Crosslinked Hydrogel Surgical Models with Internal Fluid Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical training methods, including the use of hydrogel models, fail to adequately simulate the surgical experience, particularly in terms of tactile feedback and the simulation of blood loss, which are crucial for training surgeons effectively.
Innovation Solution
The development of crosslinked hydrogel models that simulate the tactile properties of anatomical organs, complete with internal structures and voids accurately mapped to their real-world counterparts, and the use of simulated physiological fluids such as blood that can leak from incisions, providing a more realistic surgical simulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hydrogel models are used to simulate organs, then the tactile properties are improved, but the simulation of internal structures and fluid dynamics is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by combining hydrogel with other materials to create multi-layered structures. The hydrogel provides the outer tissue layer with realistic tactile properties, while internal structures made from different materials simulate blood vessels, tumors, and other anatomical features. This composite approach allows the model to simultaneously provide realistic touch feedback and accurate internal structure simulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing internal structures within the hydrogel matrix. Blood vessels, tumors, and other anatomical features are embedded within the organ model, creating a hierarchical structure where smaller elements are contained within larger ones. This nesting approach enables realistic simulation of internal anatomy while maintaining the overall organ shape and tactile properties.
2Ease of manufacture
If simple hydrogel models are used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to simulate blood loss and fluid dynamics is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates hydraulic principles by integrating fluid-filled channels and reservoirs within the hydrogel model. Simulated blood vessels contain fluid that can leak when incised, and tumors can be filled with fluid to simulate cysts or abscesses. This hydraulic approach enables realistic blood loss simulation while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by giving different regions of the model different properties. The hydrogel matrix provides uniform tactile properties throughout, while localized regions contain embedded structures with specific functions - blood vessels in certain areas, tumors in others, and fluid reservoirs strategically positioned. This localized differentiation enables complex fluid dynamics simulation without requiring complete redesign of the entire model.
3Measurement precision
If detailed internal structures are mapped in the model, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming internal structures before final assembly. Molds are created with embedded wiring or framework that defines the positions of blood vessels, tumors, and other anatomical features. The hydrogel is then poured into these pre-prepared molds, allowing accurate anatomical mapping to be achieved through the mold structure rather than complex post-processing of the final model.
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
These advanced hydrogel models provide a more accurate and engaging simulation of surgery, allowing practitioners to experience the tactile feedback and fluid dynamics of real surgical procedures, thereby improving training outcomes and enabling more effective comparison of surgical skills.
Implementation Method 1
a model of the anatomical organ, the model composed of a crosslinked hydrogel simulating a tactile property of the anatomical organ
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides systems and methods for improved simulation of surgical procedures, using models of anatomical organs. The models comprise models of internal components present in the anatomical organ. The models of the internal components are registered to the position which the internal component occupies in the anatomical organ, and in some embodiments the models of the anatomical organ can lose simulated physiological fluids during simulated surgery.