Surgical Incision Closure Structure for Uniform Tissue Approximation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical incision closure devices fail to evenly bring tissue edges together, lack adjustability for closure force and distance, and are prone to displacement under surgical drapes, leading to increased scarring and procedural interference.
Innovation Solution
The incision closure device features a base with adhesive panels and a force distribution structure that allows axial expansion while limiting lateral expansion, coupled with a closure component to uniformly draw tissue edges together, and includes a sacrificial layer to prevent displacement under surgical drapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the closure device is made rigid to securely close the tissue, then the closure strength is improved, but the device cannot conform to tissue movement during the surgical procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device incorporates a dynamic structure that allows it to adapt between rigid and flexible states. The device includes a base with panels that can move relative to each other, enabling the rigid portions to provide closure strength while the flexible connections allow conformation to tissue movement during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device uses flexible panels and thin film structures that can conform to tissue contours and movement. These flexible elements are strategically placed to allow tissue deformation during surgery while maintaining overall closure integrity and providing uniform closure forces when needed.
2Reliability
If the surgical incision drape adheres to the tissue closure patch, then sterility is maintained, but the closure patch is removed or displaced during drape removal
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is segmented into distinct functional layers: a sterile barrier layer that interfaces with the drape and a tissue interface layer that remains attached to the tissue. This segmentation allows the drape to adhere to the sterile barrier without displacing the tissue closure function.
Solution Approach 2:
A sacrificial intermediate layer or protective covering is introduced between the drape and the closure patch. This intermediary layer allows the drape to adhere and be removed cleanly without transferring adhesive forces to the closure patch, preventing displacement while maintaining sterility during the procedure.
3Productivity
If the tissue edges are not brought together evenly, then the closure speed is improved, but scarring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device provides dynamically adjustable closure forces through its mechanical structure. The device can be engaged at different stages of tissue approximation, allowing rapid initial closure followed by gradual refinement to achieve even tissue edge alignment, minimizing scarring while maintaining efficient closure speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables control of closure parameters such as force magnitude and distribution. By adjusting these parameters, the device achieves both rapid closure and even tissue edge approximation, preventing the formation of uneven scars while maintaining high closure efficiency.
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 device minimizes scarring by evenly distributing closure forces, conforms to tissue deformation, and remains in place during surgical procedures, reducing procedural interference and scarring.
Implementation Method 1
a lower adhesive layer comprising a first elasticity
Implementation Method 2
a middle layer coupled to and cover at least a portion of the flexible adhesive layer and have a second elasticity less than the first elasticity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An apparatus for closing a surgical incision comprises left and right base panels, a plurality of closure components, and a plurality of left and right axial supports coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components couple the left and right base panels to each other laterally and have left and right ends coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components are positioned laterally across the left and right panels, the left axial supports are disposed between pairs of left closure component ends, the right axial supports are disposed between pairs of right closure component ends, and the left and right axial supports are offset from one another such that a serpentine arrangement of consecutive closure components and axial supports is formed. The apparatus can be made of antimicrobial materials or materials impregnated with antimicrobial agents. A flexible adhesive cover can be provided over the apparatus when in use.