Intrauterine Device Retrieval Thread for Cut-Free Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IUD systems require an additional step of cutting the thread after insertion, which adds time, discomfort, and risk of injury or infection, due to the need for a sharp cutting device in the vaginal cavity.
Innovation Solution
An IUD system with a retrieval thread permanently attached and a predetermined length, eliminating the need for post-insertion cutting, and featuring a release thread for secure delivery and a visible marker for confirmation of placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the retrieval thread is made long enough to extend through the inserter to its proximal end for loading and securing the IUD, then the IUD can be securely loaded and positioned in the inserter, but the thread becomes excessively long requiring post-insertion cutting with sharp instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the retrieval thread with a specific length that is sufficient for IUD loading and securing in the inserter but not excessively long. The thread is designed to extend from the distal end through the inserter to a point near the proximal end, allowing secure loading without requiring post-insertion cutting. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for sharp cutting instruments while maintaining ease of operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the retrieval thread is cut to a shorter length after IUD placement, then the thread no longer extends out of the vagina causing physical discomfort and infection risk, but additional time and instrumentation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the retrieval thread length to a specific range that balances two opposing requirements: long enough to extend through the cervix into the vaginal cavity for secure retrieval and verification, but short enough to not extend excessively out of the vagina causing discomfort or infection risk. This parameter optimization eliminates the need for post-insertion cutting, saving time and eliminating the use of additional sharp instruments.
3Length of stationary object
If sterile sharp scissors are inserted into the vaginal cavity to cut the thread, then the thread length is reduced to a useful length, but the risk of accidentally dislodging the IUD increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the harmful element (sharp cutting instruments) from the procedure. Instead of using sterile sharp scissors that pose risks of injury and IUD dislodgement, the invention extracts this unnecessary step by designing the retrieval thread with an optimal predetermined length that does not require cutting. The thread is simply trimmed at the factory to the appropriate length, eliminating post-insertion manipulation and associated risks.
4Reliability
If the retrieval thread is made long for IUD loading and securing, then the IUD can be reliably positioned in the inserter, but the thread must be much longer than needed for retrieval or verification alone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the retrieval thread to serve multiple functions with an optimized length. The thread is long enough to extend from the distal end of the inserter through the cervix into the vaginal cavity, allowing it to function for both securing the IUD in the inserter during insertion and for subsequent retrieval and verification. This eliminates the need for excessive length while maintaining all necessary functions.
Data Source
AI summary
An intrauterine contraceptive system may include a contraceptive intrauterine device, a retrieval thread permanently attached to the intrauterine device and an insertion device for inserting the intrauterine device into a uterus. The system may also include a release thread releasably coupled with the intrauterine device. The intrauterine device may be deployable out of a distal end of the insertion device and may be configured to change from a delivery configuration when housed in the insertion device to a deployed configuration when deployed in a uterus. The retrieval thread and the optional release thread may be at least partially housed within the insertion device during insertion of the intrauterine device into the uterus. The release thread may extend from the intrauterine device through the insertion device to an attachment point at or near a proximal end of the insertion device.