Negative-Pressure Wound Closure Structure for Faster Edge Approximation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing negative pressure wound therapy systems require lengthy closure times for large wounds and may not adequately reapproximate muscular and fascial tissue, leading to complications such as secondary infections and slowed healing due to downward compression of wound fillers.
Innovation Solution
The use of a wound closure device with a stabilizing structure that includes an inner segment surrounded by detachable segments, capable of collapsing under negative pressure to draw wound edges together, combined with a suction port for negative pressure application and a drape for sealing, facilitating wound closure and fluid removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing negative pressure treatment systems are used for large wounds, then wound closure is eventually achieved, but closure times are lengthy and healing rate is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The wound filler is divided into multiple segments that can be independently collapsed by the stabilizing structure. This segmentation allows for more efficient compression and faster reduction of wound volume, thereby accelerating the closure process without compromising healing quality
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing structure provides dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the system to adapt the compression force and distribution over time. This dynamic control optimizes the negative pressure application, enabling faster initial closure while maintaining appropriate pressure for continued healing
2Object-generated harmful factors
If foam or wound fillers are inserted into the wound and negative pressure is applied, then wound fluids are removed, but atmospheric pressure compresses the foam downward and outward against wound margins, slowing healing and preventing margin joining
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing structure acts as a counterbalancing element that resists the downward compression force exerted by atmospheric pressure on the wound filler. By providing an opposing upward force, it prevents the filler from being pushed against the wound margins, thereby maintaining proper filler position and promoting faster healing
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure distribution parameters within the wound by introducing the stabilizing structure. This structure creates a more balanced pressure field that prevents excessive compression at the wound margins while maintaining effective negative pressure for fluid removal, thus accelerating healing
3Object-generated harmful factors
If negative pressure is applied to the wound and filler, then wound fluids are removed, but the compression slows the joining of wound margins
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing structure creates localized support at critical areas, particularly at the wound margins and beneath the filler. This localized quality enhancement provides targeted counter-compression where needed most, allowing wound margins to join faster without compromising overall fluid removal effectiveness
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
Accelerates wound healing by reducing the need for repetitive filler replacement and minimizing tissue stress, promoting complete wound closure with controlled tissue approximation.
Implementation Method 1
a suction port configured to supply negative pressure to the wound
Implementation Method 2
simultaneously used with negative pressure to remove wound fluids
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A negative pressure wound closure system and methods for using such a system are described. Preferred embodiments of the invention facilitate closure of the wound by preferentially contracting to provide for movement of the tissue. Some embodiments may utilize a stabilizing structure with removable sections.