Barbed Mesh Self-Fixating Tissue Closure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional suturing methods for soft tissue closure and hernia repair are time-consuming, operator-dependent, and prone to high failure rates, particularly in abdominal fascia closure, leading to increased hernia formation and complications.

Innovation Solution

A barbed mesh with self-fixating barbs that penetrate and adhere to tissue, eliminating the need for sutures by providing rapid, stable fixation of soft tissues without the requirement for extensive suturing, and can be used for subcutaneous, transcutaneous, or fascial plane closures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional suturing methods are used for soft tissue closure, then the closure can be achieved with simple materials, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and operator-dependent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of materialsVSAvoidprocedure time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mesh is segmented with multiple apertures distributed across its surface, each aperture capable of receiving a barb. This segmentation allows simultaneous engagement of multiple tissue points, enabling rapid closure without the sequential stitching required by traditional sutures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The barbs are pre-formed and integrated with the mesh structure before use. When the mesh is applied to tissue, the barbs automatically engage with tissue through the apertures, eliminating the need for time-consuming knot-tying and suture manipulation during the procedure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If traditional suturing methods are used for abdominal fascia closure, then the procedure can be performed with conventional techniques, but the failure rate increases and hernia formation occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconventional technique availabilityVSAvoidclosure success rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from one-dimensional linear suturing to two-dimensional mesh-based closure. The mesh distributes fixation forces across a broad surface area with multiple apertures, creating superior mechanical stability and reducing the risk of closure failure and hernia formation compared to traditional linear suture lines

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The barbs are designed with specific geometric parameters including angle, length, and projection features that optimize tissue penetration and retention. These parameter optimizations ensure reliable engagement with abdominal fascia, providing consistent closure strength and reducing failure rates

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If extensive suturing is performed for mesh placement, then the mesh can be securely positioned, but the operating room time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemesh positioning stabilityVSAvoidoperating room efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The barbs provide self-fixating functionality, automatically engaging with tissue through the mesh apertures when the mesh is applied. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for extensive additional suturing to secure the mesh, significantly reducing operating room time while maintaining stable positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The closure function and mesh positioning function are merged into a single integrated structure. The same barbs that close the tissue also secure the mesh in position, eliminating the need for separate suturing steps and improving overall surgical efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20230338129A1Barbed mesh for incision closure and hernia repair
Publication Date: 2023.10.26 WASHINGTON UNIV IN SAINT LOUIS
  • US20230338129A1 patent drawing
  • US20230338129A1 patent drawing
  • US20230338129A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A barbed mesh device is provided for tissue closure and tissue support when the tissue is closed by other means. The device includes a macroporous mesh with a plurality of intersections or apertures and a plurality of barbs extending from the plurality of intersections or apertures on at least one side of the mesh. The plurality of barbs each include a barb body and a plurality of projections extending at an angle from the barb body.