Industrial Design · Medical Device
Hybrid Retractor
A hybrid surgical system that lets surgeons switch seamlessly between laparoscopic and open procedures — one instrument that eliminates the tool swap, the sterile-field break, and the wasted minutes mid-operation.
The Challenge
Minimally invasive surgery requires access through small incisions, but standard retractors weren't designed for the ergonomics or dexterity constraints of laparoscopic procedures. Surgeons were making do with tools designed for open surgery.
Research & Requirements
Shadowed OR procedures and interviewed surgeons to catalog the dexterity, force, and access requirements of minimally invasive retraction. Defined the mechanical and ergonomic performance envelope.
Mechanical Design
Developed an articulating retractor concept with hybrid rigid-flexible construction, enabling stable tissue retraction through small ports without sacrificing range of motion.
Prototyping & Validation
Built and tested functional prototypes through benchtop simulation and cadaveric validation to confirm mechanical performance before design freeze.
Outcome
A functional prototype demonstrating that full retraction capability is achievable through minimally invasive ports, with IP filed on the core mechanism.
