Medical Holding System for Loop-Based Suture Preparation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing graft preparation stations restrict the use of loop-based suturing methods due to a continuous line configuration, requiring complex and labor-intensive processes that are prone to errors and fatigue, especially in surgeries involving tendon or ligament repairs.

Innovation Solution

A medical holding system with a grasper and coupler that allows for the transition between engagement and disengagement conditions, creating a passageway for a medical looped cord to facilitate loop-based suturing methods, enabling a single user to perform the pass-through preparation method efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a continuous line configuration is used in graft preparation stations, then the structure is simple and stable, but it restricts the use of loop-based suturing methods and requires complex labor-intensive processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with loop-based suturing methodsVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous line configuration is segmented into separate components: a first line segment from the first post to the graft, and a second line segment from the second post to the graft. This segmentation allows the cord to pass through the graft and enables loop-based suturing methods while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static continuous line configuration to a dynamic segmented configuration where the cord can move and pass through the graft. The segmented design allows the cord to be threaded through the graft and tied in loops, providing adaptability for different suturing methods while keeping the overall structure simple.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a labor-intensive two-person process is used for loop-based suturing, then the suturing can be performed, but it increases the risk of errors, fatigue, and injuries

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveerror reduction in graft preparationVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The segmented line configuration enables the system to serve itself by allowing the cord to pass through the graft and be manipulated by a single user. The graft preparation process becomes self-contained and can be performed independently by one person, reducing the need for assistant intervention and minimizing errors associated with coordinated two-person operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If a continuous line configuration is used, then the setup is simple, but it prevents periodic passage of looped rope over the graft end

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with loop-based suturing methodsVSAvoidease of cord passage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the continuous line into separate line segments that connect to different posts, the system creates space for the cord to pass through the graft. This segmentation allows the looped rope to be periodically passed over the graft end and through the cord, enabling loop-based suturing methods while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11458010B2Medical holding system and method for facilitating the preparation of implantable elements

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 UNITED HEALTH SERVICES HOSPITALS INC

AI summary

A medical holding system and method are disclosed herein. The medical holding system, in an embodiment, includes a holder and a support device. The holder includes a grasper configured to be coupled to an end of an implantable element. The holder also includes a coupler having a coupler portion. The support device includes a release interface. The holder and the support device are configured to keep the implantable element suspended above a support surface throughout engagement and disengagement conditions of the coupler portion.