Hernia Prosthesis Introducer with Longitudinal Slit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for repairing small hernias, such as umbilical or inguinal hernias, face challenges in introducing a flexible prosthesis through small incisions due to limited working space and visibility, often requiring additional tools and risking contact with incision edges.
Innovation Solution
A device with a tubular body and longitudinal slit allows for easy folding and introduction of a flexible prosthesis, featuring a distal semi-tubular rounded extension for small incision entry and proximal semi-tubular extension for automatic folding, along with markings for accurate dissection and a transparent material for visibility, ensuring precise placement without damaging tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a flexible prosthesis is introduced through a small incision using conventional methods, then the incision size can be kept small, but additional instruments are required to grasp the prosthesis and the risk of contact with incision edges increases
Solution Approach 1:
The introducing device combines multiple functions into a single instrument: the tubular body serves as both the delivery conduit and the grasping mechanism, while the distal extension integrates the functions of incision penetration and prosthesis engagement. This eliminates the need for separate grasping instruments and reduces procedural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The introducing device is designed with multi-functionality: the tubular body can be introduced through the incision, the distal extension engages the prosthesis, and the longitudinal slit allows for prosthesis deployment. A single device performs what would traditionally require multiple specialized instruments.
2Length of moving object
If a flexible prosthesis is folded for introduction through a small incision, then the prosthesis can be introduced through minimal access, but the prosthesis may lose its shape and require additional tools for deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis is pre-formed with a frame that maintains its desired three-dimensional shape even when folded for introduction. The frame structure is designed to be collapsible yet shape-retaining, allowing the prosthesis to be introduced in a compact state while preserving its functional geometry for deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthesis frame is designed to be self-deploying: once the constraining force of the introducing device is released, the frame's elastic properties cause it to automatically expand to its pre-formed three-dimensional shape without requiring additional deployment instruments or manual manipulation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the prosthesis is introduced through a small incision, then patient trauma is reduced, but the surgeon has limited working space and visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The introducing device features a nested structure where the prosthesis is contained within the tubular body, which itself is introduced through the incision. The longitudinal slit allows the prosthesis to be deployed while remaining within the constraints of the small incision pathway, maintaining minimal access benefits while enabling prosthesis expansion at the target site.
Solution Approach 2:
The prosthesis transitions from a one-dimensional linear folded state during introduction to a three-dimensional expanded state at the implantation site. The frame structure enables this dimensional transformation, allowing the prosthesis to occupy minimal space during passage through the incision while providing adequate coverage and structural integrity when deployed.
4Ease of operation
If the prosthesis is deployed after introduction, then the prosthesis can assume its functional configuration, but the risk of contact with incision edges during introduction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The introducing device serves as an intermediary protective barrier between the prosthesis and the incision edges. The tubular body envelops the prosthesis during introduction, preventing direct contact between the prosthesis and incision tissue. The longitudinal slit is positioned and designed to allow prosthesis deployment while maintaining this protective barrier function throughout the introduction and deployment process.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (1) for introducing a flexible prosthesis into a surgical incision, comprising a globally tubular body (2) having a proximal end (2a) and a distal end (2b), said tubular body being designed for receiving the prosthesis in a folded configuration in a sliding way, wherein the tubular body is provided with an open longitudinal slit (3) extending from said proximal end (2a) to said distal end (2b), and wherein said tubular body has a substantially oblong cross-section.