Interview with Tomasz Stomski
Vasco Electronics sp. z.o.o. S.K.A.
Red Dot: What was the biggest challenge in developing the Aesculap SQ.line clip applicators?
Quite clearly: the requirement to achieve the greatest possible perfection. The instruments should make no compromises in terms of ergonomics or technology, because that is exactly what users expect. Every team member was challenged to go the famous extra mile. The development required several optimisation cycles until every detail fits: from the surgeon’s good hand position and assembly with haptic and acoustic feedback to effortless disassembly for reprocessing. While the developers concentrated on mechanics and feasibility, the design focused on the ergonomic architecture of a universal handle. The size, shape and spacing had to be adapted to suit as many hand sizes as possible. A fully open grip must not be too wide for small hands and a closed grip could not be too narrow for large hands. Kinematics, precise feedback, balance and reduced pressure points could only be achieved by testing numerous prototypes and close collaboration between the development team, design team and surgeons.
Are surgeons a particularly demanding target group?
Our quest for perfection is no coincidence. Surgical procedures require a high level of precision – and the demands on laparoscopic instruments such as the Aesculap SQ.line clip appliers are correspondingly high. Surgeons rely on their instruments to achieve optimum results for their patients. Their demands reflect the high standards and great responsibility of their profession. Surgical instruments must therefore be ergonomically designed and precisely balanced to ensure control, accuracy and tactility.
