Flexible Fluid Containment Strip for Intestinal Fistula Effluent Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for managing intestinal fistulas are inadequate due to their complexity, inability to adapt to various wound types, and failure to maintain a seal under negative pressure wound therapy, leading to frequent dressing changes and increased risk of infection.
Innovation Solution
A flexible fluid containment strip that can be cut to fit any wound shape, collapses under pressure, and creates a seal to prevent effluent from escaping, interfacing with a pouch appliance to capture effluent and bowel contents, reducing the need for ostomy adhesive and allowing for custom fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid containment devices are used to control effluent, then effluent containment is improved, but adaptability to various wound shapes and sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The containment device utilizes a flexible membrane or film structure that can conform to various wound geometries while maintaining effluent containment. The flexible material allows the device to adapt to irregular wound shapes and sizes without compromising the seal or containment effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to change shape and configuration in response to different wound characteristics. The flexible structure can be molded or adjusted during application to match the specific geometry of each wound, providing both adaptability and reliable containment.
2Reliability
If multi-component devices are used to control effluent, then effluent containment is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functional components into a single integrated device. The containment barrier, sealing mechanism, and effluent collection features are merged into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying the application process while maintaining effective effluent containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - containing effluent, sealing against the wound bed, collecting fluid, and adapting to various wound shapes - all within a single component structure, reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If ostomy adhesive is used to create a seal, then initial sealing is improved, but seal longevity deteriorates due to moisture from effluent
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a disposable containment device that creates a mechanical or structural seal rather than relying on adhesive bonds. The device is designed to be changed periodically, eliminating the problem of adhesive degradation from moisture while maintaining reliable sealing during each use period.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible containment membrane acts as an intermediary barrier between the effluent and the wound bed, creating a physical seal that does not depend on adhesive properties. This intermediate structure prevents direct contact between moisture and any bonding surfaces, preserving seal integrity.
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 contains and controls effluent, extends dressing life, and promotes wound healing by preventing infection and tissue damage, allowing patients to resume normal activities during the healing process.
Implementation Method 1
collapses under pressure
Implementation Method 2
creating a seal to prevent effluent from escaping
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3H
AI summary
Devices to contain and control the effluent or gastric juices of intestinal fistulas, other fistulas, stomas, and other wounds. The device includes a flexible fluid containment lineal strip defining a fluid containment wall which collapses when pressure is applied to the wound dressing, means for forming the lineal strip into any open or closed shape to fit wounds of various shape and size, means for joining the lineal strip to create closed effluent containment areas, means for creating a seal at the wound bed interface whereby effluent is contained, and means for interfacing with a pouch appliance to capture effluent and bowel contents until bowel contents can be emptied into a toilet or other waste receptacle.