Gastrostomy Tube Adaptor with Radial Compression Lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Gastrostomy tubes with long lengths are prone to removal or dislodgment, especially in ambulatory patients, due to their susceptibility to being caught on objects or disturbed, which can lead to complications such as accidental removal or reflux of gastric contents.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a connector with a stem and locking mechanism that compresses the gastrostomy tube, allowing for secure fluid communication and attachment of a feeding tube assembly, which can be rotated and includes a one-way valve to prevent reflux, enabling a low-profile and secure gastrostomy tube system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a long gastrostomy tube is used, then fluid communication and feeding access are maintained, but the tube is prone to removal or dislodgment due to being caught on objects or disturbed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetube retentionVSAvoidtube length

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The gastrostomy tube system is divided into multiple segments: an implanted portion within the patient, an external portion that can be managed separately, and a connector assembly. This segmentation allows the tube to be secured at the implant site while managing the external length to prevent dislodgment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assembly includes a stem that fits within the gastrostomy tube lumen, and a compression structure that nests around the tube end region. This nested configuration secures the tube to the connector, preventing removal while maintaining fluid communication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If a secure locking mechanism is added to prevent tube removal, then tube retention improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetube retentionVSAvoidconnector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compression structure is biased radially inward to automatically compress the gastrostomy tube end region when the stem is inserted. This self-actuating mechanism secures the tube without requiring additional locking steps or complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical locking mechanism replaces complex multi-component fastening systems with a simpler compression-based retention system. The radially inward bias provides continuous securing force through elastic or spring elements, eliminating the need for threads, clips, or multiple fastening steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If a compression structure is added to secure the tube, then tube retention improves, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetube retentionVSAvoidconnector manufacturing

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The compression structure utilizes material properties such as elastic modulus and radial bias force to achieve tube retention. By selecting materials with appropriate mechanical properties, the connector can provide secure retention through controlled compression without requiring complex geometries or assembly steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system provides a secure and low-profile solution for long-term use, reducing the risk of tube removal and reflux, while allowing for easy access and comfortable placement, enhancing patient safety and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

a locking region extending from the connector and proximate to at least a portion of the stem may be configured to be radially inwardly biased to compress at least a portion of the end region of the gastrostomy tube positionable upon the stem

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadial compression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

includes a one-way valve to prevent reflux

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOne-way valve mechanism: Valve

Data Source

PatentUS8858533B2Methods and systems for providing fluid communication with a gastrostomy tube

Publication Date: 2014.10.14 CR BARD INC

AI summary

A low profile adaptor is disclosed to reduce the length of a gastrostomy tube that has been inserted by means of conventional endoscopic procedures or with a replacement feeding tube inserted into the patient's stomach. The gastrostomy tube is cut to the appropriate length by the physician. The adaptor comprises a stem which is inserted into the open end of the gastrostomy tube. The valve assembly contains a seal that functions as a one-way valve to prevent reflux of gastric contents but permits the introduction of feeding solution into the feeding tube. A lock and key mechanism is incorporated into the hub of the gastrostomy tube to prevent disconnection of the feeding tube. A cover is placed over the opening of the adapter to prevent contamination of the lumen of the gastrostomy tube.