A compliant tip reduces the peak pressure of laparoscopic graspers.
BACKGROUND
Previous studies have demonstrated that high pressures are generated at the tips of laparoscopic graspers, which can cause tissue injury. This study examines the effect of a compliant edge on tip pressure.


METHODS
One of a pair of identical laparoscopic graspers was modified by refashioning the tip out of silicone. A thin film pressure transducer (I-scan 6900 sensor) was deployed between the jaws of the grasper and a simulated tissue (leather strap). Load and handle pressures were kept constant. Peak tip pressure readings were taken as the load orientation was increased from the perpendicular to 135 degrees (n = 10). The data was analysed using anova and a post-hoc Duncan's multiple range test.


RESULTS
Peak tip pressures generated by the compliant tipped grasper were significantly less than those developed by the unmodified grasper, particularly at high-load orientations.


CONCLUSIONS
High pressures generated at the tip of laparoscopic graspers can be reduced by altering the mechanical properties (compliance) of the tip.
Division of Surgery, Orthopaedic Research Laboratories, UNSW, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.
Damian D
DD
Marucci
John A
JA
Cartmill
Christopher J
CJ
Martin
William R
WR
Walsh
D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008961:Models, Structural; D011312:Pressure / Q000009:adverse effects; D012828:Silicones / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013525:Surgical Instruments / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014160:Transducers, Pressure; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000209:etiology*
D012828:Silicones