Barbed Suture Forming via Heated Punch and Nest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming barbs on sutures are difficult and costly, and lack the ability to efficiently vary the size, number, location, and depth of barbs for optimal wound closure.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a suture nest and a punch apparatus, where the suture nest has recesses and openings, and the punch apparatus includes movable punch members that can be heated to form barbs on a suture by engaging with the nest, allowing for customizable barb formation along the suture length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional methods (mechanical cutting, laser cutting, injection molding, extrusion) are used to form barbs on sutures, then barbs can be formed on the suture, but the process becomes difficult and costly, and lacks flexibility in varying barb configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows dynamic adjustment of barb formation parameters by selectively positioning the suture within the nest and choosing which recesses receive punch members, enabling flexible variation of barb size, number, location, and depth without requiring different manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The nest is divided into multiple discrete recesses that can independently receive punch members, allowing selective formation of barbs at different locations along the suture. This segmentation enables customized barb configurations while using a single integrated device
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed number and configuration of barbs are formed on the suture, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the ability to optimize wound closure holding for different wound sizes and locations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The nest structure serves multiple functions: it guides the suture, positions multiple recesses along the suture length, and provides openings for punch member insertion. This universal structure handles various barb configurations without requiring different devices or complex processes
Solution Approach 2:
The nest automatically positions and guides the suture through its longitudinal passage, and the punch members self-align through the openings to form barbs at the correct locations, reducing the need for complex external positioning systems
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective formation of barbs on sutures with precise control over size, number, and location, facilitating optimal wound closure and tissue repair.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one punch member is configured to be selectively received within the at least one opening in the suture nest
Implementation Method 2
forming barbs on sutures using heat staking
Data Source
AI summary
A barbed suture is provided. The barbed suture includes an elongate body and at least one barb extending from the elongate body. The elongate body defines a recess adjacent the at least one barb. Also provided is a method of making a barbed suture. The method includes the steps of providing a suture nest and a punch apparatus configured for operable engagement with the suture nest, loading a suture through the suture nest, engaging the punch apparatus with the suture nest, and disengaging the punch apparatus with the suture nest.