Cervical Stabilization Device via Vaginal Pressure Distribution

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for an incontinent cervix, such as cerclage, are invasive and can lead to complications like premature birth and compromise future pregnancies, necessitating a non-invasive method to stabilize the cervix during pregnancy and reduce the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery.

Innovation Solution

A cervical stabilization device comprising a cervical cup and bladder portions that surround the cervix without engaging its outer surface, using a flexible material to distribute pressure to the vaginal wall, allowing for adjustable inflation and positioning to support the uterus and reduce strain on the cervix.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cerclage procedure is used to stabilize the cervix, then the cervix is sutured closed to prevent opening, but this invasive procedure compromises the cervix and can cause instantaneous premature birth

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecervical stabilizationVSAvoidcervix compromise and premature birth risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a cervical cap as an intermediary device that provides cervical stabilization without directly suturing or compromising the cervix. The cap acts as a mediator between the cervix and the uterine contents, providing support while allowing the cervix to maintain its natural function and integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical suturing system of cerclage with a cap-based support system. Instead of using stitches to close the cervix, the invention uses a cap structure that provides external support and stabilization, eliminating the harmful mechanical intervention of suturing while achieving the same stabilizing effect.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If bed rest is imposed to treat incontinent cervix, then the cervix is given rest to prevent premature delivery, but this requires extended bed rest that impacts patient quality of life

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of premature deliveryVSAvoidpatient mobility and quality of life

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cervical cap is designed to be self-retaining and self-supporting, providing continuous cervical stabilization without requiring patient compliance with bed rest. The device automatically performs the stabilizing function through its structural design, allowing patients to maintain normal daily activities while receiving effective treatment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The cap serves as a mechanical intermediary that provides the support function previously requiring patient behavior modification (bed rest). By transferring the stabilizing function from patient compliance to a passive device, the invention eliminates the need for restrictive bed rest while maintaining prevention efficacy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the cervical cup engages the outer surface of the cervix, then direct support is provided to the cervix, but this may cause stimulation or damage to the delicate cervical tissue

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecervical supportVSAvoidcervical tissue stimulation or damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating a void space between the cap and the cervix, concentrating the support function in specific areas (the fornices) rather than applying pressure directly to the cervical outer surface. This localized approach provides necessary support while protecting the delicate cervical tissue from direct contact and potential damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The void space acts as an intermediary buffer between the cap and the cervix, allowing the cap to provide support indirectly without direct engagement of the cervical outer surface. This intermediate space prevents harmful contact while maintaining the stabilizing function through engagement with the more robust fornicial tissue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 device provides non-surgical, anesthetic-free stabilization of the cervix, reducing the risk of preterm delivery and allowing for natural delivery by distributing the weight of the fetus to the vaginal wall, thus minimizing strain on the cervix and promoting a viable birth.

Implementation Method 1

using a flexible material to distribute pressure to the vaginal wall, allowing for adjustable inflation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure distribution: Pascal's Law

Data Source

PatentUS10463530B2Cervical stabilization device

Publication Date: 2019.11.05 VIATECHMD LLC

AI summary

A system and method for stabilizing an incontinent cervix during pregnancy are described. A system may include a nesting portion designed to surround the cervix without applying pressure to the cervix, while supporting the uterus in opposition to the weight of the developing fetus to prevent untimely effacement and dilatation of the cervix, thereby reducing the risk of premature birth and its consequence.