Compression Retainers for Staple Cartridge Adjuncts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing staple cartridges with implantable adjuncts face challenges in ensuring the adjunct is properly adhered to the deck during shipment and surgery, risking dislodgment and compromising tissue compression.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a retainer system with movable retainer tabs that apply a compressive force to the implantable adjunct, enhancing its adhesion to the deck using an attachment material, and allowing for easy removal post-surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the implantable adjunct is removably secured to the deck, then it can be easily removed post-surgery, but it risks dislodgment during shipment and surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is pre-positioned on the staple cartridge deck before the adjunct is attached. The retainer creates a constrained environment that guides proper adjunct placement and maintains its position, preventing dislodgment during handling and shipment while allowing easy removal after surgery by simply detaching the retainer from the deck
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer acts as an intermediary component between the deck and the implantable adjunct. It provides a mechanical interface that secures the adjunct to the deck through engagement features (such as tabs fitting into slots or grooves), thereby preventing dislodgment while maintaining the ability to easily remove the adjunct-post-surgery by detaching the retainer from the deck
2Reliability
If a retainer system is added to secure the adjunct, then dislodgment is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer system is segmented into discrete, simple components such as individual tabs or clips that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each tab is a separate element that engages with corresponding features on the deck or adjunct, allowing the system to provide secure retention without requiring a complex monolithic structure
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is designed as a disposable component that is used once during assembly and then discarded or removed after surgery. This allows the use of simple, low-cost materials and structures (such as thin plastic tabs or clips) that provide adequate security during shipment and surgery but are not intended for long-term use, thereby reducing overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Retainers and retainer systems for staple cartridges with implantable adjuncts are disclosed. The retainers and retainer systems enable a compressive force to be applied to implantable adjuncts on staple cartridges.