Cartilage Reshaping via Laser and Custom Trellis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for correcting ear deformities, such as protruding ears, are invasive, carry risks like hematoma, infection, and hypertrophic scars, and often require repeat surgeries, while non-surgical options are limited and ineffective for reshaping cartilage structures.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a trellis and projection system that fits over the ear, applying pressure to reshape the cartilage, combined with laser treatment and a method involving virtual 3D imaging to create a custom device for reshaping cartilage structures, allowing for non-invasive and less painful correction of ear deformities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If surgical methods are used to correct ear deformities, then the cartilage structure can be reshaped, but the patient faces risks of hematoma, infection, hypertrophic scars, and may require repeat surgeries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical surgical cutting and suturing system with a laser-based system. The laser delivers controlled energy to the cartilage, allowing precise reshaping without incisions, sutures, or mechanical contact that cause trauma, infection, or scarring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of cartilage through controlled laser energy application. By adjusting laser parameters (energy density, pulse duration, wavelength), the cartilage can be selectively softened, reshaped, or removed without surgical intervention, achieving the desired form while avoiding surgical complications.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional surgical techniques are used, then ear deformities can be corrected, but the procedure is invasive and painful requiring anesthesia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive mechanical surgical instruments with a non-contact laser system. The laser beam can be precisely directed at the cartilage through optical guidance, enabling accurate shape correction without incisions, tissue retraction, or mechanical manipulation that causes pain and requires anesthesia.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a laser beam as an intermediary between the operator and the cartilage tissue. This energy-mediated approach allows remote, precise modification of cartilage structure without direct mechanical contact, eliminating the need for anesthesia and reducing patient discomfort.
3Manufacturing precision
If surgical correction is performed, then ear deformities are addressed, but complications such as skin and cartilage necrosis and loss of sensitivity may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses precisely controlled laser parameters (energy density, exposure time, wavelength selection) to modify cartilage properties safely. By adjusting these parameters, the laser can selectively affect cartilage without damaging overlying skin or surrounding tissues, avoiding necrosis and nerve damage associated with surgical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traumatic mechanical forces of surgery (cutting, retraction, suturing) with controlled thermal and photomechanical effects of laser. This substitution eliminates the risk of mechanical trauma, hemorrhage, and tissue necrosis while maintaining the ability to achieve precise cartilage restructuring.
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 safer, less painful, and more effective method for reshaping cartilage structures, reducing complications and achieving permanent results with minimal discomfort and risk of recurrence.
Implementation Method 1
laser treatment and a method involving virtual 3D imaging to create a custom device for reshaping cartilage structures
Data Source
AI summary
Described are methods of reshaping a cartilage structure. One such method comprises creating a virtual three dimensional image of the cartilage structure; manipulating the virtual three dimensional image of the cartilage structure so as to obtain a virtual three dimensional image of a desired final shape of the cartilage structure; creating a virtual prototype of a device to hold the cartilage structure in the desired final shape of the cartilage structure; manufacturing the device; lasing the cartilage structure; and fitting the manufactured device to the cartilage structure (e.g., ear).