Adjustable Anchor Frictional Interference for Anatomical Sling Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anatomical support devices for conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse face challenges in reliable anatomical fixation and adjustment, leading to suboptimal results due to difficulties in implantation and tensioning.
Innovation Solution
The development of implantable devices featuring a sling with adjustable and fixed anchors connected by interconnecting members, such as sutures, which utilize frictional interference to allow for bi-directional movement and tensioning, enabling secure placement and adjustment within anatomical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sling devices are used for urinary incontinence treatment, then anatomical support is provided, but reliable anatomical fixation and adjustment are difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is designed with a frictional interference mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment during implantation. The interconnecting member can slide through the anchor with frictional resistance, enabling the surgeon to adjust tension and position intraoperatively before final fixation, thus achieving both ease of operation and reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes frictional interference as a controllable parameter. By designing the anchor and interconnecting member with specific dimensional relationships, the friction force can be optimized to provide adjustable yet secure fixation, resolving the contradiction between ease of implantation and fixation reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional sling devices are used, then support is provided, but adjustment and tensioning are unacceptable
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor allows bidirectional adjustment of the interconnecting member through its frictional interference mechanism. This dynamic capability enables precise tensioning adjustments while maintaining reliable fixation, as the friction holds the adjusted position securely once set.
3Reliability
If anchors are made secure to prevent movement, then fixation reliability improves, but adjustment capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor provides dynamic fixation security through frictional interference. During adjustment, the interconnecting member can slide through the anchor with controlled friction. Once the desired position and tension are achieved, the frictional force maintains secure fixation without preventing the adjustment process itself.
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
These devices provide reliable anatomical support by allowing for precise adjustment and secure anchoring, inhibiting movement during provocative events, thus improving treatment outcomes for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Implementation Method 1
configured to exert a compressive force generating frictional interference between the adjustable anchor and the first interconnecting member, to inhibit the bi-directional movement of the adjustable anchor along the first interconnecting member
Implementation Method 2
configured to exert a compressive force generating frictional interference between the tensioning element and the first interconnecting member, to inhibit the movement of the tensioning element along the first interconnecting member
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable device for anatomical support includes a sling, a first interconnecting member that is coupled to the sling, and a second interconnecting member that is coupled to the sling. An adjustable anchor is slidably coupled to the first interconnecting member to permit bidirectional movement along the first interconnecting member, and configured to exert a compressive force generating frictional interference between the adjustable anchor and the first interconnecting member, to inhibit the bi-directional movement of the adjustable anchor along the first interconnecting member unless sufficient force is applied to overcome the frictional interference. Also, a fixed anchor is fixedly coupled to the second interconnecting member.