Two-Part Mesh Tack Delivery for Jam-Resistant Hernia Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mesh tacking devices for hernia repair are prone to jamming, require excessive use of absorbable tacks, and often deploy too many or too few tacks, leading to inefficiencies and material waste.
Innovation Solution
A two-part tack construction system where one part becomes a barb in the abdominal wall and the other secures the mesh, reducing the need for multiple tacks and minimizing jamming, using bio-absorbable materials like PLGA for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional single-part tacks are used for mesh fixation, then the tacking process can be completed with conventional devices, but the devices are prone to jamming and require excessive use of absorbable tacks
Solution Approach 1:
The tack is divided into two separate parts: a distal barb portion that penetrates the abdominal wall and a proximal abutment portion that remains outside. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally - the barb provides secure anchoring in tissue while the abutment presses against the mesh, reducing the need for excessive tacks and minimizing material waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery device acts as an intermediary that holds and positions both parts of the tack during insertion. The device includes a tip that receives the distal barb portion and a body that engages the proximal abutment portion, coordinating their simultaneous deployment to ensure reliable fixation without jamming.
2Strength
If multiple tacks are deployed to ensure secure mesh fixation, then mesh security is improved, but the cost and material usage increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the tack into functional segments (barb for tissue penetration, abutment for mesh contact), each component is optimized for its specific role. This allows fewer tacks to achieve the same or better fixation security compared to traditional single-part tacks, reducing the quantity of material required.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-part construction changes the mechanical parameters of fixation by distributing forces differently - the barb provides anchoring strength while the abutment provides bearing surface contact with the mesh. This parameter change increases fixation efficiency, allowing secure attachment with fewer tacks.
3Productivity
If conventional tacking devices are used, then the procedure can follow established protocols, but the devices often deploy too many or too few tacks leading to inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The two parts of the tack are pre-assembled on the delivery device tip before insertion, with the distal barb portion received by the tip and the proximal abutment portion engaged by the device body. This preliminary configuration ensures that when the device is actuated, both parts are deployed simultaneously and precisely, eliminating the inefficiency of deploying too many or too few tacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery device is designed with mechanical feedback mechanisms that provide tactile or visual cues to the operator during deployment, ensuring proper positioning and activation of the two-part tack. This feedback ensures consistent and efficient deployment, optimizing productivity and reducing time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixation device delivery system is described. The system includes a driver and a cooperating fixation element featuring a barb which becomes active upon deployment in the inner abdominal wall.