Implantable Access Port with Rotatable Anchor Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical implants, such as gastric band systems, require efficient and minimally invasive procedures for attachment to patient tissue, with existing solutions lacking in ease of deployment and reversibility.
Innovation Solution
An implantable access port with rotatable anchor assemblies made of composite materials, including bioresorbable components, that can be easily deployed and locked into place using a manual tool, providing audible feedback and minimizing tissue rejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a gastric band system is implanted using conventional methods, then the implant provides therapeutic function for weight loss, but the implantation procedure is complex and requires significant tissue dissection
Solution Approach 1:
The implant device is divided into separate functional components: the gastric band portion and the access port portion. The access port is further segmented into a housing, anchor assemblies, and a septum. This segmentation allows for simplified implantation where the access port can be implanted independently through a separate small incision, avoiding complex tissue dissection required for integrated designs
Solution Approach 2:
A manual deployment tool is introduced as an intermediary device to facilitate the implantation process. The tool engages with the access port and automatically deploys the anchor assemblies when actuated, eliminating the need for complex manual suture placement and reducing the skill level required for implantation
2Reliability
If the access port is securely anchored to tissue, then the implant remains stable, but the deployment procedure becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor assemblies are pre-configured in a compressed, low-profile state within the housing before implantation. The anchors are pre-loaded in a ready-to-deploy configuration, and the deployment mechanism is pre-assembled. When the manual tool is actuated, the anchors automatically translate from the compressed state to the deployed state, achieving rapid secure attachment without time-consuming manual manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor assemblies are designed to self-deploy and self-lock into the tissue when actuated by the manual tool. The deployment mechanism utilizes spring-loaded or shape-memory components that automatically transition the anchors from a retracted to an extended position, and the anchors self-grip the tissue upon deployment, eliminating the need for additional securing steps
3Duration of action of stationary object
If permanent anchoring materials are used to secure the access port, then the implant provides long-term stability, but tissue rejection and chronic inflammation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor assemblies utilize composite materials combining biocompatible metals (such as titanium or stainless steel) with bioresorbable polymers. The metal components provide structural strength and long-term stability, while the bioresorbable portions degrade over time into harmless byproducts that are absorbed by the body, reducing chronic foreign body response and tissue rejection
Solution Approach 2:
The implant system utilizes materials with changing properties over time. The bioresorbable components of the anchors gradually degrade and lose mechanical strength as they are absorbed by the body, while the permanent metal components maintain their structural integrity. This parameter change allows the implant to provide strong anchoring initially, then transition to a more biocompatible state long-term
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 3C
AI summary
The present invention provides a system for attaching a fluid access port to a patient. The system generally comprises an implantable access port and a tool for attaching an access port to a patient. The implantable access port may include a plurality of anchor assemblies composed of two different materials. In addition, a mesh member may be attached to the base of the access port to facilitate implantation of the access port into a patient's body. The tool may have a rotatable actuator head, and may engage the access port in various orientations.