For each issue, Surgical Products relies on its readers to share what innovations and technology they’re interested in. These last couple months have been full of developments and exploration in the surgical industry, and readers were curious to know more about one product in particular – Artisan Medical’s Joystick.
This device is designed to help surgeons complete laparosopic fascial closure by providing more visibility and access to the epidermis so suturing the dermis can be avoided. The Joystick, which is disposable, can be used for laparoscopic or robotic port closures, and is about 14 gauges in diameter. To learn more about the tool and how it can be used, Surgical Products connected with JJ Lees, of Artisan Medical.
(Courtesy of Artisian Medical)
What challenges did surgeons have that led to the development of this device?
Laparoscopic surgeons are challenged with closing port sites on large and obese patients. With the rise of laparoscopic and robotic surgery – surgeons need a simple, secure, and fast way to grab the “just right” amount of fascia to close those port sites on patients with larger abdominal walls to prevent herniation.
What factors contributed to the development of this device?
The factors that led to the development of the Joystick was an inability for surgeons to make their own decision on where to insert the suture and how big of an angle they could create. Before the Joystick every surgeon had to the use the same insertion point and same angle in trying to capture the “just right” amount of fascia no matter the size and anatomy of the patient.
How does this device improve laparoscopic port closure methods?
It gives the surgeon the ability to sink the Joystick to an insertion point and angle that they deem appropriate for each and every patient. It no longer forces them into something predetermined that may not work for every patient. It gives the surgeon the ability to give a custom closure to every patient no matter the challenges that different anatomies present to them. The raised handle also provides an open field of view which prevents inadvertent suturing of the dermis.
What are some features that set this product apart from others on the market?
The Joystick is simple and intuitive. Its ease of use sets it apart. It can be seen almost as an extension of the surgeon’s finger without putting the finger at risk. Many of the products on the market today are getting complicated. Lots of moving parts, flanges, anchors with questionable reliability. All with zero ability to make a custom patient centric closure. The Joystick simply puts control back in the hands of the surgeon.
For more information, visit: www.artisanmed.com
