staffing pressures.
Demonstration Video:
Cutting Needle Holder: UCLA Stein Eye Institute - Maria Paula Quintero, Erin NaPier, Taras Gout
Potential Applications: • Facial surgeries • Oculoplastic surgeries • Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeries • Microsurgery Specialties - ENT, Vascular & Cardiothoracic
Advantages: • Higher surgical & time efficiency • Reduced staffing demand • Improved ergonomics • Enhanced precision
Development-To-Date: The first demonstration of the invention is complete; showcased at the UCLA 2024 MedTech Conference.
Reference: UCLA Case No. 2024-120