Surgical Closing Device Loading Cartridge for Intervertebral Disc Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for loading implements, such as sutures or tabs, into delivery devices for surgical procedures like herniated disc repair are cumbersome and time-consuming, leading to procedural delays and limited visibility and access in sensitive regions of the body.
Innovation Solution
A loading device or cartridge system that facilitates the efficient loading of closing devices onto delivery devices using various mechanisms, including passive, direct, and indirect methods, with features like tab holding and transferring, tether loading, and suture management, to ensure reliable and timely loading at the point of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual loading methods are used for loading implements into delivery devices, then the loading process is simple in structure, but the procedural time is excessive and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The loading device pre-positions the implement within the delivery device before the surgical procedure begins. The implement is held in a loaded state within the delivery device, ready for immediate deployment, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual loading during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The implement is nested within the delivery device in a compact configuration. The closing device with suture and tabs is contained within the delivery device's internal structure, allowing it to be transported and stored in a space-efficient manner while ready for deployment.
2Ease of operation
If manual loading methods are used, then device complexity is low, but the ease of operation is poor and loading is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The loading device is designed to automatically secure and position the implement within the delivery device without requiring manual manipulation. The device performs its own loading function through mechanical engagement features that automatically lock the implement in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading device acts as an intermediary tool that facilitates the transfer of the implement from its storage state to the delivery device. It provides a mechanical interface that simplifies the loading process through guided insertion and automatic engagement mechanisms.
3Reliability
If loading is performed in sensitive regions of the body, then the surgical treatment is effective, but visibility and access are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The implement is pre-loaded into the delivery device before entering the patient's body. This preliminary loading ensures that the closing device is securely positioned and ready for immediate use, eliminating delays during the critical phase of surgery in hard-to-reach areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical system is divided into separate functional components: the delivery device for navigation and positioning, and the implement for closing. This segmentation allows the delivery device to be optimized for access to difficult locations while the implement remains compact and ready for deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed for loading a closing device onto a delivery device at the point of use and for using the apparatus for treating the intervertebral disc. The apparatus includes a cartridge for loading a closing device onto a delivery device at the point of use, the cartridge comprising a tab holding feature for holding one or more tabs of the closing device and a tab loading feature for loading tabs onto the delivery device. A method of treating an intervertebral disc includes the steps of loading a closing device into a delivery device at the point of use, the closing device comprising at least two tabs coupled to a connecting element, and substantially approximating a defect in the intervertebral disc using the closing device delivered by the delivery device.