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Development and mechanical-functional validation of 3D-printed laparoscopic forceps
Carlos Magno Queiroz DA Cunha1, Ana Paula Bomfim Soares Campelo2, Lucas Buffat Sales3
1- Centro Universitário Christus, Mestrado de Inovação Tecnológica em Saúde - Fortaleza - CE - Brasil.
Revista Do Colegio Brasileiro De Cirurgioes
|June 19, 2024
Summary
3D printing enables the creation of affordable laparoscopic grasping forceps. This study validated a 3D-printed forceps prototype, demonstrating its functional capabilities for surgical simulation.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- 3-dimensional printing facilitates affordable additive manufacturing.
- Prototyping and production of surgical instruments, such as forceps, are now possible.
- Laparoscopic surgery benefits from innovative instrument development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the development of a laparoscopic grasping forceps.
- To 3D print and mechanically-functionally validate a novel laparoscopic forceps.
Main Methods:
- Computer-aided design was used to create the forceps.
- The forceps were 3D printed using polylactic acid (PLA) filament.
- Mechanical-functional tests were performed using a validated simulator.
Main Results:
- The developed forceps, named "Easylap", weigh 48g and measure 43cm.
- Production involved 8 pieces and took an average of 12 hours.
- The forceps simulated key functional characteristics, including grip, rotation, and locking, though material strength was a limitation.
Conclusions:
- Plastic laparoscopic grasping forceps can be successfully developed using 3-dimensional printing.
- 3D printing offers a viable method for producing specialized surgical tools.
