Intra-Vaginal Device for Fecal Incontinence via Segmented Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for fecal incontinence in women are ineffective and uncomfortable, with existing devices failing to stably and comfortably occlude the rectum, leading to limited success in controlling stool passage.

Innovation Solution

An intra-vaginal device designed to maintain stability through engagement with internal vaginal anatomy, featuring a stabilizing portion and an occluding portion that extends to partially occlude the rectum, with features such as a flattened stabilizing body and a cushioning portion to minimize tissue stretch and discomfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing intra-vaginal devices are used to occlude the rectum, then stool passage control is achieved, but device stability and comfort are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestool passage controlVSAvoiddevice stability and comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a stabilizing portion with flared lateral ends for anchoring in the vagina, and an occluding portion for rectal occlusion. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The stabilizing portion features asymmetric flared lateral ends that are wider than the central body, creating an anchor-like structure that engages with vaginal walls. This asymmetric geometry provides enhanced stability and prevents device rotation or displacement while maintaining comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If the occluding portion extends to occlude the rectum, then stool passage is controlled, but tissue stretch and discomfort increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverectal occlusionVSAvoidtissue stretch and discomfort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The occluding portion incorporates a cushioning portion with localized cushioning material at the interface with vaginal tissue. This local quality enhancement distributes pressure and reduces tissue stretch at the most sensitive areas while maintaining effective rectal occlusion force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The cushioning material is pre-integrated into the occluding portion structure, providing protective cushioning before the device is inserted and used. This beforehand cushioning prevents tissue damage and discomfort during the occlusion process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Ease of operation

If the stabilizing body is flattened to minimize tissue stretch, then comfort is improved, but structural support may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecomfortVSAvoidstructural support

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilizing body transitions from a potentially bulky three-dimensional structure to a flattened, planar configuration. This dimensional reduction minimizes tissue stretch and improves comfort while the flared lateral ends provide sufficient structural support through their geometric configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20230115705A1Intra-Vaginal Devices and Methods for Treating Fecal Incontinence

Publication Date: 2023.04.13 PELVALON

AI summary

Devices and methods for intra-vaginal bowel control.