Adjustable Medical Assembly for Implant Tension Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical devices lack the capability to adjust implant tension directly from the delivery device during procedures, both pre-operatively and intra-operatively, which is essential for ensuring proper support and function of anatomical tissues.
Innovation Solution
A medical assembly comprising an insertion tool with an adjustment mechanism and locking mechanism that allows for the adjustment and locking of a flexible elongate member's length between a carrier and a bodily implant, enabling tension adjustment and secure fixation within the insertion tool, facilitating both pre-operative and intra-operative tension adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing surgical devices are used, then implant delivery is possible, but tension adjustment cannot be performed directly from the delivery device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tension adjustment mechanism with the delivery device by integrating an adjustment mechanism and locking mechanism directly into the delivery device structure. This allows the delivery device to perform both delivery and tension adjustment functions, eliminating the need for separate external devices and resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the elongate member length to be modified during the delivery process. The adjustment mechanism enables real-time tension adjustment while the locking mechanism secures the desired position, providing dynamic control over implant tension directly from the delivery device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tension adjustment is performed externally, then adjustment is possible, but pre-operative and intra-operative adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary tension adjustment to be performed before implant insertion by allowing the operator to adjust the elongate member length while the device is still accessible outside the patient's body. The locking mechanism secures the pre-adjusted tension, and the device is then inserted in the adjusted state, providing both pre-operative and intra-operative adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery device acts as an intermediary that maintains the connection between the operator and the implant tension control throughout the procedure. The adjustment and locking mechanisms provide a mechanical interface that allows tension control both before and during insertion, bridging the gap between pre-operative planning and intra-operative adjustment needs.
3Ease of operation
If the elongate member length is fixed, then structural simplicity is maintained, but implant tension cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the elongate member into adjustable portions by introducing adjustment and locking mechanisms that can modify the effective length of the member. These mechanisms create discrete adjustment segments or steps, allowing tension adjustment through segmented length changes rather than continuous modification, which simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining adjustability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a medical assembly and method to deliver and place a bodily implant inside a patient's body. The medical assembly includes an insertion tool such that a portion of the insertion tool defines a lumen. The medical assembly further includes a carrier configured to be coupled to the insertion tool and including a passageway. The medical assembly also includes a flexible elongate member configured to pass through the passageway of the carrier and the lumen. The elongate member is also configured to be coupled to the bodily implant such that a portion of the elongate member between the bodily implant and the carrier defines a length.