Magnetic Distraction Abdominal Closure with Bioabsorbable Anchors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for closing the abdominal wall after surgery often result in incisional hernias due to inadequate tissue healing and high tension on sutures, which can lead to complications such as fascial dehiscence and primary or recurrent hernia formation.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnetic distraction linked to bioabsorbable tissue anchors to restore near-normal anatomy of the abdominal wall by gradually distracting tissues to their premorbid position without compromising function, while avoiding permanent mesh or other implantable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If suture closure is used to close the abdominal wall, then the wound can be closed, but high tension on the suture leads to tissue cutting and fascial dehiscence
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system divides the abdominal wall into multiple anchoring points with individual sutures or tensioning elements, distributing the tensile load across multiple locations rather than concentrating it at a single suture line, thereby reducing tissue cutting and dehiscence risk
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional suture plane to a three-dimensional distributed anchoring system with elements positioned at different depths and locations within the abdominal wall layers, creating a volumetric distribution of tension that reduces localized stress on any single tissue plane
2Reliability
If mesh reinforcement is used to prevent hernia recurrence, then closure strength is improved, but permanent foreign materials and associated complications are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs bioabsorbable anchoring elements and tensioning components that provide the necessary mechanical support during the critical healing period and then gradually degrade and are absorbed by the body, eliminating the need for permanent foreign materials while maintaining hernia prevention reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses materials with time-dependent mechanical properties that provide high strength initially for hernia prevention and then progressively degrade as tissue healing occurs, transitioning from an implant-supported closure to a tissue-supported closure over time
3Ease of operation
If devices with segments running deep to the abdominal wall are used for approximation, then edge approximation is achieved, but underlying viscera are threatened
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system divides the approximation function into multiple discrete anchoring points distributed across the abdominal wall, allowing effective edge approximation while keeping each individual anchor element localized and away from deep visceral structures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces subcutaneous anchoring elements as intermediary structures that provide mechanical approximation of the abdominal wall edges without requiring device components to penetrate or run deep into the abdominal cavity where viscera are located, thus mediating between the need for approximation and the need to protect viscera
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
This approach reduces the risk of hernia formation by evenly distributing tension across a wide area, promoting optimal healing without the need for permanent foreign materials, and minimizing post-operative pain.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic component may be removed upon achievement of tissue edge apposition. In one embodiment, the magnetic component comprises a magnetically attractive element
Data Source
AI summary
A combined magnetic and bioabsorbable device for ventral hernia closure and/or tension distribution for maintenance of tissue apposition for healing, while avoiding a long-term footprint of foreign material and precluding materials spanning the interior layer of the abdominal closure where risk to visceral structures exists.