Design and evaluation of a novel in-vivo laparoscope cleaning device

Laparoscopy is a method of minimally invasive surgery that is used in millions of procedures annually around the globe. Its usage trend is rising rapidly due to more favorable medical and monetary outcomes, especially when compared to open-surgery. One issue in laparoscopic procedures arises when the laparoscope lens becomes obstructed via condensation, bodily fluids, or tissue matter/residue. Currently, cleaning the laparoscope requires removing the scope from the body, wiping it on a sponge/cloth, and usually applying anti-condensation solution to the lens before reinserting the scope into the body. This scope cleaning process generates concerns related to medical and economic outcomes, with shows statistical correlation to higher rates of complications and post-surgical site infections with extended times under anesthesia. The ability to clean a laparoscope quickly and effectively inside the body stands to improve medical and monetary outcomes for numerous stakeholders. Current technologies show minimal adoption due to problems surrounding efficacy, compatibility, etc. This dissertation describes the analysis of customer needs relating to this medical issue in addition to the design and evaluation of a novel in-vivo laparoscope cleaning device to address the problem. Also included is additional discussion surrounding regulatory considerations of said device