Modular GI Prostheses with Reversible Magnetic Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bariatric surgical procedures for obesity and diabetes treatment are invasive, with complications such as tissue necrosis and systemic infections due to stents with active fixation means, and lack flexibility for adjustments or removals.
Innovation Solution
A modular intra-luminal implant system with anchoring implants and reversible therapeutic implants that can be selectively added or removed, using expandable structures, magnetic elements, and mechanical attachments to mimic bariatric surgical procedures, allowing for customization and adjustments without tissue penetration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stents with active fixation means (barbs) are used to anchor the implant, then the implant can be securely fixed in place, but tissue necrosis and erosion occur leading to serious complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the harmful active fixation means (barbs) from the implant design. Instead of using penetrating fixation elements, the implant relies on passive anchoring through tissue ingrowth into the stent structure, eliminating the source of tissue necrosis and erosion while maintaining secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of tissue interaction into a beneficial passive fixation mechanism. Rather than using aggressive barbs that cause damage, the design allows tissue to naturally grow into and around the stent structure, creating a secure anchor without active penetration or necrosis.
2Device complexity
If a single-piece implant design is used, then the implant structure is simple, but the implant cannot be removed or adjusted after tissue in-growth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the implant into separate modular components: a permanent stent framework and a removable therapeutic element. This segmentation allows the therapeutic component to be independently removed or adjusted while leaving the anchoring stent in place, combining structural simplicity with clinical flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic implant system where the therapeutic component can be added or removed as needed. The modular design transitions from a static single-piece structure to a dynamic multi-component system that adapts to changing clinical requirements while maintaining a simple overall structure.
3Reliability
If invasive surgical procedures are used to treat obesity and diabetes, then effective metabolic modification can be achieved, but the procedures require long recovery periods and carry serious complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive mechanical surgical procedures with a minimally invasive endoscopic delivery system. The implant is delivered through the natural lumen of the GI tract using endoscopic techniques, eliminating the need for external incisions and reducing recovery time while maintaining effective metabolic modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the GI tract lumen as an intermediary pathway for implant delivery. Rather than cutting through tissue to access the target site, the implant is transported through the existing natural passage, minimizing tissue disruption and enabling same-day or next-day discharge.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If endoscopic delivery of implants is used, then minimally invasive procedure is achieved, but the implants offer limited flexibility and are not readily removable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the implant into a permanent anchoring stent and a removable therapeutic component. This segmentation enables the therapeutic element to be independently accessed, removed, or adjusted via endoscopic techniques, providing full flexibility while maintaining minimally invasive delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary anchoring features in the stent that are designed specifically to facilitate later removal of the therapeutic component. The anchoring structure is prepared in advance to allow easy detachment of the therapeutic element without requiring removal of the entire implant system.
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
The system provides flexible and minimally invasive therapy options for metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes, reducing complications and enabling long-term performance with minimal interference with normal physiological processes, while allowing for easy removal and adjustment of components.
Implementation Method 1
The docking functionality of the stent, ring or cuff, for example, could take the form of magnetic elements, hooks, mating mechanical elements or structures
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system for therapy within a gastrointestinal system. The system includes anchoring or attachment functionality embodied in a low-profile implant technology and removable therapy components, which can be reversibly attached to these low-profile implants to accomplish various therapies. This modular design allows the physician to tailor the therapy to the patient's needs. The modular system has the potential to create conduits for diversion and/or restriction of food and organ secretions and to facilitate the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and T2DM.