Fecal Incontinence Plug with Variable Firmness Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for fecal incontinence, including surgical and non-surgical methods, are inadequate in effectively managing both solid and liquid discharges, and existing anal plugs are poorly tolerated due to discomfort and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A novel fecal incontinence plug designed to reside primarily in the anal canal, with a small portion in the lower rectum, made of soft, elastic material that conforms to the anatomy, providing superior sealing and anchoring without applying perceptible pressure, and is capable of accommodating varying anal canal lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing anal plugs are used to prevent fecal discharge, then sealing function is provided, but discomfort and poor tolerance occur due to pressure application
Solution Approach 1:
The plug incorporates zones of varying firmness with a softer distal portion contacting the anal canal walls and a firmer proximal portion providing structural support. This local differentiation allows effective sealing without applying excessive pressure that causes discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is constructed from composite materials including foam layers with different densities and firmness levels, combined with elastic components. This composite structure enables simultaneous achievement of sealing reliability and comfort by distributing pressure appropriately across different regions.
2Reliability
If surgical methods are used to treat fecal incontinence, then continence control is improved, but invasiveness and recovery time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The plug serves as an intermediary device that provides continence control without requiring surgical intervention. It mechanically supports the anal sphincter function and can be combined with electrical stimulation as a non-invasive intermediary approach to restore continence control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces invasive surgical mechanical repairs with a non-invasive mechanical plug device that can be easily inserted and removed. This substitution eliminates surgical complexity while providing comparable continence control through a simpler mechanical approach.
3Device complexity
If non-surgical methods are used to treat fecal incontinence, then invasiveness is reduced, but effectiveness in managing both solid and liquid discharges is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is segmented into multiple functional zones including a distal sealing portion, a midsection with electrical stimulation capability, and a proximal support portion. This segmentation allows the single non-invasive device to effectively manage both solid and liquid discharges through differentiated regional functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug integrates multiple functions including mechanical sealing, electrical stimulation, and structural support within a single non-invasive device. This multi-functionality enables effective management of both solid and liquid discharges while maintaining low invasiveness.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a plug is designed to accommodate varying anal canal lengths, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plug incorporates dynamic elements including collapsible sections and flexible materials that allow the device to adapt its length and shape to match varying anal canal dimensions. This dynamic adaptability is achieved through simple flexible construction rather than complex adjustable mechanisms.
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 plug effectively prevents unwanted discharge of fecal fluids and solids, reducing the need for frequent changes and improving continence by sealing along the anal canal and lower rectum, while being comfortable and imperceptible to the user.
Implementation Method 1
made of soft, elastic material that conforms to the anatomy
Data Source
AI summary
A device for treating fecal incontinence in a subject is provided. The device includes a plug configured for positioning mostly within an anal canal of the subject.