Self-Expanding Hernia Patch Hoisting Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hernia repair methods face challenges in delivering and expanding prosthesis patches through small openings, as they often require complex deployment and fixation techniques, and there is a need for a solution that simplifies the process while ensuring effective coverage of the defect.
Innovation Solution
A prosthesis system comprising a patch body and a self-expanding hoisting frame with a tether and force translation component, allowing the patch to be reduced in size for minimally invasive delivery and expanded post-deployment, facilitated by a self-expanding support member that assists in spreading the patch and securing it to the tissue wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the patch is reduced in size for delivery through a narrow cannula, then the ease of minimally invasive delivery is improved, but the ability to cover the defect is worsened until expansion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patch is designed to be dynamic, transitioning from a compressed low-profile state for delivery through the cannula to an expanded state for defect coverage. The patch includes expansion elements such as radially expandable rings or shape memory materials that enable this dynamic transformation, allowing the same structure to satisfy both the small delivery size requirement and the large coverage area requirement at different stages of the procedure.
2Extent of automation
If a resilient support member is used to expand the patch after deployment, then the automatic expansion capability is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patch incorporates self-expanding mechanisms such as shape memory alloys or superelastic materials that automatically return the patch to its predetermined expanded configuration after being deployed through the cannula. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex external expansion mechanisms or manual manipulation, allowing the patch to expand autonomously upon deployment while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
3Ease of operation
If the hoisting frame is designed for easy withdrawal through the same opening, then the ease of removal is improved, but the structural stability during expansion is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The hoisting frame is segmented into multiple components that can be sequentially detached or collapsed. The frame includes separable elements such as modular struts or articulated joints that allow the structure to be disassembled into smaller segments for withdrawal through the cannula. During the expansion phase, these segments work together to provide the necessary structural stability, but can be easily separated for removal, thus resolving the contradiction between stability during use and ease of withdrawal.
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
Enables efficient and minimally invasive hernia repair by allowing the patch to expand and secure itself to the tissue wall, simplifying the deployment process and ensuring effective defect coverage, while allowing for easy withdrawal of the hoisting frame and support member through the same opening.
Implementation Method 1
a self-expanding support member coupled to the outer frame component to assist in expanding the hoisting frame from a reduced configuration to an expanded configuration
Data Source
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AI summary
A prosthesis for repairing a hernia defect includes a patch body, a hoisting frame releasably attachable to the patch body, and a tether attached to the hoisting frame with a free end extendable through the thickness of the patch body and accessible from the side of the patch body opposite to where the hoisting frame is releasably attached. The patch body and/or the hoisting frame includes a self-expanding support member. The hoisting frame includes a frame body with an outer frame component and a force translation component for directing pulling forces on the tether across the frame body. The outer frame component has a loop configuration to generally follow the patch periphery with overlapping end portions or a gap between free ends thereof. The force translation component is separable into multiple segments to facilitate withdrawal of the hoisting frame through an opening when released from the patch.