Cytokine Enrichment System for Arthroscopic Tissue Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved devices and methods to collect and process tissue fragments during arthroscopic surgeries to enrich cytokines and growth factors like IL-1Ra, IL-6, IL-10, VEGF, EFG, HGF, PDGF, BMP-9, IGF, TGF-β, and other factors for treating inflammation and joint issues.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a containment device with a cap, first and second inserts, and adaptors that allow fluid flow and tissue fragment collection, using a filter to retain fragments, and a method involving centrifugation and incubation with a biological sample to produce cytokine- or growth factor-enriched biological samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If tissue fragments are collected and processed to enrich cytokines and growth factors, then the concentration of beneficial substances (IL-1Ra, VEGF, PDGF, etc.) is improved, but the complexity of the processing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs nested components where the filter is placed inside the collection device, and the collection device is integrated with the containment system. This allows multiple functions (collection, filtration, and enrichment) to be performed within a compact, integrated structure, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high concentration of cytokines and growth factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing system is divided into distinct functional modules: a collection device for gathering tissue fragments, a filter for separating fragments from fluid, and a containment device for processing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve cytokine enrichment, balancing functionality with manageable complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If a filter is used to retain tissue fragments, then the purity of the collected fluid is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is integrated directly into the collection device structure, merging the filtration function with the collection function. This eliminates the need for separate filtration components and reduces system complexity while maintaining high fluid purity through effective tissue fragment retention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adaptors and inserts are used for fluid flow control, then the versatility of the system is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptors and inserts are designed with universal connection features that allow them to perform multiple functions. For example, the adaptors can connect to different surgical irrigation systems and control various fluid flows, while the inserts can be configured for different filtration needs. This multi-functionality reduces the number of specialized components needed, simplifying assembly and operation.
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 effectively enriches cytokines and growth factors, enabling their use in treating inflammation, inflammatory joints, and preventing post-surgical joint inflammation by producing IL-1Ra-enriched biological samples for administration.
Implementation Method 1
a cylindrical filter connected to the second adaptor, configured to extend into the containment device
Implementation Method 2
centrifuging the system to separate the tissue fragments from the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for preparing enriched biological samples, and methods of use thereof are described herein. The systems can include a containment device connected to a first insert to collect tissue fragments in the containment device or to a second insert to incubate tissue fragments with a blood sample in the containment device. The methods can include methods for preparing a cytokine or growth factor-enriched biological sample, such as IL-1 Ra-enriched serum, methods of treating inflammation, inflammatory joint, or rheumatoid arthritis, and methods of preventing inflammation of a joint following arthroscopic surgery.