Asymmetric Tissue Anchor with Insertion Tab for Single-Incision Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical implant fixation methods, such as suture knots and anchors, are not optimal for efficiently and durably anchoring support materials in soft tissues like periosteum or dense fibrous tissue, particularly for treating urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, as they often require multiple incisions and additional tools.
Innovation Solution
A tissue anchor system comprising a support material, a suture engaged with the support material, and an anchor assembly with a geometrically asymmetric design and asymmetric mass distribution, which includes an introducer for delivering the anchor through a single incision, allowing secure anchoring in periosteum tissue without the need for transobturator arms or additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional suture knots or anchors are used for fixation, then surgical implants can be secured in place, but the procedure requires multiple incisions and additional tools, increasing surgical complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor body and deployment function are merged into a single integrated device. The anchor includes an insertion tab that serves as both a handling feature and a deployment mechanism, eliminating the need for separate deployment tools and reducing surgical steps while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: the cannula provides both protection during insertion and defines the deployment path, the insertion tab serves as both a grip feature and a deployment actuator, and the asymmetric fin provides both tissue engagement and rotational guidance. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and surgical steps required.
2Reliability
If traditional anchors are used, then fixation can be achieved, but the procedure requires multiple incisions and additional deployment tools, increasing surgical time
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is pre-loaded into the cannula in the correct orientation before surgery begins. The asymmetric fin is pre-positioned to engage with the cannula wall, and the insertion tab is pre-configured for easy grasping and deployment. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming intraoperative assembly and positioning steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment function is extracted from the anchor body itself and incorporated into the insertion tab, which serves as both a handling feature and a deployment actuator. This eliminates the need for separate deployment tools and simplifies the surgical procedure, reducing surgical time while maintaining anchoring strength.
3Ease of manufacture
If symmetric anchors are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but the anchors do not rotate reliably into the optimal engagement position in tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor incorporates an asymmetric fin with a specific geometry that is not symmetric about the anchor's longitudinal axis. This asymmetric shape creates a preferred rotation path as the anchor is deployed into tissue, ensuring reliable rotation into the optimal engagement position. The asymmetry is designed to work with the cannula geometry to guide rotation while remaining manufacturable using standard molding techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of placing an anchor into tissue includes providing an anchor assembly including an anchor and a suture, handling the anchor assembly by holding the insertion tab, and inserting the anchor into a bore of a cannula by holding the insertion tab outside of the bore of the cannula.