Pivot-Based Medical Holding System for Loop Suturing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing graft preparation stations restrict the use of loop-based suturing methods due to a continuous line configuration, requiring complex and labor-intensive processes that are prone to errors and fatigue, especially in surgeries involving tendon or ligament repairs.

Innovation Solution

A medical holding system with a holder and support device that includes a grasper and coupler, allowing the implantable element to be suspended and enabling a pass-through force to disengage the coupler, forming a passageway for a medical looped cord, facilitating loop-based suturing methods without the need for multiple operators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a continuous line configuration is used in graft preparation stations, then the structure is simple and stable, but it prevents the use of loop-based suturing methods and requires complex labor-intensive processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with loop-based suturing methodsVSAvoidcomplexity of suturing process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is divided into separate functional components: a support structure for suspending the graft, a coupler mechanism for controlled engagement/disengagement, and a grasper for holding the implantable element. This segmentation allows the cord to pass through the coupler while maintaining graft suspension, enabling loop-based suturing without requiring complex multi-operator processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupler acts as an intermediary mechanism between the support structure and the implantable element. It provides a controlled passage point that allows the cord to pass through while maintaining the suspension of the graft. This intermediary structure resolves the contradiction by enabling cord passage (necessary for loop-based suturing) while maintaining system simplicity and stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If a continuous line configuration is used, then the setup is simple, but it requires multiple operators and is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of suturing processVSAvoidnumber of operators required

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The grasper is designed to be self-retaining on the implantable element, and the coupler automatically engages with the support device when the implantable element is suspended. This self-service design eliminates the need for one operator to hold the clamp while another performs suturing, allowing a single operator to efficiently perform the entire loop-based suturing process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The implantable element is pre-suspended from the support device before the suturing process begins. This preliminary action of suspending the element and engaging the coupler beforehand allows the surgeon to immediately begin loop-based suturing without requiring assistant intervention to hold or position components during the procedure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11464620B2Pivot-based medical holding system and method

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 UNITED HEALTH SERVICES HOSPITALS INC

AI summary

A medical holding system and method are disclosed herein. The medical holding system, in an embodiment, includes a retainer and a pivot device having a plurality of arms. Each of the arms is configured to be engaged with the retainer. The medical holding system also includes a grasper configured to be coupled to the pivot device. The grasper is configured to grasp a portion of an implantable element, and the pivot device is configured to be pivoted relative to the retainer.