Cervical Stabilization Device Uterine Pressure Redistribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Incontinent cervix, which can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, and stillbirth, is inadequately addressed by existing treatments, particularly due to the invasive nature and complications associated with cerclage procedures, necessitating a non-invasive and non-surgical solution to stabilize the cervix during pregnancy.
Innovation Solution
A cervical stabilization device made from flexible materials like rubber, plastic, or silicon polymer, with inflatable bladder portions and a uterine support shoulder, gently supports the uterus to redistribute pressure away from the cervix, preventing untimely effacement and dilation, and can be custom-fitted and easily removable.
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 procedure is invasive, compromises the cervix further, and may cause instantaneous premature birth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cervical cap device as an intermediary element that provides cervical stabilization without direct surgical intervention. The cap acts as a mediator between the cervix and the uterus, supporting the uterus and redistributing pressure away from the cervix, thereby preventing cervical opening without the harmful effects of suturing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical surgical system (cerclage suturing) with a passive mechanical support system (cervical cap). Instead of actively suturing the cervix closed, the cap provides continuous mechanical support to the uterus and redistributes pressure, achieving stabilization through a different mechanical approach that avoids surgical trauma
2Reliability
If bed rest is imposed for extended period to treat incontinent cervix, then cervical strain is reduced, but patient mobility and quality of life are significantly restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The cervical cap device provides self-service cervical support by mechanically redistributing uterine pressure away from the cervix. The device autonomously performs the strain-reduction function that would otherwise require passive bed rest, allowing patients to maintain normal mobility while receiving therapeutic cervical protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the load-bearing function from the patient's body by introducing an external device that specifically targets and redistributes cervical pressure. This segmentation allows the patient's body to remain mobile and active while the device handles the specific function of cervical strain reduction
3Object-affected harmful factors
If non-invasive device is used to support the uterus, then cervical compromise is avoided and patient comfort is improved, but the device must effectively redistribute pressure to prevent premature delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The cervical cap device functions as an anti-weight mechanism by providing counterbalancing support to the uterus. The device redistributes the weight and pressure of the uterus away from the cervix, creating a counteracting force that prevents cervical opening and premature delivery without requiring surgical intervention or patient 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 reduces the strain on the cervix, minimizing the risk of preterm delivery while allowing for natural delivery and accommodating fetal growth, with the ability to be adjusted and removed without surgical intervention, thus providing a safer and more comfortable pregnancy outcome.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable bladder portion configured to be inflated with fluid to support the cervix
Implementation Method 2
A cervical stabilization device made from flexible materials like rubber, plastic, or silicon polymer
Data Source
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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.