Dynamic Abdominal Wall Traction System for Open Wound Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing open abdominal wounds, such as vacuum-assisted closure and existing dynamic wall traction systems, face challenges including high complexity, labor-intensive procedures, significant inflammatory responses, and difficulties in achieving safe and definitive closure of the abdominal wall.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic abdominal wall traction system comprising retaining elements sutured to the internal edges of the open abdomen, elastomeric rings connected to these elements, and traction wires allowing for variable and controlled traction forces to progressively close the open abdomen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If polypropylene mesh wall traction is used to close the abdominal wall, then the abdominal defect can be closed, but the sutures compromise 2 cm of aponeurosis on each side making definitive closure more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is divided into multiple independent elastomeric rings that can be individually adjusted and positioned along the abdominal wall edges, allowing progressive closure without compromising large sections of aponeurosis at once
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric rings provide dynamic, adjustable tension that can be modified during therapy without surgery, allowing the closure process to adapt to healing progress and reducing the need for aggressive suture fixation
2Reliability
If elastomeric rings with traction wires are used for dynamic wall traction, then progressive closure is achieved, but the system complexity and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric rings inherently provide elastic recoil and maintain tension automatically through their material properties, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms or continuous manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The closure force is controlled by changing the size and elasticity parameters of the elastomeric rings themselves rather than through complex mechanical systems, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining programmable closure progression
3Force
If a thick non-fenestrated silicone membrane is used in the ABRA system, then abdominal wall traction is provided, but it interferes with negative pressure therapy by preventing fluid drainage and NPT transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric rings are made from porous or permeable material that allows fluid passage and negative pressure transmission while maintaining structural integrity for traction, eliminating the barrier effect of solid membranes
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric rings function as flexible structures that can transmit mechanical forces and pressure gradients while allowing fluid permeation, combining the benefits of structural support with fluid dynamics requirements
4Force
If the ABRA system is used for abdominal wall closure, then traction is applied, but it generates significant inflammatory response, necrosis, and ulcerations on the abdominal wall
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric rings are designed as temporary, absorbable, or easily removable components that minimize long-term tissue exposure to foreign materials, reducing chronic inflammatory responses and tissue necrosis
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses biocompatible elastomeric materials that combine mechanical strength for traction with tissue-friendly properties, reducing inflammatory responses and tissue damage compared to traditional silicone or mesh materials
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 system enables a safe, progressive, and controlled closure of the open abdomen, minimizing damage to the aponeurotic edge, reducing complications, and facilitating the use of negative pressure therapy, while allowing for easier reinterventions and eventual primary closure.
Implementation Method 1
elastomeric rings, through which traction wires are inserted
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a dynamic abdominal wall (AW) traction system for open abdomen (OA) wounds, which can be temporarily connected to an OA wound for gradual and controlled closure, the system comprising: elastomeric rings (1), which can be connected in the vicinity of the edges of the OA; traction wires (2), intertwined in the form of a zigzag between the rings (1); a traction element (3) for exerting variable and controllable traction on the traction wires (2) and on the rings (1); and retaining elements (4), which can be connected by suturing to an internal edge of the AW and to each ring (1), such that the rings (1) and the OA wound are joined indirectly by means of the suture for connecting the respective elements.