Rectal Cannula With Angled Lateral Openings for Uniform Enema Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard rectal cannulas fail to achieve uniform distribution of enema compositions in the rectum and sigmoid colon, leading to poor coating of the internal walls and significant waste, necessitating combined therapies that reduce patient compliance and efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A cannula design with lateral dispensing openings angled between 30° to 60° relative to the longitudinal axis, enhancing distribution and contact surface area, combined with an in-situ gelling enema composition containing thermo-responsive and ion-sensitive polymers to form a long-lasting gel at body temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a standard rectal cannula with apical aperture is used, then the enema composition can be administered, but the distribution is poor and coating of internal walls is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula is divided into multiple functional zones with different aperture configurations. The proximal portion has apical and lateral apertures for directing composition toward the rectal wall, while the distal portion has only apical apertures for forward flow. This segmentation allows different regions of the cannula to perform specialized functions for optimal distribution and coating.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the cannula have different aperture characteristics tailored to their specific functions. The proximal portion features lateral apertures angled at 30-60 degrees for wall coating, while the distal portion has only forward-directed apical apertures. This local differentiation optimizes the enema composition delivery to achieve both distribution and coating simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If a standard rectal cannula is used, then administration is simple, but the enema composition does not achieve uniform distribution in the rectum and sigmoid colon
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula structure is segmented into proximal and distal portions with different aperture configurations. This segmentation enables the device to achieve uniform distribution through multiple delivery pathways (apical and lateral) while maintaining a simple single-device administration process, eliminating the need for complex combination therapies.
3Ease of manufacture
If liquid enema composition is administered, then it can be delivered via standard cannula, but it drips out following application causing waste
Solution Approach 1:
The enema composition is formulated as a segmented system with liquid phase for easy delivery through the cannula and gel phase for retention. The composition transitions from liquid at administration temperature to gel at body temperature, allowing easy manufacture and delivery while preventing dripping and waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the enema composition changes with temperature. At administration temperature (below body temperature), the composition remains liquid for easy delivery through the cannula. Upon contact with body temperature, it transforms to a gel state that adheres to the rectal wall and prevents dripping, thereby reducing waste.
4Reliability
If combined therapy with suppository and enema is used, then maximum effect is achieved in rectum and colon, but patient compliance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of suppository and enema into a single rectal cannula device. The proximal portion with lateral apertures provides suppository-like wall coating, while the distal portion with forward flow provides enema-like distribution. This combination achieves maximum treatment efficacy in both rectum and colon through a single administration, improving patient compliance.
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
Improves enema composition distribution in the rectum and sigmoid colon, reduces waste, and prolongs therapeutic contact time, enhancing treatment efficacy for conditions like ulcerative colitis and pouchitis.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the enema composition is a liquid at room temperature and forms a gel in situ at body temperature
Implementation Method 2
an in-situ gelling enema composition containing thermo-responsive and ion-sensitive polymers to form a long-lasting gel at body temperature
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a cannula and an enema composition for rectal administration via the cannula, particularly a liquid enema composition that forms a gel at body temperature. The cannula and enema are suitable for use in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, particularly distal ulcerative colitis (including proctitis and proctosigmoiditis).