An oocyte retrieval aid for reproductive medicine
By using a rigid outer shell, a flexible inner layer, and a vortex mechanism in the oocyte retrieval aid device, the problem of oocyte cold shock during oocyte transfer is solved, ensuring stable oocyte temperature and viability, and achieving seamless transfer to a constant temperature incubator.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511265996.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-05
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-21
- Estimated Expiration
- 2045-09-05
AI Technical Summary
The current egg retrieval and transfer process lacks immediate warming devices and dedicated constant temperature transfer equipment, which makes the eggs prone to cold shock during the transfer process, affecting egg quality and fertilization ability.
An oocyte retrieval aid device for reproductive medicine was designed. The oocyte retrieval device consists of a rigid outer shell and a flexible inner layer. The built-in heat preservation cavity is filled with phase change heat preservation material. Combined with a vortex mechanism and a multi-seal structure, it ensures that the temperature of the follicular fluid is stable and reduces mechanical damage during the transfer process.
It effectively maintains the temperature of the follicular fluid at 37℃, reduces temperature fluctuations to ±0.5℃, reduces the risk of cold shock to the oocytes, protects oocyte activity and fertilization potential, avoids mechanical damage, and achieves a seamless constant temperature culture environment.
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Figure CN120796043B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical egg retrieval technology, and more specifically, to an egg retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine. Background Technology
[0002] In oocyte retrieval surgery for reproductive medicine, maintaining oocyte viability is a core prerequisite for ensuring the success rate of assisted reproduction. The critical 10-60 second window between follicular fluid extraction and transfer to a constant-temperature incubator directly impacts oocyte quality due to its temperature stability and transfer efficiency. Current clinical procedures, lacking targeted temperature control and optimized operational design, have significant shortcomings that seriously threaten oocyte viability.
[0003] In the current transfer process, follicular fluid is extracted through ordinary plastic collection tubes and then manually transferred to a constant temperature incubator (37°C) at room temperature (22-25°C). Because ordinary collection tubes have high heat conduction efficiency and lack any insulation, the temperature of the follicular fluid drops rapidly with exposure time—approximately 0.5-1°C every 10 seconds. If the transfer time exceeds 30 seconds, the fluid temperature can drop below 34°C, creating a temperature difference of more than 3°C compared to human body temperature (37°C). As cells extremely sensitive to temperature, the oocyte is at risk of "cold shock" due to this sudden drop: on the one hand, the spindle apparatus (a key structure for maintaining chromosome separation) in metaphase of meiosis can become unstable due to low temperatures, leading to spindle depolymerization and directly affecting normal chromosome separation; on the other hand, 37°C is the optimal activity temperature for enzymes related to oocyte energy metabolism. Low temperatures inhibit enzyme activity, resulting in insufficient ATP production and a sharp drop in oocyte metabolic rate, significantly reducing subsequent fertilization capacity and embryonic development potential.
[0004] The core reasons for this problem lie in two aspects: First, the lack of an immediate heat preservation device. Existing collection tubes are made of a single plastic material, which cannot prevent rapid heat loss, and there is no dedicated constant-temperature transfer equipment during the transfer process, relying entirely on room temperature. Second, there are uncontrollable delays in the operational procedures. The distance between the operating table and the incubator (often exceeding 5 meters), information verification during the transfer process, and the opening and closing of the incubator door can all prolong the exposure time, further exacerbating the rapid temperature drop. With the increasing demands for oocyte utilization in assisted reproductive technology, the temperature control deficiencies in traditional transfer procedures have become a key factor restricting the success rate of the procedure. Therefore, we propose an oocyte retrieval assistive device for reproductive medicine. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide an egg retrieval assistance device for reproductive medicine, so as to solve the technical problem that cold shock is prone to occur during the transfer process.
[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides the following technical solution: an oocyte retrieval auxiliary device for reproductive medicine, comprising an oocyte retrieval device, wherein the oocyte retrieval device is provided with an oocyte storage cavity for storing follicular fluid, a partition ring is fixed on the top of the oocyte retrieval device, a plurality of opening and closing plates are installed on the top of the partition ring, the outer walls of the plurality of opening and closing plates are tightly fitted together to seal the oocyte storage cavity, a one-way valve port is installed on the outer side of each of the plurality of opening and closing plates, an infusion tube is connected to each of the plurality of one-way valve ports, a fluid guiding shell is connected to one end of the plurality of infusion tubes, and an infusion port is provided on the fluid guiding shell;
[0007] The egg retrieval device consists of a rigid outer shell and a flexible inner layer. The rigid outer shell is made of a rigid material, and the flexible inner layer is made of a flexible material. A heat-insulating cavity is provided between the rigid outer shell and the flexible inner layer, and the heat-insulating cavity is filled with heat-insulating material.
[0008] Preferably, the heat-insulating material is a phase change heat-insulating material, and multiple positioning posts are connected between the rigid outer shell and the flexible inner layer.
[0009] Preferably, the flexible inner layer is provided with a swirling mechanism, which includes a guide ring. The guide ring is an overall annular structure and is located in the upper half of the inner circumference of the flexible inner layer. Multiple guide vanes are connected between the outer circumference of the guide ring and the inner wall of the flexible inner layer. The multiple guide vanes are distributed in an inclined annular array.
[0010] Preferably, the swirling mechanism further includes multiple buffer film layers, which are located on one side of the one-way valve port and are made of elastic film material. The side of the buffer film layer is bonded to the central area of the inner wall of the opening and closing plate. The open end of the buffer film layer extends into the interior of the guide ring. The thickness of the buffer film layer on the side facing the one-way valve port is less than the thickness on the side side. The side of the buffer film layer is thickened.
[0011] Preferably, the liquid guiding shell includes an upper shell plate and a lower shell plate. The outer peripheral sidewalls of the upper shell plate and the lower shell plate are open. A one-way collar is installed on the outer periphery of the upper shell plate and the lower shell plate. A central shell is provided at the center of the inner periphery of the upper shell plate. The central shell is connected to the infusion port. Multiple diversion tubes are connected to the outer periphery of the central shell. One end of each diversion tube is connected to the interior of the upper shell plate and the lower shell plate.
[0012] Preferably, the diversion tube is a curved arc structure, and the direction of the curved arc of the diversion tube is the same as the direction of free rotation of the one-way collar. A bifurcated flow element is provided between the inner circumference of the upper shell plate and the lower shell plate. The bifurcated flow element includes multiple inner rotating blocks fixed to the inner sidewall of the one-way collar. The multiple inner rotating blocks are equidistantly distributed in a ring array. The multiple inner rotating blocks are connected by a bent connecting rod. The outer circumference of the inner rotating blocks is in contact with the infusion tube port.
[0013] Preferably, the plurality of inner rotating blocks are staggered at the output port of the infusion tube, and the infusion tube can be opened and closed when the inner rotating blocks rotate.
[0014] Preferably, the opening and closing plate includes an opening and closing curved segment, which is made of a material that deforms under heat, has a curved structure, and has a pointed conical sealing segment extending from one side of the opening and closing curved segment.
[0015] Preferably, the outer peripheral sidewall of the opening and closing plate is bonded with a side sealing layer, and the pointed conical end of the opening and closing plate is fixed with a sealing protrusion. Both the opening and closing plate and the sealing protrusion are made of flexible material.
[0016] Preferably, the egg retrieval device is equipped with a gas inlet for inputting carbon dioxide, and the gas inlet is provided with a one-way valve.
[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:
[0018] 1. This invention maintains a constant temperature of 37°C in the follicular fluid through multiple designs. The insulation cavity is filled with polyethylene glycol 4000, which has a phase transition temperature of 37°C. During transfer, it continuously releases heat, ensuring that the temperature fluctuation within the 10-60 second window is ≤±0.5°C, avoiding temperature differences that occur in traditional transfers. At the same time, the oocyte storage cavity is completely sealed by a triple barrier of "side sealing + end sealing + plate body fitting" through the opening and closing plate. The insulating material of the separating ring blocks external temperature interference. Combined with pre-filled carbon dioxide gas, it simulates the human physiological microenvironment, preventing cold shock problems such as spindle depolymerization and enzyme activity inhibition caused by low temperature, thus protecting oocyte metabolism and fertilization potential and solving the problem of cold shock that easily occurs during transfer.
[0019] 2. This invention also forms a "buffering-guiding" dual protection through a flexible inner layer swirling mechanism. When the follicular fluid is injected, it first passes through an elastic buffer film layer. Its structure, which is thin on one side and thick on the other, offsets the impact force of the water flow through flexible deformation, avoiding direct impact from high-speed water flow. After buffering, the liquid is guided by the inclined annular array of guide plates to form a swirling flow that rotates along the cavity wall, reducing the linear flow velocity. Centrifugal force makes the liquid evenly distributed, reducing collisions between the oocyte and the cavity wall, and between the oocyte and the cavity wall. The two work together to reduce the probability of collision, effectively protecting the oocyte from mechanical damage and maintaining its viability.
[0020] 3. The fluid-conducting outer shell of this invention achieves low-impact delivery through an arc-shaped diversion pipe and an interlaced opening and closing structure. The central shell breaks down a single water flow into multiple small-flow water streams, and the arc-shaped pipe disperses the impact force. The inner rotating block of the bifurcated flow element rotates directionally with the unidirectional shaft ring, interlacing to block the infusion tube ports, so that the follicular fluid is output in a "pulse-like" rhythm. Each infusion tube cycles through "brief conduction-brief closure". This design avoids water flow convergence and collision caused by simultaneous output from adjacent pipes. The pulse interval can also buffer flow rate fluctuations, simulate physiological flow characteristics, reduce the impact of continuous pressure on the eggs, and achieve zero mechanical damage during the delivery stage.
[0021] 4. The opening and closing plate of this invention is made of a thermosensitive material that deforms at 37°C. During transfer, it isolates the external environment through a multi-seal structure, ensuring that the follicular fluid is clean and at a constant temperature. After entering the 37°C incubator, the opening and closing curved section automatically expands, causing the sealing section to separate, and the inner cavity of the oocyte storage cavity is seamlessly connected with the incubation environment. It can replace the culture dish without manual operation. This design eliminates the secondary operation of "transferring to the culture dish" in the traditional method, avoiding the risk of environmental contact and mechanical damage during secondary transfer. The heat insulation properties of the separating ring protect the temperature during transfer, taking into account both convenience and protection.
[0022] 5. The inner wall of the oocyte storage cavity of this invention is coated with an inert polytetrafluoroethylene coating to reduce the adhesion and residual loss of follicular fluid; the positioning post between the rigid outer shell and the flexible inner layer restricts excessive deformation, ensuring volume stability and avoiding squeezing of the oocytes; the gas inlet injects carbon dioxide to create a physiological gas atmosphere, and the one-way valve prevents liquid and gas backflow; the multiple sealing structure blocks external pollutants and air from entering, ensuring that the follicular fluid is in a clean and closed environment during the transfer process; these designs ensure the stability of the oocyte microenvironment from multiple dimensions such as adhesion, deformation, and contamination, further reducing the impact of non-temperature factors on oocyte viability. Attached Figure Description
[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the half-section structure of the lower part of the present invention;
[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a half-section of the egg retrieval device in this invention;
[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the opening and closing plate in this invention;
[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sealing part around the opening and closing plate in this invention;
[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the buffer film layer in this invention;
[0029] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the upper part of the structure in this invention;
[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the opening and closing plate in the opening process of the present invention;
[0031] Figure 9 This is an exploded structural diagram of the liquid-conducting shell in this invention;
[0032] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the branched flow component in this invention.
[0033] Explanation of the labels in the diagram:
[0034] 1. Oocyte retrieval device; 2. Oocyte storage cavity; 3. Separating ring; 4. Opening and closing plate; 5. One-way valve port; 6. Infusion tube; 7. Fluid guiding shell; 8. Infusion port; 9. Swirl mechanism; 10. Side sealing layer; 11. Sealing protrusion; 12. Gas inlet; 81. Bending point; 101. Rigid shell; 102. Flexible inner layer; 103. Insulation cavity; 104. Positioning column; 108. Insulation material; 401. Opening and closing curved section; 402. Sealing section; 701. Upper shell plate; 702. Lower shell plate; 703. One-way collar; 704. Central shell; 705. Diverter tube; 76. Branching flow element; 761. Inner swirling block; 762. Bending connecting rod; 901. Guide ring; 902. Guide plate; 903. Buffer film layer. Detailed Implementation
[0035] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, this invention relates to an oocyte retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine, comprising an oocyte retrieval device 1, an oocyte storage cavity 2 for storing follicular fluid inside the oocyte retrieval device 1, the inner wall of the cavity being coated with an inert coating (polytetrafluoroethylene) to reduce follicular fluid adhesion, a separating ring 3 fixed to the top of the oocyte retrieval device 1, and multiple opening and closing plates 4 installed on the top of the separating ring 3, the outer walls of the multiple opening and closing plates 4 being tightly fitted together to seal the inside of the oocyte storage cavity 2, thereby creating an isolation effect when extracting follicular fluid to avoid external influences, and a gas inlet for introducing carbon dioxide installed on the oocyte retrieval device 1. 12. A one-way valve is provided on the gas supply head 12. The function of the gas supply head 12 is to fill an appropriate amount of carbon dioxide gas inside the oocyte storage cavity 2 to ensure that an excellent culture environment is achieved in a short time. One-way valve ports 5 are installed on the outside of multiple opening and closing plates 4. Each of the multiple one-way valve ports 5 is connected to an infusion tube 6. One end of the multiple infusion tubes 6 is connected to a liquid guide shell 7. An infusion port 8 is provided on the liquid guide shell 7. The infusion port 8 is rigidly connected to the tail end of the oocyte retrieval needle through a Luer locking connector (compatible with 17-18G oocyte retrieval needles). The interface has a built-in one-way valve to prevent liquid backflow.
[0036] The egg retrieval device 1 consists of a rigid outer shell 101 and a flexible inner layer 102. Multiple positioning posts 104 are connected between the rigid outer shell 101 and the flexible inner layer 102. The positioning posts 104 serve to position the flexible inner layer 102 and prevent excessive internal deformation. The rigid outer shell 101 is made of a rigid material, and the flexible inner layer 102 is made of a flexible material. A heat insulation cavity 103 is provided between the rigid outer shell 101 and the flexible inner layer 102. The heat insulation cavity 103 is filled with a heat insulation material 108. The heat insulation material 108 is a phase change heat insulation material, preferably polyethylene glycol 4000 with a phase change temperature of 37°C.
[0037] Working principle: Before the oocyte retrieval operation, an appropriate amount of carbon dioxide gas is injected into the oocyte storage cavity 2 through the gas inlet 12 (with a one-way valve to prevent gas backflow), so that the cavity forms a gas atmosphere similar to the human physiological environment, providing the gas conditions required for short-term oocyte culture; at the same time, the phase change insulation material (polyethylene glycol 4000, phase change temperature 37°C) filled in the insulation cavity 103 is preheated to a liquefied state. Its phase change characteristics can continuously release heat during the subsequent transfer process, maintaining the temperature of the oocyte storage cavity 2 at around 37°C, and avoiding "cold shock" caused by a sudden drop in temperature in the follicular fluid.
[0038] During oocyte retrieval, the infusion port 8 is rigidly connected to the tail end of the 17-18G oocyte retrieval needle via a Luer locking connector (the interface has a built-in one-way valve to prevent backflow). The follicular fluid extracted by the external oocyte retrieval equipment enters the fluid guide shell 7 through the infusion port 8, and then is injected into the oocyte storage cavity 2 through the infusion tube 6 and the one-way valve port 5 (to prevent backflow of liquid). During this process, the outer walls of the multiple opening and closing plates 4 on the top of the oocyte retrieval device 1 are tightly pressed together, and with the side sealing layer 10 and the sealing protrusion 11, the oocyte storage cavity 2 is completely sealed, isolating the temperature interference of the external room temperature environment (22-25℃) on the cavity, while preventing external contaminants from entering, and ensuring that the follicular fluid is in a clean and isolated state.
[0039] The polytetrafluoroethylene inert coating on the inner wall of the oocyte storage cavity 2 can reduce the adhesion of follicular fluid to the cavity wall and reduce the loss of oocytes caused by fluid residue; the positioning post 104 between the rigid outer shell 101 and the flexible inner layer 102 restricts the excessive deformation of the flexible inner layer 102, ensures the stability of the volume of the oocyte storage cavity 2, and avoids the oocyte morphology being affected by the compression of follicular fluid due to the deformation of the cavity wall.
[0040] During the transfer of follicular fluid to the constant temperature incubator, the liquefied phase change insulation material continuously provides a constant temperature environment of 37°C to the oocyte storage cavity 2 through the insulation cavity 103, offsetting the heat absorption of the external environment and ensuring that the temperature fluctuation of the follicular fluid does not exceed ±0.5°C within the transfer window period (10-60 seconds). The sealed oocyte storage cavity 2, together with the pre-filled carbon dioxide gas, further maintains the stability of the microenvironment required for oocyte metabolism, effectively avoiding the problem of decreased oocyte activity caused by sudden temperature drops and environmental exposure in the traditional transfer process, laying the foundation for subsequent fertilization and embryo development.
[0041] During the extraction process, the eggs in the follicular fluid are easily affected by high flow rates, resulting in collisions between the eggs and mechanical damage. In order to protect the eggs during the extraction process, the following structure was designed.
[0042] The flexible inner layer 102 is provided with a swirling mechanism 9, which includes a guide ring 901. The guide ring 901 is an overall ring structure and is adapted to the flexible inner layer 102. Multiple guide vanes 902 are connected between the outer periphery of the guide ring 901 and the inner wall of the flexible inner layer 102. The multiple guide vanes 902 are distributed in an inclined ring array.
[0043] The swirling mechanism 9 also includes multiple buffer film layers 903. The multiple buffer film layers 903 correspond to the positions of the one-way valve port 5 and are made of elastic film material. The side of the buffer film layer 903 is bonded to the central area of the inner wall of the opening and closing plate 4. The open end of the buffer film layer 903 extends into the interior of the guide ring 901. The thickness of the buffer film layer 903 on the opposite side facing the one-way valve port 5 is less than the thickness of the side side. The side of the buffer film layer 903 is thickened.
[0044] Working principle: When follicular fluid is injected into the oocyte storage cavity 2 through the one-way valve port 5, it first contacts the buffer film layer 903 corresponding to the position of the one-way valve port 5. Since the buffer film layer 903 is made of elastic film material, and the thickness on the opposite side facing the one-way valve port 5 is smaller than that on the side side (the side side is thickened to enhance structural stability), the impact force of the input follicular fluid will cause the opposite side of the film to undergo flexible deformation. This elastic deformation can directly offset the impact force of the water flow at the beginning of the input, avoiding the high-speed water flow from directly hitting the wall of the oocyte storage cavity 2 or the oocytes, playing the role of "first-level buffer protection". At the same time, the elastic reset characteristic can prevent the risk of rupture caused by excessive deformation of the film.
[0045] After being buffered by the buffer film layer 903, the follicular fluid enters the interior of the guide ring 901 through the opening of the film. The guide ring 901 is adapted to the flexible inner layer 102. Multiple guide plates 902 connected between its outer periphery and the inner wall of the flexible inner layer 102 are arranged in an inclined ring array to form a directional guide channel. Under the guidance of the guide plates 902, the follicular fluid flows along the inclined trajectory and gradually converges, eventually forming a swirling flow that rotates along the inner wall of the oocyte storage cavity 2. This swirling flow pattern can transform the linear input velocity of the follicular fluid into a spiral flow. On the one hand, it extends the water flow path and reduces the local flow velocity per unit time (the flow velocity is reduced by 30%-40%), reducing the scouring of the oocytes by the water flow. On the other hand, the centrifugal force generated by the swirling flow makes the follicular fluid evenly distributed in the outer periphery of the oocyte storage cavity 2, avoiding the problem of oocyte collision and accumulation caused by the concentrated impact of liquid on a certain area, thus achieving "secondary redirection protection".
[0046] Furthermore, the elastic deformation of the buffer film layer 903 and the directional flow guidance of the guide plate 902 work synergistically: the buffer film layer 903 adjusts the instantaneous pressure of the water input through deformation, avoiding sudden changes in flow rate caused by a sudden increase in pressure; the guide plate 902 guides the water flow to stagnate stably through the tilt angle (preferably 15°-20°). Under the combined effect of the two, the collision probability during the follicular fluid input process is reduced by more than 60%, and the flow rate fluctuation is controlled within ±5mL / min, effectively protecting the eggs in the follicular fluid from mechanical damage and maintaining their active state.
[0047] To provide further protection for the eggs, the structure of the fluid-conducting outer shell 7 was further designed, as follows.
[0048] The liquid guiding shell 7 includes an upper shell plate 701 and a lower shell plate 702. The outer peripheral sidewalls of the upper shell plate 701 and the lower shell plate 702 are open. A one-way collar 703 is installed on the outer periphery of the upper shell plate 701 and the lower shell plate 702. A central shell 704 is provided at the center of the inner periphery of the upper shell plate 701. The central shell 704 is connected to the infusion port 8. Multiple diversion tubes 705 are connected to the outer periphery of the central shell 704. One end of the diversion tube 705 is connected to the interior of the upper shell plate 701 and the lower shell plate 702.
[0049] The shunt tube 705 has a curved arc structure. The curvature of the shunt tube 705 corresponds to the direction of free rotation of the one-way collar 703. A bifurcated flow element 76 is provided between the inner circumferences of the upper shell plate 701 and the lower shell plate 702. The bifurcated flow element 76 includes multiple inner rotating blocks 761 fixed to the inner wall of the one-way collar 703. The design of the one-way collar 703 ensures that the bifurcated flow element 76 will only rotate in one direction when impacted. The multiple inner rotating blocks 761 are evenly distributed in a ring array. The multiple inner rotating blocks 761 are connected by a bent connecting rod 762. The outer circumference of the inner rotating blocks 761 is in contact with the port of the infusion tube 6. The multiple inner rotating blocks 761 are staggered at the output port position of the infusion tube 6. The staggered distribution can enable the relative infusion tubes 6 to open and close synchronously, avoiding the opening of adjacent infusion tubes 6 and reducing the possibility of collision during the output process. When the inner rotating blocks 761 rotate, they can intermittently open and close the relative positions of the infusion tubes 6.
[0050] Working principle: After the follicular fluid enters the central shell 704 through the infusion port 8 (with a one-way valve to prevent backflow), it is first diverted through multiple arc-shaped diversion pipes 705 connected to the outer periphery of the central shell 704. The diversion pipes 705 adopt a curved arc structure, and the curvature of its output end corresponds precisely to the free rotation direction of the one-way collar 703. When the follicular fluid flows in the arc-shaped pipe, the water flow impact force can be gradually dispersed by the curvature of the pipe, avoiding the sudden increase in flow velocity caused by straight delivery. At the same time, the design of multiple diversion pipes 705 breaks down a single water flow into multiple small-flow water flows, reducing the instantaneous impact force of each water flow, and laying a "low-impact foundation" for subsequent pulsed output.
[0051] After the follicular fluid is diverted, it enters the cavity formed by the upper shell plate 701 and the lower shell plate 702, and acts on the inner rotating block 761 of the bifurcation flow member 76. Since the inner rotating block 761 is fixed to the inner wall of the one-way collar 703, and the one-way collar 703 is only allowed to rotate in one direction, the impact of the follicular fluid will drive the inner rotating block 761 to rotate directionally with the one-way collar 703. Since multiple inner rotating blocks 761 are distributed in a ring array at equal intervals and staggered to correspond to the output ports of the infusion tube 6, the inner rotating blocks 761 will intermittently block or open the ports of the infusion tube 6 during the rotation. When a group of inner rotating blocks 761 leaves a port of a certain infusion tube 6, the infusion tube 6 opens and delivers follicular fluid; at the same time, the port of the adjacent infusion tube 6 is blocked by another group of inner rotating blocks 761, realizing "staggered opening and closing" to avoid the water flow from converging and colliding due to the simultaneous output of adjacent infusion tubes 6.
[0052] This staggered opening and closing control method allows multiple streams of follicular fluid to enter the infusion tube 6 in a "pulsating" rhythm: each infusion tube 6 is in a "briefly open-briefly closed" cycle, and the output follicular fluid presents an intermittent, low-flow-rate pulse pattern. The pulsating flow can avoid the follicular fluid impacting the oocyte at a single speed and pressure for a long time, reducing the continuous pressure and damage to the oocyte. Moreover, simulating physiological flow characteristics may be more in line with the natural survival environment of the oocyte, which helps to maintain the activity and function of the oocyte. At the same time, the pulse interval allows the follicular fluid to be briefly buffered in the tube, further reducing the flow rate fluctuation and reducing the probability of collision between the oocyte and the tube wall and between the oocytes during the transport process. Ultimately, it achieves the protective effect of "zero mechanical damage during the transport stage" and provides high-quality follicular fluid for the subsequent constant temperature preservation of the oocyte storage cavity 2.
[0053] To further improve ease of use and reduce the impact of the external environment, a structure that can be automatically opened in the cultivation environment is added here, as shown in the following figure.
[0054] The separator ring 3 is made of a thermally insulating material with poor thermal conductivity. The opening and closing plate 4 includes an opening and closing curved section 401, which is made of a material that deforms under heat. The material that deforms under heat is selected as a material that can automatically deform at 37 degrees (preferably a Ti-Ni-Cu ternary alloy in shape memory alloy (SMA)). The opening and closing curved section 401 has a curved structure, and a pointed cone-shaped sealing section 402 extends from one side of the opening and closing curved section 401.
[0055] The center of the opening and closing curved segment 401 is set as the bending point 81, such as... Figure 4 As shown, when multiple opening and closing plates 4 are closed, the bending point 81 is in a state of equilibrium without force. When in an environment of 37 degrees, the opening and closing bending segment 401 is subjected to force and bends, as shown. Figure 8 As shown, the bending point 81 is in an outward moving state. The separating ring 3 is made of a heat-insulating material with poor thermal conductivity, which can block the influence of the external ambient temperature on the egg storage cavity 2. This means that when heating, only the egg retrieval device 1 needs to be heated, and the heat will not affect the opening and closing plate 4, so as to maintain the sealed state.
[0056] To enhance the sealing effect, a side sealing layer 10 is bonded to the outer peripheral side wall of the opening and closing plate 4, and a sealing protrusion 11 is fixed to the pointed conical end of the opening and closing plate 4. Both the opening and closing plate 4 and the sealing protrusion 11 are made of flexible material.
[0057] Working principle: During the follicular fluid extraction and transfer stage, the separator ring 3 is made of a thermally insulating material with poor thermal conductivity, which can block the influence of external ambient temperature on the oocyte storage cavity 2. Combined with the 37℃ phase change thermal insulation material in the insulation cavity 103, the cavity is kept at a constant temperature. At the same time, the opening and closing plate 4 achieves complete isolation of the oocyte storage cavity 2 through a multi-seal structure: the side sealing layer 10 of the outer peripheral wall of the opening and closing plate 4 fills the gap between the plates, and the sealing protrusion 11 at the end of the conical sealing section 402 (both of which are made of flexible material) fits tightly. The outer walls of multiple opening and closing plates 4 are tightly fitted to each other, forming a triple sealing barrier of "side sealing + end sealing + plate fitting", which effectively isolates external air, pollutants and temperature fluctuations, ensuring that the follicular fluid is in a clean and constant temperature closed environment during the transfer process, avoiding the influence of contact with the external environment on the activity.
[0058] After removing the infusion tube 6 and transferring the device to the incubator / temperature control chamber (with the internal temperature maintained at 37°C), the opening and closing curved section 401 of the opening and closing plate 4 plays a role in temperature control deformation: because it is made of a thermosensitive material that triggers deformation at 37°C, the opening and closing curved section 401 will automatically undergo directional deformation in the constant temperature environment of the incubator. The curved plate body stretches along the curvature direction, causing the pointed conical sealing section 402 to separate outward. As the deformation continues, the opening and closing plates 4, which were originally attached to each other, gradually open, and the oocyte storage cavity 2 comes into direct contact with the incubation environment inside the incubator (such as a specific gas atmosphere or constant temperature environment). At this time, the device can be used directly to replace the culture dish without transferring the follicle fluid to other containers.
[0059] The entire process requires no manual operation, achieving a seamless connection between "sealed isolation during transfer and automatic opening during cultivation" through the temperature control properties of the material. On the one hand, it avoids the secondary operation of "removing follicular fluid and transferring it to the culture dish" in the traditional process, reducing the risk of oocytes coming into contact with the external environment during transfer, as well as the collision and damage to oocytes that may be caused by mechanical transfer. On the other hand, the temperature insulation properties of the separator ring 3 protect the internal temperature during transfer, while the automatic opening of the opening and closing plate 4 ensures rapid adaptation after entering the cultivation environment, balancing convenience and protection, and providing stable and continuous environmental support for oocyte cultivation.
[0060] The embodiments disclosed in this invention are preferred embodiments, but are not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can easily understand the spirit of this invention based on the above embodiments and make different extensions and variations, but as long as they do not depart from the spirit of this invention, they are all within the protection scope of this invention.
Claims
1. An egg retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine, characterized in that, The device includes an oocyte retrieval device (1), the oocyte retrieval device (1) has an oocyte storage cavity (2) for storing follicular fluid inside, a separator ring (3) is fixed on the top of the oocyte retrieval device (1), a plurality of opening and closing plates (4) are installed on the top of the separator ring (3), the outer walls of the plurality of opening and closing plates (4) are tightly fitted together to seal the inside of the oocyte storage cavity (2), a one-way valve port (5) is installed on the outer side of each of the plurality of opening and closing plates (4), an infusion tube (6) is connected to each of the plurality of one-way valve ports (5), a fluid guide shell (7) is connected between one end of each of the plurality of infusion tubes (6), and an infusion port (8) is provided on the fluid guide shell (7); The egg retrieval device (1) consists of a rigid outer shell (101) and a flexible inner layer (102). The rigid outer shell (101) is made of a rigid material, and the flexible inner layer (102) is made of a flexible material. A heat-insulating cavity (103) is provided between the rigid outer shell (101) and the flexible inner layer (102). The heat-insulating cavity (103) is filled with a heat-insulating material (108). The heat-insulating material (108) is a phase change heat-insulating material. Multiple positioning posts (104) are connected between the rigid outer shell (101) and the flexible inner layer (102). The phase change heat-insulating material is polyethylene glycol 4000, and the phase change temperature is 37°C. The flexible inner layer (102) is provided with a swirling mechanism (9), which includes a guide ring (901). The guide ring (901) is an overall ring structure. The guide ring (901) is located in the upper half of the inner circumference of the flexible inner layer (102). Multiple guide plates (902) are connected between the outer circumference of the guide ring (901) and the inner wall of the flexible inner layer (102). The multiple guide plates (902) are distributed in an inclined ring array. The swirling mechanism (9) also includes multiple buffer film layers (903). The multiple buffer film layers (903) are located on one side of the one-way valve port (5) and are made of elastic film material. The side of the buffer film layer (903) is bonded to the central area of the inner wall of the opening and closing plate (4). The open end of the buffer film layer (903) extends into the interior of the guide ring (901). The thickness of the buffer film layer (903) on the opposite side facing the one-way valve port (5) is less than the thickness of the side side. The side of the buffer film layer (903) is thickened. The separating ring (3) is made of a thermally insulating material with poor thermal conductivity. The opening and closing plate (4) includes an opening and closing curved section (401). The opening and closing curved section (401) is made of a material that deforms under heat. The opening and closing curved section (401) has a curved structure. A pointed cone-shaped sealing section (402) extends from one side of the opening and closing curved section (401).
2. The oocyte retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid guiding shell (7) includes an upper shell plate (701) and a lower shell plate (702). The outer peripheral sidewalls of the upper shell plate (701) and the lower shell plate (702) are open. A one-way collar (703) is installed on the outer periphery of the upper shell plate (701) and the lower shell plate (702). A central shell (704) is provided at the center of the inner periphery of the upper shell plate (701). The central shell (704) is connected to the infusion port (8). A plurality of diversion tubes (705) are connected to the outer periphery of the central shell (704). One end of the diversion tube (705) is connected to the interior of the upper shell plate (701) and the lower shell plate (702).
3. The oocyte retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The diversion tube (705) is a curved arc structure. The direction of the bending arc of the diversion tube (705) is the same as the direction of free rotation of the one-way collar (703). A bifurcation flow element (76) is provided between the inner circumference of the upper shell plate (701) and the lower shell plate (702). The bifurcation flow element (76) includes multiple inner rotating blocks (761) fixed to the inner sidewall of the one-way collar (703). The multiple inner rotating blocks (761) are equidistantly distributed in a ring array. A bent connecting rod (762) connects the multiple inner rotating blocks (761). The outer circumference of the inner rotating block (761) is in contact with the port of the infusion tube (6).
4. The oocyte retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine according to claim 3, characterized in that, Multiple inner rotating blocks (761) are staggered at the output port of the infusion tube (6), and the inner rotating blocks (761) can open and close the infusion tube (6) when they rotate.
5. The oocyte retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The outer peripheral sidewall of the opening and closing plate (4) is bonded with a side sealing layer (10), and a sealing protrusion (11) is fixed to the pointed conical end of the opening and closing plate (4). Both the opening and closing plate (4) and the sealing protrusion (11) are made of flexible material.
6. The oocyte retrieval assist device for reproductive medicine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The egg retrieval device (1) is equipped with a gas inlet (12) for inputting carbon dioxide, and the gas inlet (12) is provided with a one-way valve.
Citation Information
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