Barbed Rod Tissue Closure with Self-Fixating Barbs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional suturing methods for tissue closure are time-consuming, operator-dependent, and require multiple layers of closure, leading to inefficiencies and potential complications such as wound dehiscence.
Innovation Solution
A barbed rod device with self-fixating barbs made of biologically resorbable or non-resorbable materials, designed to penetrate and adhere to tissues, providing rapid and stable tissue approximation and closure, either as a replacement or supplement to sutures, with modular subassemblies that can be coupled for varying applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional suturing methods are used for tissue closure, then tissue approximation can be achieved, but the procedure is time-consuming and requires multiple layers of closure
Solution Approach 1:
The barbed rod combines multiple closure functions into a single device. The rod features barbs on opposite sides that can simultaneously engage multiple tissue layers, eliminating the need for separate sutures for each layer. This merging of functions allows rapid approximation of skin, subcutaneous tissue, and deeper structures in a single application, directly addressing the time-consuming nature of traditional multi-layer suturing
Solution Approach 2:
The barbed rod is divided into distinct functional segments: the central rod body provides structural support, while barbs at different locations and orientations handle different tissue layers. The barbs are segmented along the rod's length, with some positioned to engage skin and others to engage deeper tissues, allowing simultaneous multi-layer closure without requiring multiple separate devices or steps
2Reliability
If traditional suturing methods are used, then tissue closure can be achieved, but the outcome quality is operator-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The barbed rod design incorporates self-aligning and self-engaging features that reduce operator skill dependency. The barbs are configured to automatically engage tissue layers as the rod is inserted, with the tissue itself guiding the barbs into proper positions. This self-service mechanism ensures consistent approximation quality regardless of operator experience, as the device's geometry rather than operator skill determines the outcome
Solution Approach 2:
The barbed rod uses fixed geometric parameters ( barb angle, barb spacing, rod diameter) that are optimized during manufacturing to ensure reliable tissue engagement. These predetermined parameters replace the variable human judgment and skill required in traditional suturing, making the closure outcome consistent and reproducible across different operators and procedures
3Reliability
If multiple layers of sutures are used for closure, then comprehensive tissue approximation can be achieved, but the effort and time required is doubled or tripled
Solution Approach 1:
The barbed rod is designed as a universal closure device that can simultaneously approximate multiple tissue layers through its multi-directional barbs. The single rod structure performs the function of multiple separate suture lines, engaging skin, subcutaneous tissue, and deeper structures concurrently. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate closure elements while maintaining comprehensive tissue approximation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the function of multiple suture lines into a single barbed rod device. Instead of using separate sutures for skin closure, subcutaneous closure, and deeper tissue approximation, all these functions are combined in one device with barbs oriented to engage different tissue layers simultaneously, reducing the total number of closure elements from multiple sutures to a single rod
Data Source
AI summary
A barbed rod device is provided for tissue closure and approximation. The device includes two or more subassemblies. Each subassembly includes a receiver having a central opening and centerline axis, a plurality of barbs extending radially outward from the receiver, and a linking rod extending from the receiver along the centerline axis of the receiver. The linking rod includes a locking end opposite the receiver. The locking end of a first subassembly is configured to engage the receiver of a second subassembly.