Cervical Stabilization Device with Flexural Cup
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Incontinent cervix, which is weakened and unable to handle the pressure of pregnancy, leading to risks of miscarriage, premature delivery, and complications such as autism and cerebral palsy, requires a non-invasive and non-surgical method for stabilization to prevent premature birth.
Innovation Solution
A cervical stabilization device comprising a cervical cup and bladder portions that surround the cervix without engaging its outer surface, using a flexural moment center to adjust positioning and inflate bladder portions made of medical-grade silicone, allowing for gentle support and pressure distribution to the vaginal wall, reducing strain on the cervix.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cerclage procedure is used to suture the cervix closed, then the cervix is stabilized to prevent opening, but the cervix is further compromised and future pregnancies become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cervical cap as an intermediary device that provides mechanical support to the cervix without directly suturing or compromising the cervical tissue. The cap acts as a mediator between the uterine weight and the cervix, distributing the load through its rigid structure while allowing the cervix to remain intact and functional for future pregnancies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the surgical cerclage procedure (which uses sutures and direct mechanical constraint on the cervix) with a mechanical support system consisting of a cervical cap and abdominal binder. This substitution provides cervical stabilization through external mechanical support rather than direct cervical intervention, avoiding further compromise of the cervix.
2Reliability
If cerclage procedure is performed, then cervical support is provided, but instantaneous premature birth event is often associated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing continuous cervical support through the cervical cap and abdominal binder combination before any potential premature birth event occurs. The abdominal binder is applied prenatally to maintain constant support, preventing the cervical stress that could trigger instantaneous premature birth, thereby allowing pregnancy to continue to a viable term.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by using the rigid cervical cap structure to absorb and distribute uterine weight and pressure before these forces can cause cervical failure. The cap acts as a protective cushion between the growing fetus and the weakened cervix, preventing the mechanical stress that would otherwise lead to premature dilation and birth.
3Reliability
If bed rest is required for extended period, then cervical stability is maintained, but patient mobility and quality of life are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service by designing an external support system that allows the patient to maintain cervical stability while preserving normal mobility and daily activities. The abdominal binder and cervical cap provide continuous support without requiring the patient to remain in bed, allowing them to care for themselves and maintain quality of life during pregnancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a mobile support system rather than a static bed rest requirement. The external abdominal binder and cervical cap allow the patient to move freely while maintaining cervical stability, adapting to different positions and activities throughout the day rather than requiring fixed immobility.
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 effectively stabilizes the cervix, reducing the risk of premature birth by distributing the weight of the fetus to the vaginal wall, allowing for a viable birth without invasive procedures or long-term bed rest, and can be easily removed and replaced as needed.
Implementation Method 1
inflate bladder portions made of medical-grade silicone, allowing for gentle support and pressure distribution to the vaginal wall, reducing strain on the cervix
Implementation Method 2
The cervical cup and core portion may be fluidly coupled by a flexural moment center configured to allow the cervical cup to flex relative to the core portion such that the cervical cup lip surrounds the cervix when the cervix is in a tipped position
Data Source
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.