Non-Planar Vaginal Device for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for pelvic organ prolapse, such as surgical methods and non-surgical vaginal devices, are often invasive, uncomfortable, and ineffective, with existing devices either blocking urine flow or being too large and intrusive, leading to low patient satisfaction and compliance.
Innovation Solution
A non-planar, flexible vaginal device with a soft external layer and anchoring body, designed to be inserted and removed easily, which expands to provide support without compressing the urethra, allowing for comfortable use and effective prolapse treatment while maintaining urinary function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing vaginal devices are used to treat pelvic organ prolapse, then support for pelvic organs is provided, but the devices block urine flow or are too large and intrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a two-dimensional planar structure to a three-dimensional non-planar configuration upon insertion. The device is inserted in a collapsed state and then expands to assume a predefined three-dimensional shape that provides effective prolapse support while creating space that prevents urethral compression, thereby maintaining urinary function.
Solution Approach 2:
The device exhibits dynamic behavior by transitioning from a flexible, collapsible insertion state to a rigid, supportive operational state. This dynamic transformation allows the device to be easily inserted in a low-profile configuration and then automatically assume its functional three-dimensional shape to provide prolapse support without blocking urine flow.
2Reliability
If vaginal devices are made larger to provide better prolapse support, then support effectiveness improves, but insertion and removal become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a nested configuration where the three-dimensional supportive structure is collapsed into a compact, low-profile form that can be easily inserted through the vaginal opening. Upon insertion, the device expands from its nested insertion state to its full three-dimensional operational state, providing effective prolapse support without insertion difficulties.
3Reliability
If vaginal devices apply pressure to support pelvic organs, then prolapse treatment effectiveness improves, but the risk of tissue necrosis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a soft external layer that covers the pressure-applying surfaces. This flexible protective layer distributes pressure more evenly across the vaginal walls, reducing peak pressure points that could cause tissue necrosis, while still maintaining effective prolapse support through the device's three-dimensional structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for treating pelvic organ prolapse, comprising a main body adapted to provide pelvic organ support when inserted into a vagina; and, an applicator for inserting the main body into a vagina.