Inflatable Balloon Tamp Profile Reduction via Inner Support Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current kyphoplasty procedures face challenges in reducing the outer diameter of inflatable balloon tamps (IBTs) for easier insertion and removal through cannulas, while maintaining their structural integrity and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an inner support member, such as a stylet, that increases the length of the IBT, reducing its profile for insertion and removal, and allows rotation to further minimize the profile, facilitating insertion and withdrawal through cannulas of varying diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the outer diameter of the cannula is reduced for easier insertion into tissue, then the ease of operation is improved, but the inflatable member cannot be fully inserted or removed from the cannula
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable member is designed to dynamically change its profile between a first profile (when deflated) and a second profile (when inflated). The support member enables this dynamic transformation by being translated to different positions, allowing the inflatable member to transition from a compressed state suitable for cannula insertion to an expanded state for surgical function
Solution Approach 2:
The support member is positioned within the inflatable member, creating a nested structure. This nested configuration allows the inflatable member to be compressed within a smaller volume for insertion through the cannula, while still maintaining the capability to expand to its functional size once deployed
2Strength
If the inflatable member is made larger to maintain structural integrity for bone correction, then the strength is improved, but the profile is increased making insertion and removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable member transitions from a compact first profile during insertion to an expanded second profile during the surgical procedure. This dynamic shape change allows the member to fit through small cannulas while maintaining the necessary size for structural support and bone correction functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the inflatable member is changed by inflating it after insertion. This parameter change (from deflated to inflated state) transforms the member's profile and volume, enabling it to provide the necessary structural integrity for bone correction while having passed through a smaller delivery configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A medical balloon device includes an outer member extending along an axis. An inflatable member has a proximal end extending from a first end of the outer member and a distal end. An inner member is positioned within the outer member and the inflatable member such that a first end of the inner member is coupled to the distal end of the inflatable member. A support member is movably disposed within the inner member and includes a first end configured to removably engage the first end of the inner member. Translation of the support member along the axis causes the inflatable member to move between a first position in which the inflatable member has a first length and a first profile and a second position in which the inflatable member has a second reduced length and a second reduced profile. Methods of use are disclosed.