Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[1] The present disclosure relates to medical devices used in minimally invasive surgical procedures. More specifically, the disclosure pertains to laparoscopic retrieval bags designed to contain and retrieve biological specimens during laparoscopic surgeries.
BACKGROUND
[2] Laparoscopic surgery, a form of minimally invasive surgery, has become increasingly prevalent in modern medical practice. This surgical technique involves making small incisions in the patient's body through which specialized instruments and a camera are inserted to perform procedures. One critical aspect of laparoscopic surgery is the safe retrieval of biological specimens, such as organs, tissues, or tumors, from the patient's body.
[3] Traditionally, surgeons have used retrieval bags, also known as endo bags, to contain and remove specimens during laparoscopic procedures. These bags are typically made of flexible, biocompatible materials and are designed to be inserted into the body through small incisions. Once inside, the bags are opened to envelop the specimen, sealed and withdrawn from the body.
[4] However, conventional endo bags face several challenges in clinical practice. One significant problem is the potential for specimen fragmentation or spillage during retrieval. This may occur if the bag is accidentally punctured or torn by surgical instruments, or when the specimen is too large for removal intact through the small incision. Such incidents can lead to complications, including the spread of cancerous cells in cases of malignant tumors.
[5] Another issue with traditional endo bags is the limited visibility and access they provide once the specimen is enclosed within the bag. Surgeons often struggle to manipulate the specimen or perform additional procedures, such as morcellation (breaking down larger specimens into smaller pieces), without compromising the integrity of the bag and increase the risk of spillage.
[6] Furthermore, existing endo bags often lack effective sealing mechanisms to prevent the leakage of fluids or cellular material. This can result in contamination of the surgical site and potential post-operative complications.
[7] It has been appreciated that an improved laparoscopic retrieval bag is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.

SUMMARY
[8] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description.
[9] The present disclosure relates to specimen retrieval bag for use in laparoscopic surgical procedures. The bag comprises a first segment defining a proximal end and a second segment extending to a closed distal end, with the second segment having a hollow portion for specimen containment. The bag incorporates a dual-sealing mechanism with a primary sealing thread at the proximal end and a secondary sealing thread positioned below multiple access points. This design allows for secure containment of specimens and fluids while providing dedicated access points for surgical instruments.
[10] The specimen retrieval bag offers several advantages over conventional designs. The transparent medical-grade material allows for continuous visualization of the specimen during retrieval, enhancing surgical precision. The dual-sealing mechanism provides an additional layer of protection against fluid leakage and tissue dispersion, reducing the risk of contamination in the abdominal cavity. Furthermore, the strategically placed access points facilitate the insertion of various surgical instruments without compromising the bag's integrity, streamlining the retrieval process and minimizing the potential for accidental rupture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[11] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers
[12] FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a laparoscopic surgical setup utilizing a specimen retrieval bag, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[13] FIG. 2 illustrates a specimen retrieval bag device in an open configuration, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[14] FIG. 3 illustrates a specimen retrieval bag device in a closed configuration, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[15] FIG. 4 illustrates a first segment of a specimen retrieval bag device, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[16] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for specimen retrieval during a surgical procedure, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[17] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
[18] The present disclosure relates to a multi-access dual-sealing specimen retrieval bag designed for use in laparoscopic surgical procedures. This specimen retrieval bag may offer enhanced containment and retrieval of specimens, such as tissues, organs or tumors, during minimally invasive surgeries. The bag features a multi-access design, providing dedicated openings for different surgical instruments, such as an endoscope, forceps, and a morcellator. This design may facilitate easy access to the specimen and minimize the need for excessive force during insertion, potentially reducing the risk of bag rupture and subsequent dispersion of tissue fragments or fluids within the abdominal cavity.
[19] Further, the specimen retrieval bag also incorporates a dual-sealing system, providing an additional layer of protection against leakage or spillage of specimen contents. The primary seal may be positioned around the mouth of the bag, while the secondary seal positioned just below the triple access. This dual-sealing system may enhance the safety of the procedure by maintaining a controlled environment within the bag, even during forceful manipulation or morcellation of the specimen. The bag may be made from a transparent medical-grade material, allowing for continuous visualization of the specimen during retrieval. This feature may enable accurate placement and monitoring of the specimen, potentially improving surgical precision and minimizing contamination risks.
[20] Referring to FIG.1, the retrieval bag 200 is depicted with a multi-access design, which may facilitate the use of various surgical instruments during a laparoscopic procedure. In some aspects, the retrieval bag 200 may include three strategically placed access points 223, each designed to accommodate a specific surgical instrument. Additionally, the orifice of the bag may also be used to insert an instrument. For example, in some cases, an endoscope 102 may be inserted through the orifice of the bag, allowing for visualization during the specimen retrieval process.
[21] One of these access points 223 may be specifically designed to accommodate an endoscope 102. The endoscope 102 may be inserted through this access points, allowing for continuous visualization during the specimen retrieval process. This may ensure precise positioning of the endoscope 102 and minimize the risk of damage to adjacent structures within the abdomen 10.
[22] In some embodiment, another access points 223 may be designed to accommodate forceps 101 or graspers. Surgeons may use this opening to manipulate and secure the specimen 20 within the retrieval bag 200. This may be done without compromising the integrity of the bag's seal, thereby reducing the risk of unintentional rupture and subsequent spillage of the specimen 20 or associated fluid 30.
[23] In some embodiment, a third access points 223 may be designed for easy insertion of a morcellator 103. The morcellator 103 may be essential for fragmenting large specimens into smaller pieces, facilitating their removal through smaller incisions. The dedicated access points for the morcellator 103 may ensure safe and efficient morcellation while maintaining a sealed environment within the retrieval bag 200.
[24] In some embodiments, the number and configuration of access points may be varied to accommodate different surgical needs. For example, the retrieval bag 200 may include two to six access points, allowing for flexibility in instrument placement and specimen manipulation.
[25] By incorporating these access points 223, the retrieval bag 200 may enhance surgical precision, minimize contamination risks, and streamline the retrieval process. This design may also minimize the need for forcefully piercing the retrieval bag 200 during instrument insertion and removal, potentially reducing the risk of bag rupture and subsequent dispersion of tissue fragments or fluids within the abdominal cavity.
[26] As shown in FIG. 1, the retrieval bag 200 may feature four openings for instrument insertion. Three of these openings may be access points 223, while the fourth may be the orifice of the specimen retrieval bag 200 itself. This multi-opening design may provide surgeons with enhanced flexibility and control during laparoscopic procedures. The access points 223 may be strategically placed to accommodate various surgical instruments, such as forceps 101, endoscope 102, and morcellator 103. In some aspects, these access points may be designed with specific dimensions or shapes to match particular instruments. The orifice of the bag may serve as an additional access point, potentially allowing for the insertion of larger specimens or providing an alternative entry for instruments as needed. This configuration may enable simultaneous use of multiple instruments, facilitating more efficient and precise manipulation of the specimen within the contained environment of the retrieval bag 200.
[27] Now Referring to FIG. 2, the retrieval bag 200 is shown in an open configuration, revealing its internal structure and key components. The retrieval bag 200 may include a first segment 220 and a second segment 230. The first segment 220 may be located at the proximal end 200a of the bag and may include several components designed to facilitate secure specimen containment and instrument access.
[28] The first segment 220 may include a primary sealing thread 221 positioned around the circumference of the bag opening. This primary sealing thread 221 may serve as the first line of containment, ensuring that fluids and tissue fragments remain within the bag during the retrieval process. Below the primary sealing thread 221, there are multiple access points 223. These multiple access points 223 may be made of slitted lines 223a, where each slitted line may comprise two intersecting incisions forming a small cross-shaped in the bag material, forming dedicated openings for the insertion of surgical instruments, such as an endoscope, forceps, and a morcellator. In an embodiment, each slitted line may comprise two intersecting incisions having a shape without limitation plus-shaped, star-shaped, or circular or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the intersecting incisions may form other shapes to accommodate different surgical needs.
[29] In an embodiment, an intermediate space 225 may separate the primary sealing thread 221 from a multiple access points 223. These spaces may allow the bag to be withdrawn from the abdominal cavity with only the primary sealing thread and other portions of the bag remaining inside the cavity. In some embodiments, the spaces between the primary sealing threads and multiple access points 223 may be adjustable, allowing for customization of the withdrawal process based on the specific surgical needs. This secondary sealing thread 222 may provide an additional layer of protection against leakage or spillage of specimen contents.
[30] In an embodiment, separate lumens 224 may be present within the first segment 220 to house the primary and secondary sealing threads 221 and 222. These lumens 224 function as channels, with one channel designated for the primary sealing thread 221 and another for the secondary sealing thread 222.
[31] In an embodiment, heat sealing may be used to create the lumens 224 that house the primary and secondary sealing threads 221 and 222.
[32] The second segment 230 may form the main body of the retrieval bag 200. It may consist of a hollow portion 231 that expands outward to create a larger volume for specimen containment. The second segment 230 may be located at the distal end 200b of the bag. Within the hollow portion 231, a specimen 20 may be depicted, representing the retrieved tissue or organ. Below the specimen 20, small circles may represent fluid 30, which could be blood or other bodily fluids associated with the specimen.
[33] The retrieval bag 200 may be constructed from a variety of materials suitable for medical applications. The retrieval bag 200 may be made from a transparent medical-grade material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, polyethylene, or polypropylene, or any combination thereof. The transparency of the retrieval bag 200 may allow for continuous visualization of the specimen 20 during the retrieval process, ensuring accurate placement and monitoring. In a specific embodiment, retrieval bag 200 may be made from thermoplastic polyurethane.
[34] The primary and secondary sealing threads 221, 222 may be made of polyolefin, polypropylene and polyethylene, providing a secure seal around the specimen 20. In a specific embodiment, the primary and secondary sealing threads 221, 222 may be made of polyolefin.
[35] The retrieval bag 200 may have a volume capacity that is suitable for the retrieval of various types of specimens. In some aspects, the retrieval bag 200 may have a volume capacity of about 200 ml to 1600ml. This range of volume capacity may accommodate a wide variety of specimens, from small tissue samples to larger organs or tumors. In a specific embodiment, have a volume capacity of 1600 ml.
[36] In an embodiment, the retrieval bag 200 may have specific dimensions and measurements that contribute to its functionality and effectiveness in specimen retrieval during laparoscopic procedures. The dimensions and measurements of the retrieval bag 200 may be varied to accommodate different surgical needs. For example, the length and width of the retrieval bag 200 may range from 50 mm to 220 mm. In a specific embodiment, retrieval bag 200 may have a length of approximately 220 mm and a width of approximately 190 mm. These variations may allow for customization of the retrieval bag 200 based on the specific requirements of the surgical procedure and the size and type of the specimen 20 to be retrieved.
[37] In an embodiment, the thickness of the access points 223 is less than the overall thickness of the retrieval bag 200. The reduced thickness at the access points may be achieved through localized thinning processes.
[38] In an embodiment, the thickness of the retrieval bag 200 may range from 0.10 mm to 0.50 mm. In a specific embodiment, the thickness of the retrieval bag is 0.15 mm. The thickness of the bag access points 223 may range from 0.010 mm to 0.090 mm. In a specific embodiment, the thickness of the bag access points is 0.075 mm. The diameter of the bag access points 223 may range from 5mm to 25mm. In a specific embodiment, the diameter of the bag access points 223 is 10 mm.
[39] Referring to FIG. 3, the retrieval bag 200 is shown in a closed configuration, demonstrating the dual-sealing mechanism that may securely contain the specimen 20 and associated fluid 30. The retrieval bag 200 may include a hollow portion 231, which forms the main body of the bag. Within this hollow portion 231, a specimen 20 is shown, representing the surgical sample to be retrieved. Surrounding the specimen 20 is fluid 30, depicted as small dots, which may include blood or other bodily fluids associated with the specimen 20.
[40] At the upper part of the retrieval bag 200, two sealing mechanisms are visible. The primary sealing thread 221 is positioned at the top of the bag, serving as the first line of containment. Below this, a secondary sealing thread 222 is located, providing an additional layer of security.
[41] The primary sealing thread 221 may be tightened by holding the retrieval bag 200 with one forceps 101 and using another forceps 101 to tighten the primary sealing thread 221.
[42] After the specimen 20 has been retrieved and any residual fluid 30 within the retrieval bag 200 has been suctioned, a secondary sealing thread 222 may be tightened. This may be achieved by holding the retrieval bag 200 with one forceps 101 and using another forceps 101 to secure the secondary sealing thread 222. This action may ensure that no leakage occurs, providing an additional layer of protection against spillage or transfer of dissected tissue.
[43] In some embodiments, the retrieval bag 200 may be withdrawn from the abdominal cavity with only the primary sealing thread 221 and other portions of the bag remaining inside the cavity. This may be facilitated by the intermediate space 225 between the primary and secondary sealing threads 221, 222.
[44] The design of the retrieval bag 200 demonstrates a dual-sealing approach, with the primary sealing thread 221 and secondary sealing thread 222 working in tandem to prevent the escape of the specimen 20 or fluid 30 during the retrieval process.
[45] Referring to FIG. 4, the first segment 220 of the specimen retrieval bag 200 device is illustrated. The first segment 220 may be divided into three main sections: an upper segment with length L1, an access segment with length L2, and a lower segment with length L3.
[46] The upper segment, denoted by length L1, includes a lumen 224 for housing a primary sealing thread 221.
[47] The access segment, with length L2, may contain three distinct access points 223. These access points 223 may be positioned equidistantly along the length L2.
[48] The lower segment, indicated by length L3, may extend below the access segment. At the bottom of this segment, the bag may appear to widen, suggesting an expandable portion for specimen containment.
[49] The device's design may allow for the insertion of surgical instruments through the access points 223 while maintaining the integrity of the bag. The upper and lower segments may provide containment and sealing capabilities, enhancing the functionality of the specimen retrieval bag 200 during surgical procedures.
[50] In some embodiments, the lengths L1, L2, and L3 may be adjustable to accommodate different surgical needs and specimen 20 sizes. The ratio between these lengths may be optimized for specific procedures or types of specimens.
[51] The access points in the L2 segment may be designed with various shapes or configurations to accommodate different surgical instruments. In some cases, the access points may be reinforced to prevent tearing or expansion during instrument insertion and manipulation.
[52] The widening of the bag at the bottom of the L3 segment may allow for greater specimen capacity and easier manipulation of the retrieved tissue or organ. This design feature may facilitate the containment of larger or irregularly shaped specimens.
[53] In some embodiments, the length L1 of the upper segment may range from 30 to 50 mm. This range may allow for sufficient space to accommodate the primary sealing mechanism while providing flexibility for different surgical requirements. The length L2 of the access segment may range from 5 to 25 mm. This range may provide adequate space for the placement of multiple access points while maintaining the structural integrity of the retrieval bag 200. The length L3 of the lower segment may range from 10 to 30 mm.
[54] These dimensional ranges may be adjusted based on specific surgical needs, patient anatomy, or the nature of the specimen 20 to be retrieved. The flexibility in segment lengths may enhance the versatility of the retrieval bag 200, allowing it to be used in a wide range of laparoscopic procedures.
[55] In some embodiments, the length L1 of the upper segment may be greater than the length L3 of the lower segment. This configuration may provide several advantages during the surgical procedure. The larger L1 space may allow for easier removal of the upper portion of the retrieval bag 200 from the abdominal cavity, while the remaining portions of the bag stay inside. This design feature may facilitate a more controlled and gradual extraction process, potentially reducing the risk of complications.
[56] The extended L1 segment may also provide additional space for manipulating the primary sealing thread 221 and managing the bag's contents during the initial stages of removal. In some cases, this larger upper segment may allow surgeons to more easily grasp and maneuver the bag within the abdominal cavity, potentially improving precision and control during the retrieval process.
[57] The ratio between L1 and L3 may be adjustable based on specific surgical requirements or the nature of the specimen 20 being retrieved. In some aspects, this adaptability may enhance the versatility of the retrieval bag 200, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of specimen sizes and shapes while maintaining optimal functionality during the extraction process.
[58] Referring to FIG. 5, the method for specimen retrieval during a laparoscopic surgical procedure is depicted. The method may involve a sequence of actions from initial incisions to final extraction of the retrieval bag 200.
[59] Method may begin with the creation of three incisions in the abdomen 10. These incisions may facilitate the insertion of a trocar, which serves as a conduit for the retrieval bag 200, endoscope 102, forceps 101, and morcellator 103. In certain cases, incisions may be utilized: one acts as the main access point for the retrieval bag and instruments, while the other serves as an auxiliary access point.
[60] Following the creation of incisions, the trocar may be inserted into the abdomen 10, providing access for subsequent instruments. The retrieval bag 200 may then be introduced into the abdominal cavity through the trocar.
[61] Forceps 101 may be introduced through the lateral incisions, while the endoscope 102 may be inserted through the central incision. The forceps 101 are used to carefully open the orifice of the retrieval bag 200, enabling the surgeon to insert the specimen 20 without obstruction.
[62] The retrieval bag 200 may be insufflated with carbon dioxide (CO2) gas to create a suitable working environment within the bag. This insufflation may expand the retrieval bag 200, providing space for the specimen 20 and facilitating visualization during the retrieval process.
[63] The specimen 20 is placed into the retrieval bag 200 using instrument. Once the specimen 20 into the retrieval bag 200, a primary sealing thread 221 used to secure the contents. This may prevent leakage of fluids or tissue fragments during retrieval. The sealing process may include holding the retrieval bag 200 with one forceps 101 and using another forceps 101 to tighten the primary sealing thread 221.
[64] Endoscope 102 and morcellator 103 may then be inserted through the access points 223 located between the primary sealing thread 221 and the secondary sealing thread 222 in the retrieval bag 200. This may allow for minimal force application, preventing damage to the retrieval bag 200 or specimen 20.
[65] The morcellator 103 may retrieve the specimen 20, which remains visible through the endoscope 102, ensuring the surgeon have clear visibility throughout the process. After specimen retrieval, any residual fluid 30 within the retrieval bag 200 may be suctioned. If any fluid 30 remains.
[66] The endoscope 102 and morcellator 103 may be removed from the retrieval bag 200, followed by the forceps 101 and trocar.
[67] The endoscope 102 and forceps 101 then may be introduce from other incisions made by surgeons to grip the sealing thread for retrieval bag.
[68] Finally, a secondary sealing thread 222 may be tightened by holding the retrieval bag 200 with one forceps 101 and using another forceps 101 to secure the secondary sealing thread 222, ensuring no leakage occurs.
[69] The retrieval bag 200 may then be gently extracted from the abdominal cavity. This method may provide a systematic approach to specimen retrieval, ensuring both the safety of the procedure and the integrity of the specimen 20.
[70] The order of the steps of the methods described herein is exemplary, but the steps may be carried out in any suitable order, or simultaneously where appropriate. Additionally, steps may be added or substituted in, or individual steps may be deleted from any of the methods without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein.
[71] Aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples without losing the effect sought.
[72] It will be understood that the above description of a preferred embodiment is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. What has been described above includes examples of one or more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable modification and alteration of the above devices or methods for purposes of describing the aforementioned aspects, but one of ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many further modifications and permutations of various aspects are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.
, Claims:We claim,
1. A specimen retrieval bag (200) for use in laparoscopic surgical procedures, comprising:
a first segment (220) defining a proximal end (200a) of the bag;
a second segment (230) extending from the first segment (220) to a closed distal end (200b) of the retrieval bag (200) and comprising a hollow portion (231) for specimen containment;
a primary sealing thread (221) positioned around a circumference of the proximal end (200a);
a multiple access points (223) positioned below the primary sealing thread (221);
a secondary sealing thread (222) positioned below the multiple access points (223); and
an intermediate space (225) between the primary sealing thread (221) and the multiple access points (223), wherein the specimen retrieval bag (200) is made of a transparent medical-grade material, wherein the first segment (220) comprises an upper segment with length L1 and a lower segment with length L3, and wherein L1 is greater than L3.
2. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising slitted lines (223a) associated with each of the plurality of access points (223), the slitted lines (223a) forming dedicated openings for insertion of surgical instruments.
3. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein thickness of the plurality of access points (223) is less than the overall thickness of the bag (200)
4. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transparent medical-grade material is selected from the group consisting of thermoplastic polyurethane, polyethylene, and polypropylene.
5. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the primary sealing thread (221) and the secondary sealing thread (222) are made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyolefin and polypropylene.
6. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first segment (220) comprises separate lumens (224) for housing the primary sealing thread (221) and the secondary sealing thread (222).
7. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the intermediate space (225) is configured to allow withdrawal of the bag from an abdominal cavity with only the primary sealing thread (221) and portions of the bag above the secondary sealing thread (222) remaining inside the cavity.
8. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the length of the intermediate space (225) between the primary sealing thread (221) and access points (223) is adjustable to accommodate different withdrawal depths from the abdominal cavity.
9. The specimen retrieval bag (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the primary sealing thread (221) is configured to create a fluid-tight seal when closed and secondary sealing thread (222) is configured to provide an additional containment barrier when closed.
10. A method of retrieving a specimen using a specimen retrieval bag (200), the method comprising:
creating incisions in an abdomen (10);
inserting a trocar through the incisions;
introducing the specimen retrieval bag (200) of claim 1 into an abdominal cavity through the trocar;
inserting surgical instruments through the multiple access points (223) of the specimen retrieval bag (200);
placing a specimen (20) into the hollow portion (231) of the specimen retrieval bag (200);
tightening the primary sealing thread (221) to secure the specimen (20);
retrieving the specimen (20) using a morcellator (103);
tightening the secondary sealing thread (222) if any fluid (30) remains in the specimen retrieval bag (200); and
extracting the specimen retrieval bag (200) from the abdominal cavity.