Expandable Member–Patch Assembly for Controlled Tissue Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collagen patches used in soft tissue repair introduce complexities and potential errors due to their integration and degradation processes, which can affect the repair process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a collagen patch integrated with an expandable member, such as a balloon, that progressively integrates with the tissue and degrades biologically, urging the patch towards the repair site, and is secured using sutures or other mechanisms, facilitating controlled expansion and integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a collagen patch is used for soft tissue repair, then biological integration and tissue regeneration are promoted, but device complexity and potential errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the collagen patch with an expandable member into a single integrated device. The expandable member is attached to the patch and can be inflated to apply controlled compression forces, merging the biological integration function with the mechanical stabilization function in one device, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining both tissue regeneration and mechanical support capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable member serves as an intermediary mechanism that translates simple inflation action into controlled compression forces on the tissue. By inflating the expandable member, surgeons can apply precise compressive forces to stabilize the repair site without complex mechanical systems, reducing operational complexity while ensuring reliable tissue compression for healing
2Reliability
If the expandable member is made to progressively degrade, then long-term mechanical support is reduced, but biological integration is enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the expandable member material properties over time. The member is designed to progressively degrade from a rigid, load-bearing state to a softer, more compliant state as it breaks down biologically. This time-dependent parameter change allows the device to provide strong mechanical support initially when needed most, then gradually transition to allow natural tissue healing and integration without long-term foreign body presence
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable member provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining structural integrity and providing mechanical support during the critical early healing phase. As the tissue begins to heal and gain strength, the member progressively degrades, transferring the load-bearing function to the regenerated tissue. This predetermined degradation schedule ensures mechanical support is available when needed while facilitating eventual biological integration
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
Enhances the mechanical support and biological integration of the patch, improving tissue healing by distributing tension, promoting regeneration, and reducing complications in soft tissue repairs.
Implementation Method 1
the expandable member may be formed from a material that expands in response to receipt of a fluid (e.g., forming an inflatable balloon having the expandable interior)
Implementation Method 2
The patch includes a patch material that progressively integrates with tissue of the patient (e.g., at least in part via biological processes of the patient). In a similar manner, the expandable member is formed of a member material that progressively degrades within the patient at least in part via biological processes of the patient.
Implementation Method 3
In some embodiments, the liquid may include a saline solution of a sufficient salinity to permit osmotic inflow of water to the volume of the expandable member
Data Source
AI summary
A system for surgically augmenting tissue of a patient includes a patch configured to integrate with the tissue being repaired, and an expandable member associated with the patch. The patch includes a patch material that progressively integrates with tissue of the patient. In a similar manner, the expandable member is formed of a member material that progressively degrades within the patient at least in part via biological processes of the patient. The expandable member is configured to urge the patch toward the tissue after placement in or on the patient.