Bellows Tracheal Replacement for Pediatric Defects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracheal replacement methods face challenges in recreating the mechanical and biological properties of the trachea, leading to issues such as respiratory distress and granuloma formation due to excessive tension and lack of flexibility in conventional supports used for tracheal defects, especially in infants and children.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional printed tracheal replacement with a bellows framework having concave-convex convolutions and grooves, featuring an epithelium part on the inner side and an annular cartilage part on the outer side, utilizing thermoplastic polymers and bio-inks to mimic the trachea's mechanical and biological properties, along with an absorption prevention part to minimize internal absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional hard supports are used for tracheal reconstruction, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility and patency deteriorate causing granuloma overgrowth and tracheal occlusion
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining a flexible bellows framework made of elastomeric material with a porous scaffold material. This composite design provides both the structural strength needed for support and the flexibility required for patency, resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability in tracheal reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The bellows framework is constructed from elastomeric material that provides inherent flexibility and compliance matching the trachea. The framework can expand and contract dynamically while maintaining structural integrity, allowing the airway to remain patent without the rigidity that causes granuloma formation in conventional hard supports.
2Ease of manufacture
If tracheal resection and end-to-end anastomosis is performed, then defect removal is improved, but applicability to wide lesions and congenital defects deteriorates due to excessive tension
Solution Approach 1:
The tracheal replacement is designed as a segmented bellows structure with multiple convolutions and grooves that can be independently formed. This segmentation allows the prosthesis to accommodate varying lengths and positions of defects, making it applicable to both localized and extensive lesions without requiring extensive resection and creating excessive tension at anastomosis sites.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a simple linear anastomosis approach to a three-dimensional bellows structure with convolutions extending along the longitudinal axis. This dimensional change provides additional space and flexibility for accommodating wide lesions and congenital defects, reducing the tension required for anastomosis while maintaining structural support.
3Area of stationary object
If extensive circular defects of trachea are reconstructed, then defect coverage is improved, but respiratory mucosal epithelium hypoplasia occurs on grafted supports
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold is designed with a porous structure that allows penetration and migration of respiratory mucosal epithelium cells. This porosity enables the grafted support to integrate with surrounding tissues, preventing epithelium hypoplasia while covering extensive defect areas. The porous architecture facilitates tissue ingrowth and maintains the functional integrity of the respiratory mucosa.
4Adaptability or versatility
If three-dimensional conduit type structure is used, then versatility for wide tracheal defects is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows framework incorporates dynamic convolutions and grooves that can be formed through controlled material deposition. The framework's ability to be manufactured as a single integrated piece with pre-formed convolutions reduces the need for complex assembly procedures, thereby managing manufacturing complexity while maintaining versatility for various defect configurations.
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 solution provides a flexible and stable tracheal replacement that allows for simultaneous regeneration of respiratory mucosal epithelium and tracheal cartilage, reducing post-surgical complications and effectively treating intractable tracheal defects by closely mimicking the anatomical properties of the trachea.
Implementation Method 1
preparing a porous bellows framework having pores, repeatedly performing dispensing and non-dispensing of a melted thermoplastic polymer through a nozzle
Implementation Method 2
by separating printing of the bellows framework and the printing of the cartilage part and epithelium part in which cells can be comprised, the mechanical and material physical properties of the tracheal replacement are enhanced, and an optimized printing process capable of securing the survival and function of cells has been developed
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a bellows framework having a concave-convex structure on at least one of outer and inner sides using three-dimensional printing technology and a method of producing thereof, and an artificial tracheal replacement comprising an epithelium part formed on the inner side of the bellows framework and an annular cartilage part formed along the circumference of concave-convex grooves on the outer side and a method of producing thereof.