Barbed Adjustable Suture Loop to Prevent Tissue Attachment Loosening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical devices for attaching body tissue, such as suture anchors and endoscopic suturing devices, face challenges in preventing the loosening of loops during tissue reconstruction procedures like ACL and PCL reconstructions and capsular closure.
Innovation Solution
The use of flexible constructs with barbed members that form adjustable loops, where the barbs permit movement in one direction but restrict movement in the opposite direction, thereby preventing the loop from loosening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional suture loop is used for tissue attachment, then the loop can be adjusted and tightened, but the loop tends to loosen over time due to movement
Solution Approach 1:
The suture incorporates barbs with asymmetric geometry that allow movement in one direction (tightening) while blocking movement in the opposite direction (loosening). The barbs are configured with a leading edge that permits insertion and a trailing edge that engages tissue to prevent backsliding, creating directional asymmetry in the suture's mechanical behavior
Solution Approach 2:
The suture transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where the barbs can actively engage and disengage based on movement direction. During tightening, the barbs flex and allow suture movement; during loosening attempts, the barbs engage to lock the position, providing dynamic adaptation to loading conditions
2Ease of operation
If the suture allows movement for tightening, then the loop can be adjusted, but movement in the opposite direction causes loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The barbed suture features asymmetric barb geometry where the leading edge is sharp and thin for easy penetration during tightening, while the trailing edge is broader and engages tissue to prevent backsliding. This asymmetric design enables unilateral movement control
Solution Approach 2:
The suture is divided into multiple segments with barbs distributed along its length. Each barb acts as an independent one-way valve, allowing the suture to maintain adjustability while providing cumulative locking effect across multiple engagement points
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The flexible constructs provide secure and efficient tissue attachment by reducing the need for knots and minimizing loop expansion, enhancing the stability of tissue reconstructions.
Implementation Method 1
The suture includes a plurality of barbs that permit movement of the suture in a first direction relative to the sheath and restrict movement in a second direction relative to the sheath
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B
Figure 3A~5
AI summary
A flexible construct according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia, a sheath and a suture connected to the sheath to form an adjustable loop. The suture includes a plurality of barbs that permit movement of the suture in a first direction relative to the sheath and restrict movement in a second direction relative to the sheath.