Inflatable Rectal Device with Fluted Surface for Peristalsis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for fecal incontinence are either invasive, painful, or unreliable, and existing devices often fail to remain in place within the rectum due to peristaltic movements, leading to ineffective management of bowel control.
Innovation Solution
A fecal incontinence controlling device with an inflatable body that has a corrugated, fluted, or furrowed outer surface, which remains in place above the dentate line during peristaltic movements, utilizing inflating and deflating means to maintain position and a withdrawal mechanism for easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a device is inserted into the rectum to control fecal incontinence, then bowel control is improved, but the device is pushed out by peristaltic movements
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic structure that can change configuration in response to peristaltic movements. The collapsible body and adjustable cuff allow the device to flex and adapt to intestinal movements, maintaining its blocking function while being pushed by peristalsis. The device transitions between expanded and collapsed states to accommodate the dynamic environment of the rectum.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into functional segments: a collapsible body portion, an inflatable cuff, and a control mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to respond differently to peristaltic forces - the body can collapse to reduce profile while the cuff maintains sealing pressure, enabling the device to remain effective despite positional changes.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a device remains in the rectum for extended periods, then bowel control is maintained, but pain and tissue damage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes a flexible, thin-walled collapsible body that can conform to the rectal wall without creating rigid pressure points. This flexibility distributes pressure evenly and allows the device to move with tissue rather than pressing against it, enabling extended wear without causing pain or damage to the highly innervated rectal region.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be removable and reusable rather than implanted permanently. The external control mechanism allows the blocking function to be activated only when needed, and the device can be completely removed after use, eliminating continuous pressure and potential tissue damage while maintaining bowel control during critical periods.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the device is inserted above the dentate line, then pain is reduced, but the device must be large enough to block fecal matter
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs dynamic volume adjustment through inflation and deflation of the cuff and body. When positioned above the dentate line in the less sensitive rectal region, the device can be inflated to an adequate size to block fecal matter effectively. The dynamic expansion allows the device to achieve necessary blocking volume without requiring a permanently large size that would cause discomfort during insertion and movement.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is directed to a device and a method for controlling fecal incontinence. The device of this invention is easily inserted into the rectum, and is designed for remaining where required in the rectum, above the dentate line and hemorrhoidal vein area, despite the peristaltic movements of the intestine.