Aerogel Implants for Reversible Vas Deferens Occlusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current male contraceptive options are limited and ineffective, with no new forms introduced since the vasectomy in the mid-19th century, leading to high rates of unintended pregnancies and associated societal and family costs.
Innovation Solution
Development of aerogel implants that can be easily inserted into the body, are highly durable, and provide reversible contraception by occluding the vas deferens, with the ability to last for several years.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional male contraceptive methods (condoms, withdrawal, vasectomy) are used, then contraception is provided, but effectiveness is low and satisfaction rate is low
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical state and properties of the contraceptive material by using aerogel technology. The aerogel undergoes phase transition from a dry, compressed state during insertion to a swollen, hydrated state in the body, providing reliable occlusion while being easy to insert. This parameter change resolves the contradiction between effectiveness and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerogel contraceptive device utilizes phase transition from a dehydrated, compact form (easy to insert) to a hydrated, expanded form (effective occlusion). This phase transition allows the device to be easily inserted through minimally invasive procedures while achieving reliable contraceptive effectiveness once deployed in the body.
2Reliability
If vas-occlusive methods like RISUG/VASALGEL are used, then contraception is provided, but the materials are difficult to remove and may cause long-term complications
Solution Approach 1:
The aerogel device can be extracted or removed from the body through minimally invasive procedures. The aerogel's unique properties allow it to be retrieved intact or fragmented and removed, resolving the contradiction between providing reliable contraception and enabling easy reversal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerogel device provides dynamic functionality, being easily insertable and removable while maintaining stable occlusion during the contraceptive period. This dynamic characteristic allows the system to transition between different states (inserted/removed, swollen/compact) to satisfy both reliability and reversibility requirements.
3Duration of action of moving object
If long-lasting contraception is provided, then duration of action is improved, but reversibility becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The aerogel device maintains dynamic properties throughout its duration, allowing it to provide long-lasting occlusion while remaining removable. The device's structural integrity and material properties enable it to stay in place effectively for extended periods yet can be retrieved when reversal is needed, resolving the contradiction between duration and reversibility.
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
The aerogel implants effectively provide long-lasting, reversible contraception with high efficacy, reducing the risk of unintended pregnancies and offering a safer alternative to existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
The aerogel implants are configured to swell in vivo following insertion into a body cavity or lumen
Implementation Method 2
aerogel implants that can be easily inserted into the body, are highly durable, and provide reversible contraception by occluding the vas deferens
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include aerogel implants and methods for making aerogel implants, and methods of implantation of aerogel implants. Such implants are configured to swell in vivo following insertion into a body cavity or lumen, such as a vas deferens or fallopian tube, to provide an occlusion. In embodiments, in vivo swelling results in an aerogel implant (e.g., a rehydrated hydrogel implant) that is dynamically responsive to vessel contraction.