Composite Implant Mesh Foam Barrier for Grip Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current composite implants with self-fixating meshes face challenges in controlling the activation and deactivation of grip members during surgical procedures, as existing solutions for limiting self-gripping effects are either non-homogeneous or require lengthy dissolution times, making it difficult for surgeons to precisely fix and reposition the mesh at desired locations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a composite implant design featuring a mesh with grip members covered by a compressible foam that transitions from an initial thicker configuration to a thinner configuration, allowing controlled activation and deactivation of grip members, enabling surgeons to determine which portions of the mesh to activate or inactivate post-manufacturing, independent of the foam's dissolution rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a film coating is applied to grips to limit self-gripping, then the mesh can be rolled without entanglement, but the coating dissolution time is unpredictable and homogeneous control is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a continuous flexible barrier layer made of bioabsorbable material to cover the entire backside of the mesh. This thin film prevents grip members from penetrating into overlapping mesh portions during rolling, solving the entanglement problem while providing uniform coverage that eliminates the homogeneity issues associated with discrete grip coatings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the barrier function by placing it specifically on the backside of the mesh rather than coating individual grips. This segmentation allows the barrier layer to function independently as a continuous protective layer during rolling, while the grip members remain uncovered and functional for tissue attachment.
2Ease of operation
If a continuous bioabsorbable layer is applied to the backside of the mesh to prevent self-gripping, then rolling is facilitated, but the layer does not affect gripping to surrounding tissues during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the barrier layer selectively to the backside of the mesh only, leaving the front side with grip members uncovered. This local application ensures that the barrier function is provided where needed (preventing self-gripping during rolling) while the grip members remain fully functional for tissue attachment during insertion.
3Ease of operation
If grips are covered with a dissolvable matrix layer to increase time before fixation, then handling is improved, but the surgeon cannot determine which locations to affix first post-manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the barrier layer can be selectively removed from different regions of the mesh based on surgical needs. This allows the surgeon to control which grip members become active at which locations and times, providing adaptability while the intact barrier layer facilitates easy handling during insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows for selective removal (extraction) of the barrier layer from specific regions of the mesh. This selective extraction enables the surgeon to activate grips only where and when needed, providing control over fixation sequence while maintaining the barrier's protective function in areas where it remains intact.
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 design allows for precise control over the gripping ability of the composite implant, facilitating easier handling and positioning during surgery, reducing entanglements, and ensuring secure attachment to tissues without premature gripping, thereby enhancing surgical precision and efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
the compressible foam configured to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration upon compression
Implementation Method 2
this layer is resorbed from a few hours to a few months under physiological conditions
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to composite implants (10) configured for the repair or treatment of soft tissue, the composite implants including a mesh (20) having one or more grip members (25) and a compressible foam (30) applied thereto.