Biocompatible Ear Splint System for Non-Surgical Deformity Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Congenital auricular deformities such as prominent ear, cup ear, lop ear, and constricted ear pose challenges for non-surgical correction, as existing methods fail to effectively address the complex anatomical structures of the ear.
Innovation Solution
A biocompatible splint system with adhesive surfaces is used to correct ear deformities by reshaping the antihelix, scapha, and concha areas, employing a method that involves placing splints and stents to maintain desired anatomical configurations, and using a wrap-around material to expand the skin and cartilage for proper alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If surgical means are used to correct ear deformities, then correction effectiveness is improved, but invasiveness and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ear is divided into multiple anatomical regions (helix, antihelix, scapha, concha, tragus) with specific splints assigned to each region. Each splint addresses localized deformities independently, allowing non-surgical correction of complex ear shapes through coordinated regional treatment rather than invasive surgical intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
Splints are applied in the neonatal period when ear cartilage is soft and highly moldable, before the ear structure becomes fixed. This preliminary intervention during the critical window of cartilage plasticity achieves correction effectiveness comparable to surgery but without invasive procedures, as the cartilage naturally conforms to the splint shape.
2Ease of operation
If adhesive materials are used to secure splints, then ease of application is improved, but skin irritation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive cover is made from porous breathable material that allows skin respiration while maintaining adhesion. This reduces skin irritation and maceration risks associated with occlusive adhesives, enabling safe long-term wear of the splint system without compromising ease of application.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive system combines multiple materials with complementary properties: a medically approved adhesive layer for secure bonding, a porous breathable intermediate layer for skin protection and moisture management, and a flexible outer layer for comfort. This composite structure achieves both ease of application and skin compatibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the adhesive cover is made breathable, then skin health is improved, but adhesive strength may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive cover utilizes a multi-layer composite structure where the adhesive layer provides bonding strength, the intermediate porous layer maintains breathability and skin health, and the outer flexible layer ensures comfort and durability. This composite design achieves both skin health protection and adequate adhesive strength for secure splint attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The porous structure of the adhesive cover is engineered to allow controlled breathability while maintaining sufficient adhesion. The porosity enables skin respiration to prevent irritation and infection, while the overall material composition and bonding mechanism preserve the adhesive strength necessary for secure splint fixation during the correction period.
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 solution effectively corrects ear deformities by reshaping the ear's anatomical structures without surgery, providing a stable and breathable environment, reducing the risk of skin irritation and infection, and allowing for long-term use.
Implementation Method 1
a biocompatible material with a first adhesive surface and a second adhesive surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a base section defining an opening dimensioned to accommodate the passage of the ear through the opening and a top section releasably engageable with the base section defining a compartment therebetween. A first stint can be arranged on an anterior surface of the base section to maintain a desired anatomic shape of the ear essentially in an area of the antihelix and the superior limb of the triangular fossa. A second stint can be placed in an area of the scapha of the ear to maintain a desired contour of the scaphal area. A conchal stint can be placed in the concha to maintain a desired anatomic shape of the concha. The top section can be engaged to maintain a desired amount of stabilizing pressure on the ear, the first stint, the second stint, and conchal stint.