PC-PU-PS Infusion Cannulas for PFAS-Free Multi-Day Insulin Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cannulas made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and fluoroethylenepropylene (FEP) contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are harmful to human health and the environment, and there is a need for biocompatible, PFAS-free materials that can deliver insulin subcutaneously for multiple days without adverse effects.
Innovation Solution
The use of a polycarbonate polyurethane polysiloxane (PC-PU-PS) copolymer as a PFAS-free material for cannulas, which is configured for subcutaneous insertion and designed to minimize foreign body response and tissue trauma, ensuring reliable insulin delivery over an extended period.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If PTFE and FEP polymers are used for cannula manufacturing, then ease of manufacturing and biocompatibility are improved, but harmful PFAS substances accumulate in the body and environment causing adverse health effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition parameter by replacing PTFE/FEP polymers containing PFAS with a copolymer consisting of polycarbonate, polyurethane, and polysiloxane segments. This material substitution eliminates harmful PFAS substances while maintaining the required mechanical properties and manufacturability of the cannula
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite copolymer material structure combining polycarbonate, polyurethane, and polysiloxane segments. This composite approach achieves the desired balance of manufacturability, biocompatibility, and elimination of harmful PFAS substances that cannot be obtained with single polymers
2Ease of operation
If PTFE and FEP polymers are used for cannula manufacturing, then lubricious properties and ease of insertion are improved, but PFAS substances are difficult to break down and accumulate over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition parameter by substituting persistent PFAS-containing polymers with a copolymer designed to be biocompatible and less persistent. The new material maintains insertion ease through appropriate surface properties while addressing the persistence issue through its different chemical structure
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a PFAS-free material is used for cannula, then harmful accumulation is reduced, but the material must still maintain biocompatibility and reliable insulin delivery performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite copolymer material combining polycarbonate, polyurethane, and polysiloxane segments to achieve both PFAS-free composition and reliable insulin delivery performance. The synergistic combination of these polymer segments provides the necessary biocompatibility, flexibility, and structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different functional segments within the copolymer structure to address different requirements: polycarbonate for structural integrity, polyurethane for flexibility and biocompatibility, and polysiloxane for surface properties and insulin compatibility, achieving reliable performance through localized material functions
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to the use of a PFAS-free cannula in delivering a fluid medication, such as insulin, to a subcutaneous site. The cannula comprises polycarbonate polyurethane polysiloxane (PC-PU-PS), wherein the cannula is configured for subcutaneous insertion into the tissue of the individual in need thereof. The disclosure includes methods for administering insulin using the cannula and infusion devices comprising the cannula.