Biodegradable Trocar Closure Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for closing fascial defects left by laparoscopic trocars are technically challenging, often resulting in incomplete closure, increased risk of hernias, and complications due to the need for blind manipulation and excessive traumatic manipulation, which contradicts the minimally invasive nature of laparoscopic surgery.
Innovation Solution
A biodegradable wound closure device comprising a subfascial button, screw, and superfascial button, connected by a central insertion stem and outer tube, which aligns and holds the fascial edges in place without compressing the tissue, allowing for secure closure of trocar defects through a small incision, using biodegradable materials that degrade within a predictable timeframe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional suturing techniques are used to close fascial defects, then the defect can be closed, but the procedure becomes technically difficult, time-consuming, and requires blind manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
A biodegradable plug serves as an intermediary device that is inserted through the skin incision and deployed within the fascial defect. The plug mechanically fills and secures the defect from the inside, eliminating the need for complex blind suturing maneuvers. The intermediary device transforms the closure mechanism from external suture manipulation to internal plug deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical suture-ligation system with a plug-insertion and deployment system. Instead of passing needles and threads through deep fascia blindly, the surgeon inserts a pre-formed biodegradable plug through the incision and uses expansion or anchoring mechanisms to secure it within the defect, substituting complex mechanical suturing with simpler plug deployment.
2Reliability
If deep blind sutures are placed after abdominal decompression, then fascial closure can be achieved, but dangerous manipulation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The biodegradable plug is prepared and loaded into the delivery system before abdominal decompression occurs. The plug is inserted through the incision while the abdomen is still inflated, allowing visualization and safe positioning. The actual closure action is performed preliminarily before the dangerous decompression phase, eliminating the risk of blind suture placement after pressure changes.
3Reliability
If multiple suture passes are made to close trocar defects, then closure can be achieved, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The closure function is segmented into two phases: a simple insertion phase where the plug is delivered through the incision, and an automatic deployment phase where the plug expands or anchors itself within the fascial defect. This segmentation separates the time-consuming multi-pass suture procedure from the actual closure function, achieving complete closure in a single insertion maneuver.
4Strength
If non-biodegradable materials are used for wound closure devices, then device strength is maintained, but subsequent surgical removal is required
Solution Approach 1:
The material parameter of the closure device is changed from non-biodegradable to biodegradable polymer composition. This parameter change allows the device to maintain sufficient strength during the critical healing period (typically 4-8 weeks) and then automatically degrade and be absorbed by the body, eliminating the need for secondary removal surgery and reducing overall device management complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A biodegradable device for maintaining the alignment of the edges of a trocar defect, consisting of two bases joined by a connector, a first base to be positioned below the defect and a second base above. The first base has a threaded hole from its upper surface but not through the lower surface. The connector attached to the bases such that there is a hole aligned with the threaded hole in the first base allowing a device to mate with the threads in the first base. The second base has a hole aligned with the hole in the connector and wide enough to allow a device to mate with the threads in the first base. The device is arranged so the distance between the lower surface of the second base and upper surface of the first base holds but does not compress the fascia around the trocar defect.