Aortic Root Retractor Frame With Integrated Suture Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suture locking devices for cardiac surgery are unreliable and difficult to use, especially during minimally invasive procedures, and there is a need for improved visualization of the aortic root during aortotomy.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an aortic root retractor frame, introducer, and suture locking apparatuses with ergonomic design and a frame deployment mechanism, allowing for secure suture tensioning and improved visualization of the aortic root.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate clamps or forceps are used to lock suture ends, then suture tension can be maintained, but the device becomes less reliable and more difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the suture locking function and tube clamping function into a single integrated device. The locking mechanism includes upper and lower locking surfaces that engage with a latch, eliminating the need for separate clamps or forceps. This integration improves reliability by providing a dedicated locking mechanism designed specifically for suture management while enhancing ease of operation through a unified device that performs multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple functions: it locks suture ends to maintain tension, clamps tubes for fluid delivery, and provides a stable platform for suture management. The upper and lower housings with gripping surfaces can accommodate different tube sizes, and the locking mechanism works with sutures of varying tensions. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing a single versatile device that is both reliable and easy to operate across different surgical scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If a simple tube is used to pass suture ends, then suture tension can be applied, but the clamping efficacy varies depending on clamp type, age, and usage
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the tube clamping function with the suture locking function in a single integrated unit. The upper and lower housings form a complete clamp that secures the tube while the locking mechanism maintains suture tension. This eliminates the variability associated with using separate clamps of different types, ages, and conditions, providing consistent and reliable clamping efficacy throughout the surgical procedure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the aorta is clamped and occluded for aortotomy, then access to aortic valve is enabled, but visualization of the aortic root becomes difficult due to floppy aortic walls
Solution Approach 1:
The device introduces an intermediary structure (the frame with paddles) between the surgeon and the aortic root. The paddles physically hold the aortic wall away from the surgical field, creating a stable viewing platform. This intermediary structure enables both access to the aortic valve through controlled occlusion and improved visualization by preventing the aortic walls from flopping into the surgical field.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for cardiac surgery is disclosed. The device for cardiac surgery includes an aortic root retractor frame, an introducer, and one or more suture locking apparatuses. The device for cardiac surgery also includes an actuator for releasing the aortic root retractor frame, as well as a deployment mechanism for fully expanding the aortic root retractor frame. Multiple suture locking apparatuses used for releasable locking and unlocking of suture during a cardiac surgery procedure may be included in the device for cardiac surgery.