Contrasting Stitching Threads for Surgical Sponge Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical sponges with matching thread and gauze colors become less visible when soaked in blood and body fluids, and it is difficult to identify loose threads during quality control and operations.
Innovation Solution
The surgical sponge features contrasting threads in terms of color and/or texture, made from non-absorbing materials, which are visibly distinct from the white gauze, even when soaked in fluids, and are arranged in a pattern that includes stitches along and around the open sides as well as diagonally across the sponge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If threads are made in matching color with gauze (traditionally white), then the sponge maintains a uniform appearance and aesthetic quality, but the sponge becomes less visible when soaked in red blood and body fluids during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color contrast by using threads in colors that contrast with both the white gauze background and red blood stains. Specifically, fluorescent yellow-green or orange threads are used, which remain highly visible against white gauze and maintain visibility even when stained with blood, thereby resolving the contradiction between uniform appearance and operational visibility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If threads are made in matching color with gauze, then the sponge has a clean uniform appearance, but it is difficult to identify loose threads during quality control process and during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The contrasting colored threads (fluorescent yellow-green or orange) enable easy identification of loose threads during quality control and surgical procedures. The color difference creates visual contrast that makes defective loose threads immediately distinguishable from the finished product, solving the identification difficulty while maintaining acceptable aesthetic appearance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If threads are made from absorbing materials, then the threads integrate with the gauze fabric structure, but the threads become stained by blood and other fluids losing their visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the threads non-absorbent while the gauze remains absorbent. This differential property allows the threads to maintain their color and visibility by repelling blood and fluids, while the gauze continues to perform its absorbent function. The threads are specifically made from materials like polyester or nylon that do not absorb bodily fluids, preventing staining and maintaining visibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a surgical sponge which includes multiple plies of gauze and stitches. The multiple plies of gauze has one or more open sides. The stitches are adapted to fasten or close the open sides. The stitches are made with one or more contrasting threads.