Interlocking Tissue Matrix for Secure Bone Fixation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tissue treatment methods face challenges in securely positioning and adjusting sutures around tissue or bone, particularly when the tissue or bone shape does not allow for a slip-over configuration, leading to increased time and complexity in securing tissue or bone relative to other structures in the body.

Innovation Solution

A composition comprising interlocking components, such as holes or slits and tabs with flared sections, that can be wrapped around tissue or bone without the need for sutures, allowing for secure attachment and adjustment by interlocking mechanisms that prevent retraction, utilizing a tissue matrix for flexibility and compatibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If sutures are used to secure tissue or bone, then the tissue can be retained relative to other structures, but the procedural time increases and the complexity of the procedure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetissue retentionVSAvoidprocedural time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the time-consuming suture tying step from the tissue securing process by using a pre-formed mesh structure with integrated anchoring features. The mesh is simply positioned and secured with minimal suturing or alternative fixation methods, eliminating the need for complex suture manipulation and knot tying while maintaining reliable tissue retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The mesh structure serves as an intermediary between the tissue and the securing mechanism. Instead of directly suturing tissue to tissue or tissue to bone, the mesh acts as a mediator that distributes forces and provides a stable framework for tissue retention, simplifying the fixation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If sutures are used to secure tissue or bone, then the tissue can be retained relative to other structures, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetissue retentionVSAvoidprocedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mesh is divided into multiple cells or openings with integrated anchoring features at specific locations. This segmentation allows the mesh to be customized for different anatomical sites and provides multiple discrete anchoring points that simplify the securing process compared to using continuous sutures around the entire tissue structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mesh structure is designed to be self-retaining through its geometric configuration and material properties. The mesh maintains its shape and provides inherent stability without requiring complex external fixation devices, reducing procedural complexity while ensuring reliable tissue retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a slip over type product is used, then the positioning is simplified, but the product cannot be used when the tissue or bone shape does not permit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning easeVSAvoidanatomical adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mesh structure incorporates regions with different properties - some areas are designed for easy positioning and wrapping around the tissue, while other specific locations include reinforced anchoring features such as tabs, protrusions, or integrated sutures. This local differentiation allows the mesh to adapt to various anatomical shapes while maintaining ease of operation in the positioning regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The mesh is designed with flexible segments that can dynamically adapt to different anatomical configurations. The mesh can be stretched, folded, or shaped during positioning to accommodate various tissue or bone geometries, then locked into place using the integrated anchoring features, providing both ease of operation and anatomical versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3180045B1Tissue matrices and methods of treatment
Publication Date: 2020.02.19 LIFECELL CORP
  • EP3180045B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3180045B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3180045B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

Methods and devices for treatment of tissues are provided. The methods can be used to interlock a composition with tissue for protection or engagement of the tissue. The devices can be used to treat a number of treatment sites, for example, to provide structural support to injured or surgically altered tissues and/or to secure tissues and/or implants in place.