Adjustable Arm Positioning Cushion for Radial Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arm positioning devices for radial cardiac catheterization procedures are cumbersome, uncomfortable for patients and physicians, non-absorbent, difficult to clean, and not easily adjustable to fit differently-sized patients, making them unsuitable for vascular radial access.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable, absorbent, and disposable arm positioning cushion that supports the patient's arm in a hyper-extended wrist orientation, featuring a forearm support and elbow cradle made from compressible and semi-absorbent material, with adjustable components to accommodate various sizes and secure the arm during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing arm support and alignment apparatus are used, then the patient's arm can be positioned during radial cardiac catheterization procedures, but the apparatus is complicated and difficult to position around a patient's body, making it uncomfortable to both the patient and the physician
Solution Approach 1:
The arm positioning device is divided into multiple independent components: a U-shaped cradle portion that receives the arm, a strap portion for securing, and an adjustable mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and adjusted, simplifying the overall positioning process while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable components that can be dynamically modified during use. The cradle portion can be adjusted to accommodate different arm sizes and positions, and the strap portion can be tightened or loosened as needed, making the device adaptable to various patient anatomies and procedural requirements.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If existing arm support apparatus are used, then the arm can be supported during procedures, but the apparatus is non-absorbent of blood and other fluids which may be spilled during the procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle portion is constructed from a porous, absorbent material that can readily absorb blood and other fluids that may be spilled during the procedure. This eliminates the hazard of fluid accumulation and maintains a cleaner, more hygienic environment during cardiac catheterization procedures.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If existing arm support apparatus are used, then the arm can be positioned, but the apparatus contain components that are difficult to clean to current hospital standards
Solution Approach 1:
The use of porous, absorbent material for the cradle portion eliminates the need for complex cleaning procedures. The material naturally absorbs fluids, preventing them from soaking into difficult-to-reach areas, and the simple structure allows for easy surface cleaning to meet hospital sanitation standards.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing arm support apparatus are used, then the arm can be positioned, but the apparatus cannot be easily adjusted to fit differently-sized patients
Solution Approach 1:
The device features dynamic adjustment capabilities where the cradle portion can be resized and repositioned to accommodate different patient arm dimensions. The strap portion includes adjustable fastening mechanisms that allow for easy customization to fit various patient sizes, making the single device versatile across different anatomies.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm positioning device is designed as a universal apparatus that can accommodate a wide range of patient sizes and arm configurations through its adjustable components. This multi-functionality allows a single device design to serve diverse clinical needs without requiring multiple specialized apparatus.
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
Enhances patient comfort, facilitates easier vascular radial access by positioning the radial artery for optimal access while reducing stress on the patient's wrist and forearm, and is easily disposable and cleanable, addressing the limitations of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
the cushioning material can be an absorbent or at least a semi-absorbent material which absorbs blood and other fluids which may be released or spilled during the vascular procedure
Implementation Method 2
The arm positioning cushion can be made from a compressible material
Data Source
AI summary
An arm positioning cushion for locating and supporting an arm of a patient above a base surface and in an orientation suitable for vascular radial access procedures. The arm positioning cushion includes a forearm support having a fingers contact surface at a first height above the base surface, an upwardly-curved wrist contact surface having an centerline apex at a second height above the base surface, and a first coupling portion. The arm positioning cushion also includes an elbow support having an elbow contact surface at a third height of the base surface, and a second coupling portion configured for linear-adjustable engagement with the first coupling portion to adjustably couple the forearm support to the elbow support. The third height is greater than the first height and less than the second height. In one aspect, the forearm support and elbow support may comprise a substantially homogeneous cushion material throughout.