Cardioprotective Patch with Integrated Cutting Guide for Repeat Sternotomy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pericardial patches used to prevent scar tissue adhesion during sternotomy do not adequately address complications associated with repeat sternotomy and lack a mechanism for safe re-entry or cast removal.
Innovation Solution
A cardioprotective patch with an integrated cutting guide, featuring a membrane with a fold and slits for device insertion, and a saw guide for facilitating repeat sternotomy, along with a tubular member and arms for secure attachment, which can also be used for cutting casts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pericardial patch is used to prevent scar tissue adhesion during sternotomy, then patient protection is improved, but the patch lacks an integrated mechanism for safe re-entry during repeat sternotomy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pericardial patch with an integrated cutting guide mechanism into a single unified device. The cutting guide includes a guide member that extends through the patch and a guide channel that receives a cutting tool, allowing the patch to serve both protective functions and surgical re-entry guidance in one integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pericardial patch is designed to perform multiple functions: preventing scar tissue adhesion during initial sternotomy, guiding safe re-entry during repeat sternotomy, and potentially guiding cast removal. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate devices and addresses the complexity issue by consolidating multiple functions into one versatile patch.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a repeat sternotomy is performed without an integrated guide, then surgical flexibility is maintained, but the risk of complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting guide acts as an intermediary device between the surgical tool and the sternum during repeat sternotomy. The guide member and guide channel provide a controlled pathway that mediates the cutting process, ensuring precise and safe re-entry while reducing the risk of complications associated with direct surgical intervention.
3Ease of operation
If a cast is removed without a cutting guide, then procedure simplicity is maintained, but skin damage and injury risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting guide integrated into the pericardial patch is designed to serve multiple purposes including guiding cast removal in addition to repeat sternotomy guidance. This universal design allows the same integrated mechanism to safely guide cutting tools for both surgical and orthopedic applications, reducing skin damage while maintaining procedural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A cardioprotective patch with an integrated cutting guide includes a membrane having a top edge, a bottom edge distal from the top edge, a right side edge connecting the top edge and the bottom edge; and a left side edge, distal from the right side edge and connecting the top edge and the bottom edge. A fold extends parallel to the top edge about half way between the top edge and the bottom edge. The crease is slit from the right side edge, forming a right slit. An elongate frame is fixedly connected to the membrane. The frame includes a tubular member and a plurality of arms extending outwardly from the tubular member and connected to the membrane.