Minimally Invasive Implant Removal Needle with Force Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing small implanted devices, such as helical wire rope structures, from the body often require surgical procedures or open cuts, which can damage delicate anatomical structures and are invasive.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive removal system using a specialized removal needle with various attachment tools like hooking slots, corkscrews, and prongs that mechanically connect to the implant, allowing for blunt separation and removal without cutting or breaking, utilizing a force limiting and smoothing mechanism to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If surgical procedures or open cuts are used to remove implanted devices, then complete removal of the implant is achieved, but damage to delicate anatomical structures occurs and invasiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The removal system segments the extraction process into distinct functional components: a needle for access, an attachment tool for mechanical engagement with the implant, and a force limiting mechanism for controlled extraction. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while minimizing overall trauma to anatomical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment tool serves as an intermediary between the removal needle and the implant. It mechanically connects to the implant through features like hooking slots or corkscrew engagement, allowing force to be applied to the implant without direct contact between the needle and implant, thereby reducing damage risk to surrounding tissues.
2Ease of operation
If surgical procedures are used to remove implants, then access to the implant is achieved, but invasiveness and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The removal system employs a nested structure where the attachment tool is contained within the needle lumen during insertion, and the implant is captured within the attachment tool. This nested arrangement allows all components to be delivered through a single needle puncture, eliminating the need for separate surgical incisions and reducing procedural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment tool features self-engaging mechanisms such as hooking slots that automatically capture the implant or corkscrew threads that self-thread into the implant structure. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex manual manipulation during the removal procedure, simplifying the operational process.
3Productivity
If force is applied to remove implants from surrounding tissue, then extraction is achieved, but cutting, ripping or breaking of the implant may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The force limiting mechanism is pre-configured with a maximum force threshold before the removal procedure begins. This beforehand cushioning ensures that even if excessive force is applied, the mechanism will prevent transmission of forces that could cut, rip, or break the implant, while still allowing sufficient force for complete extraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The force limiting mechanism dynamically controls the force parameter during extraction, allowing full extraction force to be applied initially and then automatically reducing the force threshold as the implant approaches complete removal. This parameter change ensures both complete extraction and structural integrity maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for minimally invasive removal of small implanted devices, without surgery or open cut down, by blunt separation from tissue. An introducer tool penetrates tissue and a removal needle with rounded elements attaches the implant without cutting. Force limiting and smoothing also prevents implant from shearing during removal.