Self-Expanding Anastomosis Frame for Leak-Resistant Tissue Apposition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for creating anastomoses between tissue structures, such as in coronary artery bypass graft surgery, often involve suturing, which can be complex and prone to complications, and there is a need for alternative methods that simplify implantation and reduce complications.

Innovation Solution

Implantable medical devices with expandable frames and apposition members that facilitate secure connections between tissue layers, allowing for endoscopic deployment and self-expansion to create a fluidic connection, with optional removable or permanent implantation, and featuring a covering material to prevent fluid leakage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If suturing is used to create anastomoses, then the connection can be formed, but the procedure becomes complex and prone to complications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanastomosis connection reliabilityVSAvoidimplantation procedure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical suturing system with a self-expanding mechanical frame system. The frame expands radially to press apposition members against tissue surfaces, creating a secure mechanical connection without requiring sutures. This substitution eliminates the complexity of suturing while maintaining reliable anastomosis formation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The anastomosis device performs its own securing function through self-expansion. When the frame expands, it automatically generates the radial force needed to press apposition members against the tissue surfaces, creating the connection without requiring external suturing assistance. The device secures itself through the expansion mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If traditional anastomosis methods are used, then connections can be formed, but complications increase and implantation is less simplified

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimplantation simplicityVSAvoidprocedure complications

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the connection function into discrete apposition members distributed around the frame perimeter. Each apposition member independently contacts and presses against tissue surfaces, distributing the connection force and simplifying the overall implantation process while reducing complications associated with concentrated suturing points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame transitions from a compressed delivery state to an expanded operational state, changing the radial dimension parameter to generate securing force. This parameter change enables the device to create secure connections through radial expansion rather than requiring complex suturing maneuvers, thereby simplifying implantation and reducing complications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12478376B2Anastomosis devices

Publication Date: 2025.11.25 WL GORE & ASSOC INC

AI summary

Implantable medical devices for connecting tissue layers, such as for connecting a gallbladder and a portion of a gastrointestinal tract to create an anastomosis, include a tubular structure having a plurality of apposition portions, a central region, and a covering material. The methods of using the devices include endoscopic deployment, and the devices may include self-expanding frameworks that facilitate a secure connection between the tissue structures.