Ossicular Prosthesis Applicator for Precise Middle Ear Implantation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current auditory ossicle prostheses are difficult to handle and implant due to their small size, requiring complex and non-optimal tools, leading to potential damage during surgical insertion and suboptimal placement, and necessitate extensive sterilization and multiple applicators for different sizes.
Innovation Solution
An elongated applicator with a force-fitting or breakable engagement part is used to securely transport and implant the prosthesis, allowing for standardized handling and immediate use without additional aids, with options for material bridges, shape-memory materials, and ergonomic designs to facilitate precise placement and easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surgical instruments are used to handle the prosthesis, then the prosthesis can be inserted, but the risk of damage increases and placement precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized applicator as an intermediary tool between the surgeon's hand and the fragile prosthesis. The applicator features a holding element that securely grasps the prosthesis during transport and insertion, eliminating direct handling with traditional instruments. This mediator protects the prosthesis from damage while enabling precise placement in the middle ear.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator is designed as a segmented system with distinct functional zones: a holding element for secure grasping, a shaft for transport, and a release mechanism for controlled delivery. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, improving both handling ease and prosthesis protection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple applicators are provided for different prosthesis sizes, then all size options are covered, but device complexity and sterilization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal applicator that can accommodate multiple prosthesis sizes through an adjustable holding element. The holding element can be configured to securely grasp different dimensions of various prosthesis types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized applicators. This multi-functional design reduces device complexity while maintaining adaptability across all prosthesis size options.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt its configuration during use. The holding element can be adjusted or deformed to match different prosthesis geometries, enabling a single applicator to serve multiple size requirements rather than requiring fixed, size-specific tools.
3Productivity
If the prosthesis is handled without magnification, then the operation speed increases, but placement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator serves as a mediator that bridges the gap between macroscopic surgeon control and microscopic surgical precision. The applicator's shaft provides a comfortable grip for the surgeon, while its distal end delivers the prosthesis with micrometer-level precision to the middle ear target site, enabling both speed and accuracy without requiring the surgeon to work directly at magnification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical control system (surgeon's fingers manipulating tiny prosthesis) with an extended mechanical system (applicator with long shaft and precision tip). This substitution allows the surgeon to operate from a comfortable distance while the applicator's mechanics provide the necessary precision for micrometer-level placement accuracy.
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
This solution simplifies the handling and implantation process, reducing the risk of damage and the need for multiple applicators, while ensuring precise placement and minimizing post-operative complications by using a tailored, cost-effective, and sterilization-free method.
Implementation Method 1
an engagement part which is initially attached to the ossicular prosthesis in a force-fitting, form-fitting manner or via a material bridge that can be broken off or sheared off
Implementation Method 2
In a further class of embodiments of the auditory ossicle prosthesis according to the invention, which also avoid the problem of possibly pointed or sharp-edged bridge residues, the engagement part of the applicator is surrounded by a receiving part
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a
AI summary
The device has a passive ossicular prosthesis (10) and an elongate applicator (14) designed as a unit that is removable from a sterile package. An engagement part (16) is fastened at the prosthesis by a breakable or shearable material bridge in a force-fit and form-fit manner. The engagement part is separated from the prosthesis and removed from the middle ear or the ear canal together with the applicator after insertion of the prosthesis into the middle ear or ear canal. Fastening elements (11, 12) e.g. clips, are provided at respective ends of the prosthesis. The prosthesis is made of carbon fibers or ceramic material.