Fabric-Like Hernia Plug With Shape-Memory Mesh for Low-Trauma Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hernia meshes result in poor tissue regrowth, tearing, bleeding, and nerve entrapment, leading to discomfort and pain, and are not tension-free, complicating surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A fabric-like hernia plug formed from a shape memory alloy (SMA), such as nitinol, that transforms between a compressed and expanded state, allowing secure deployment and integration with minimal tissue damage, using a smart memory effect to stabilize the hernia defect site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hernia meshes are used for repair, then the hernia defect can be covered, but poor tissue regrowth, tearing, bleeding, and nerve entrapment occur leading to discomfort and pain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the repair material by using shape memory alloy (SMA) with unique phase transformation properties. The SMA transitions between martensite (soft, deformable) and austenite (rigid, stable) phases, fundamentally altering the material's mechanical behavior to be more biocompatible and less harmful to surrounding tissues compared to conventional meshes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs composite construction by combining shape memory alloy struts with fabric material. This composite structure integrates the shape memory effect of the SMA framework with the flexibility and tissue integration properties of the fabric, creating a material that reduces mechanical toxicity while maintaining structural integrity for reliable tissue regrowth
2Ease of operation
If conventional hernia meshes are used, then the defect is covered, but the procedure is not tension-free and becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating shape memory alloy that can dynamically change its mechanical properties in response to temperature changes. The SMA structure transitions from a soft, compliant state during implantation to a rigid, stable state after deployment, automatically adapting to surgical requirements without requiring complex tension management techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy performs self-service by automatically adjusting its own mechanical properties through phase transformation. The material self-regulates its stiffness and shape in response to body temperature, eliminating the need for complex external tension management systems and simplifying the surgical procedure
3Area of stationary object
If a large hernia plug is deployed, then complete coverage of the defect is achieved, but insertion through small incision becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by designing the hernia plug to be collapsed into a compact, minimally invasive configuration that can be inserted through small incisions. The shape memory alloy structure allows the large-area plug to be nested within a small delivery catheter, then automatically expand to full size once deployed at the hernia site
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes dimensionality change by transforming the hernia plug from a three-dimensional expanded state (for coverage) to a one-dimensional collapsed state (for insertion). The shape memory alloy enables this dimensional transformation through phase-induced shape change, allowing the device to navigate through narrow surgical pathways and then expand to provide complete defect coverage
4Reliability
If shape memory alloy is used to transform between compressed and expanded states, then secure deployment is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the hernia plug into discrete modular units or struts made of shape memory alloy. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standardized processes, then assembled into the final device, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of SMA
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 hernia plug minimizes patient pain, reduces complications, and simplifies surgical procedures by providing a secure, biocompatible, and flexible solution for hernia repair with reduced mechanical toxicity.
Implementation Method 1
a mesh portion transformable between a compressed pre-activated state and an expanded post-activated state, and the mesh portion comprises a plurality of open cells surrounded by struts formed of a smart memory alloy (SMA)
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed examples generally relate to a fabric-like smart hernia plug and method of using thereof. In some examples, the hernia plug comprises an expandable mesh portion formed of a smart memory alloy (SMA), wherein the mesh portion is transformable between a compressed pre-activated state and an expanded post-activated state, the mesh portion comprising a plurality of open cells surrounded by struts formed of the SMA.