Cervical Stabilization Device with Uterine Support Shoulder

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for an incontinent cervix, such as cerclage, are invasive, compromise the cervix, and often lead to premature birth, necessitating a non-invasive and non-surgical method to stabilize the cervix during pregnancy and prevent preterm delivery.

Innovation Solution

A cervical stabilization device with a uterine support shoulder and inflatable bladder portions that gently surround the cervix, distributing the weight of the fetus to the vaginal wall, reducing strain on the cervix and preventing premature dilation, while allowing natural discharges and accommodating anatomical changes during pregnancy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cerclage procedure is used to treat incontinent cervix, then cervix is sutured closed to prevent opening, but this compromises the cervix and can make future pregnancies more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecervical stabilityVSAvoidcervical compromise

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the support function into separate components: a cervical support portion that gently cradles the cervix without suturing, and a uterine support portion that bears the weight of the fetus. This segmentation allows stabilization without the harmful suturing action of cerclage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device introduces an intermediary structure (the support device itself) between the cervix and the uterine weight, rather than directly suturing the cervix. The cervical support portion acts as a mediator that distributes forces away from the cervix tissue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If cerclage procedure is used to stabilize cervix, then cervix is sutured closed, but this is associated with instantaneous premature birth event

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecervical stabilityVSAvoidpremature birth

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device provides gradual support and cushioning to the cervix before premature dilation can occur. The cervical support portion cradles the cervix in advance, distributing forces gradually rather than through sudden suturing tension that can trigger premature birth.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If bed rest is required for extended period to treat incontinent cervix, then patient must remain immobilized, but this reduces quality of life and is difficult to maintain

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecervical stabilityVSAvoidpatient mobility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device provides self-supporting stabilization through its anatomically shaped portions that naturally conform to and support the cervix and uterus. The weight-bearing structure supports itself and the fetal weight without requiring external restraint or immobilization of the patient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Reliability

If device surrounds cervix tightly to stabilize it, then cervix is secured, but this may damage delicate cervical tissues

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecervical stabilizationVSAvoidtissue damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The cervical support portion is designed with local quality appropriate for delicate tissue - a gentle, cradling shape that provides support without compression or constriction. This differs from the tighter engagement needed in other parts of the device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The cervical support portion uses a flexible, thin structure that can conform to the cervix shape without rigid constraint, providing stabilization while allowing tissue movement and avoiding damage to delicate cervical tissues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 without damaging tissues, reducing the risk of preterm delivery and allowing for a natural birth process, with easy removal and replacement as needed, and customizable to individual anatomies.

Implementation Method 1

distributing the weight of the fetus to the vaginal wall, reducing strain on the cervix

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure distribution: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

allowing natural discharges and accommodating anatomical changes during pregnancy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow:

Data Source

PatentEP2413836B1Cervical stabilization device

Publication Date: 2015.09.16 VIATECHMD LLC

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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.