Adjustable Anchor Frictional Interference for Anatomical Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anatomical support devices for conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse face challenges in secure anatomical fixation and adjustable tensioning, leading to suboptimal results due to unreliable fixation and complex implantation procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of an adjustable anchor system with a flange section and collar design that generates compressive force, allowing for frictional interference to inhibit bi-directional movement, enabling adjustable tensioning of anatomical support members through interconnecting members, and a surgical method using tools with helical curves to facilitate secure placement and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sling devices are used for urinary incontinence, then anatomical support is provided, but reliable anatomical fixation and adjustable tensioning are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the interconnecting member can be adjusted in length to modify the tension of the anatomical support member. This allows the system to adapt to different anatomical conditions and patient needs, resolving the contradiction between reliable fixation and adjustable tensioning by making the fixation dynamic rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of interconnecting member length to achieve different tension levels. By providing adjustability in the length parameter, the system can optimize both the reliability of fixation and the adaptability to various anatomical configurations, eliminating the trade-off between these two requirements
2Stability of the object's composition
If adjustable anchor system with collar is used, then frictional interference inhibits bi-directional movement, but adjustment requires sufficient force application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a curved or angled tip on the adjustment tool that matches the curvature of the channel in the anchor body. This geometric compatibility allows the tool to navigate the channel smoothly and apply force effectively, reducing the effort required for adjustment while maintaining stable frictional interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an adjustment tool as an intermediary device that facilitates the application of force to the interconnecting member. This tool acts as a mediator between the operator and the anchor system, enabling easy adjustment by translating user input into the sufficient force needed to overcome frictional interference without requiring direct manual manipulation of the small anchor components
3Reliability
If helical curve tool is used for anchor placement, then guide path facilitates secure placement, but tool complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates the helical curve geometry directly into the tool shaft during manufacturing, creating a pre-formed guidance path. This preliminary structuring of the tool ensures that the anchor follows the correct anatomical path (around the descending ramus and through the obturator foramen) without requiring complex real-time manipulation or additional guiding components during surgery
Solution Approach 2:
The helical curve in the tool shaft provides a smooth, continuous curved path that guides the anchor through the complex anatomical route. This curved geometry simplifies the placement procedure by mechanically guiding the anchor along the required path, reducing the need for complex manual steering while maintaining reliable placement security
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides secure and adjustable anatomical support, allowing for optimal positioning and tensioning of devices like suburethral slings, reducing the need for multiple incisions and enhancing the reliability of anatomical fixation, thereby improving treatment outcomes for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Implementation Method 1
the interconnecting member is disposed between the body and the collar, subject to the compressive force that generates frictional interference to inhibit bi-directional movement of the adjustable anchor along the interconnecting member
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable anatomical support includes a non-rectangular support body with a plurality of arms extending from the support body; an interconnecting member that is coupled to each of the arms; and an adjustable anchor slidably coupled to at least one of the interconnecting members to permit bi-directional movement along the interconnecting member and so configured to exert a compressive force generating frictional interference between the adjustable anchor and the interconnecting member to inhibit the bi-directional movement of the adjustable anchor along the interconnecting member unless sufficient force is applied to overcome the frictional interference.