Narrow PAP Broom-Brush for Single-Step Cervical Sampling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current cervical cancer screening procedures cause patient discomfort and anxiety due to the use of larger speculums and two-step collection methods, which are inefficient in sampling both the endocervical region and anterior portion of the cervix.
Innovation Solution
A novel cytological collection tool combining a narrower broom and nylon brush design allows for simultaneous sampling of cells from both the endocervical region and anterior portion of the cervix in a single step, using a handle with plastic tubules and conical soft nylon fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a larger speculum is used to accommodate current large specimen samplers, then complete cell sampling is achieved, but patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collection tool is divided into two distinct components: a broom portion with multiple bristles for sampling the anterior cervix, and a brush portion with dense bristles for sampling the endocervical region. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific sampling location, enabling complete cell collection with a smaller overall tool diameter that fits comfortably in a smaller speculum.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from using a single large-diameter sampler to a multi-component structure where the broom and brush portions are arranged radially around a central axis. This dimensional reorganization allows the sampling surfaces to extend outward from the center rather than requiring a large overall diameter, enabling complete sampling coverage within a compact footprint that accommodates smaller speculums.
2Reliability
If a two-step collection method is used to sample both anterior cervix and endocervical region, then sampling completeness is improved, but procedure time and patient discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the previously separate broom and brush collection tools into a single integrated device. The broom portion with its multiple bristles targets the anterior cervix while the brush portion with its dense bristles targets the endocervical region, both accessible simultaneously during one insertion. This combination eliminates the need for sequential two-step procedures, reducing overall procedure time and minimizing repeated patient discomfort from multiple insertions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single collection tool performs multiple sampling functions simultaneously: the broom portion collects cells from the anterior cervix surface while the brush portion collects cells from the endocervical region. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate specialized tools for each sampling location, enabling comprehensive cell collection in a single procedural step.
3Ease of operation
If a single-step collection tool is used to reduce procedure time, then patient comfort is improved, but sampling effectiveness for endocervical cells decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by giving different portions of the tool different structural characteristics optimized for their specific sampling locations. The brush portion has dense, closely-spaced bristles specifically designed to effectively sample the confined endocervical region, while the broom portion has more widely-spaced bristles suited for the broader anterior cervix surface. This localized optimization ensures effective endocervical sampling within a single comfortable insertion.
4Reliability
If current large specimen samplers are used, then adequate cell coverage is achieved, but the need for medium-sized speculums increases patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The broom and brush portions are arranged concentrically around a central axis, with their bristles extending radially outward. This nested configuration allows both sampling components to be contained within a smaller overall diameter, enabling the tool to fit through a smaller speculum while still providing adequate cell coverage from both the anterior cervix and endocervical region.
Data Source
AI summary
A cytological collection tool comprising a handle attached at its distal end to a base that includes a head from which broom-like tubules protrude and are arranged to form an elongated central portion and from which an arrangement of brush-like fibers protrude from the central portion.