Degradable Braided Matrix for Tissue Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mesh implants used in hernia and breast reconstruction surgeries are initially rigid, leading to shearing forces, scarring, and post-operative discomfort due to their non-physiological stretching capabilities, which do not adequately match the elasticity of the abdominal wall or breast tissue.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional braided polymeric matrix with a porosity range of 50-70% and pore size of 177 μm to 250 μm, made from multifilament degradable polymers, designed to provide mechanical support and allow cell ingrowth, which degrades after six to twelve months, offering flexibility and structural integrity during tissue repair without the initial rigidity of woven meshes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If non-resorbable mesh implants are used for hernia repair, then mechanical support and strength are improved, but flexibility and elasticity are worsened due to rigidity mismatch with abdominal wall
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh implant transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where the polymer matrix gradually degrades over time, allowing the mechanical properties to change from rigid to flexible as the implant integrates with surrounding tissue and degradation progresses
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical properties of the mesh implant are changed by selecting polymer materials with specific degradation characteristics, allowing the strength and flexibility parameters to evolve over time to match the physiological requirements of the abdominal wall
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid mesh implants are used, then structural integrity is improved, but shearing forces and scarring are worsened due to non-physiological stretching
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic modulus and stretching capability of the mesh implant are adjusted by selecting appropriate polymer compositions and degradation rates, allowing the structure to maintain integrity initially while gradually becoming more compliant to reduce shearing forces on surrounding tissue
3Adaptability or versatility
If resorbable polymer matrix is used, then flexibility and tissue integration are improved, but initial mechanical support is worsened compared to non-resorbable mesh
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh implant is constructed as a composite structure combining synthetic polymer fibers with natural extracellular matrix components, providing initial mechanical strength from the synthetic portion while the natural components facilitate tissue integration and gradual transition to flexible state
4Strength
If ACDM is used for breast reconstruction, then muscle reinforcement is improved, but seroma and infection risks are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh implant incorporates a porous structure that allows for drainage of fluid collections, reducing seroma formation, while the hydrophobic properties of the polymer material resist bacterial adhesion and infection
Solution Approach 2:
The resorbable nature of the polymer matrix means the reinforcement function is temporary, providing necessary support during the critical healing period then degrading naturally, eliminating long-term foreign body presence that could serve as infection nidus
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 matrix provides enhanced mechanical support and flexibility, reducing scarring and discomfort by allowing for even distribution of mechanical forces and cell ingrowth, while degrading when no longer needed, thus supporting tissue repair without long-term rigidity.
Implementation Method 1
made from multifilament degradable polymers, designed to provide mechanical support and allow cell ingrowth, which degrades after six to twelve months
Data Source
AI summary
A braided, rather than woven, three-dimensional matrix has been developed to provide mechanical support in breast reconstruction or a mastopexy procedure. The braided three-dimensional matrix may be used to assist in hernia repair procedures. The matrix is a supple, strong, and flexible material, that can increase 50% to 100% in size when stretched along the vertical plane, but only extends by about 10% to 20% in length when stretched along the horizontal plane. Although the matrix is degradable, it provides sufficient mechanical and structural support for six to twelve months following implantation to allow for repair or growth of the breast tissue or the abdominal wall. The matrix is formed of three-dimensional braided multifilament polymeric fibers plied to create yarn bundles, and wherein the matrix comprises an inter-connected, open pore structure that enables even and random distribution and in-growth of cells.