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Published on: January 7, 2019
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.
Introduction:
3-dimensional printing has enabled the development of unique and affordable additive manufacturing, including the prototyping and production of surgical forceps. Objective: demonstrate the development, 3D printing and mechanical-functional validation of a laparoscopic grasping forceps.
Methods:
the clamp was designed using a computer program and printed in 3 dimensions with polylactic acid (PLA) filament and added 5 screws for better leverage. Size and weight measurements were carried out, as well as mechanicalfunctional grip and rotation tests in the laboratory with a validated simulator.
Results:
Called "Easylap", the clamp weighed 48 grams, measured 43cm and was printed in 8 pieces, taking an average of 12 hours to produce. It allowed the simulation of the functional characteristics of laparoscopic pressure forceps, in addition to the rotation and rack locking mechanism. However, its strength is reduced due to the material used.
Conclusion:
It is possible to develop plastic laparoscopic grasping forceps through 3-dimensional printing.
