Fascia Closure Elements for Even Tension Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for closing abdominal fascia after surgical procedures are manual, time-consuming, and prone to uneven tension, which can lead to incisional hernias and increased risk of infection.
Innovation Solution
The use of pairs of bio-absorbable closure elements with broad-based rectangular/square shaped contact members and piercing technology to distribute forces evenly across the tissue, reducing the risk of cutting through the fascia and facilitating uniform spacing and tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional manual suture technique is used to close abdominal fascia, then the closure can be performed with simple equipment, but the tension on the suture line is unequal and the suture may cut through the fascia leading to incisional hernia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual needle and suture mechanical system with a specialized closure device featuring a curved needle, guide channel, and suture passing mechanism. This substitution provides more controlled and uniform tension distribution across the fascia closure, eliminating the unequal tension problem of manual suturing while maintaining operational feasibility through the device's integrated mechanical guidance system.
2Reliability
If small bite technique (SBT) is used to reduce incisional hernia incidence, then the hernia risk is reduced, but the suturing process becomes extremely tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated device: the curved needle for tissue engagement, the guide channel for suture routing, the tensioning mechanism for uniform force application, and the suture passing system all work together in one coordinated action. This merging allows the surgeon to achieve proper SBT closure geometry and tension control without the tedious step-by-step manual suturing process, thereby maintaining hernia prevention while significantly improving operative efficiency.
3Reliability
If additional manipulation of tissues is performed during manual closure, then the fascia can be closed, but the risk of infection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the multiple manual manipulation steps with a single integrated device insertion and closure action. The device is introduced through the surgical site and performs the entire closure sequence—engaging fascia, applying tension, and securing suture—with minimal additional tissue handling. This reduction in manipulation steps directly lowers infection risk while maintaining effective fascia closure.
4Reliability
If precise SBT suturing technical specs are required to prevent hernia, then hernia incidence is reduced, but the technique becomes difficult to replicate in real clinical settings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates self-aligning and self-regulating features into the device design. The curved needle geometry, guide channel orientation, and tensioning mechanism automatically ensure proper suture placement and uniform tension distribution without requiring the surgeon to manually adjust or precisely position each element. The device itself performs the functions that previously required highly skilled manual technique, making the precise SBT specification achievable and replicable by a broader range of practitioners.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods are provided for closing an incision through fascia or other tissue of a subject. A first closure element is positioned against tissue on a first side of the incision, a second closure element is positioned against tissue on a second side of the incision, and a fastener from or through the first closure element is directed through the tissue and the second closure element to secure the closure elements against the tissue to close the incision.