Punctum Plug Insertion Device with Integrated Dilator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing punctum plug insertion instruments are complex and prone to accidental contamination or dislodgement due to the need for precise handling and quick manipulation, and they often require multiple steps for dilation and plug deployment, which can lead to discomfort for patients and inefficiency for practitioners.
Innovation Solution
A punctum dilating and plug inserting system featuring a handle with a stationary member and a single trigger coupled by a living hinge, a mounting wire for plug deployment, and a protective cover that serves as both a dilator and packaging, facilitating easy and safe insertion by allowing the plug to be released after dilation, with a leaf spring for consistent reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing punctum plug insertion instruments are used, then the plug can be inserted into the punctum, but the device complexity increases and the risk of accidental contamination or dislodgement occurs due to precise handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the dilating function and plug insertion function into a single integrated instrument. The protective cover serves dual purposes: it protects the plug during transport and storage, and acts as a dilator during the procedure. This eliminates the need for separate dilating instruments and reduces the number of manipulation steps, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion, a protective cover that can be removed, and a trigger mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while reducing the overall complexity of the system. The protective cover can be easily removed to expose the plug, and the trigger mechanism provides simple control for plug deployment.
2Productivity
If existing punctum plug insertion instruments are used, then the plug can be deployed, but multiple steps are required for dilation and plug deployment which reduces procedural efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions (protection, dilation, and plug insertion) into a single instrument. The protective cover serves as both the protective element and the dilating element, eliminating the need for separate instruments and steps. This integration streamlines the procedure into fewer steps, improving productivity while managing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cover is designed to serve multiple functions: it protects the plug during storage and transport, acts as a dilator when applied to the punctum, and can be removed to expose the plug for insertion. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate instruments and steps needed, thereby improving procedural efficiency.
3Loss of time
If quick manipulation is required to prevent punctum constriction, then the procedure time is reduced, but the risk of accidental contamination or dislodgement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover is pre-applied to the instrument, protecting the plug before the procedure begins. The cover is designed to be easily removed and applied to the punctum for dilation, and then removed again to expose the plug. This preliminary protection and structured sequence of actions reduces the time required while minimizing the risk of contamination through controlled, deliberate movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cover acts as an intermediary element between the plug and the external environment. It protects the plug during transport and storage, serves as a dilator during the procedure, and can be removed to expose the plug. This intermediary structure reduces the need for quick, risky manipulations while maintaining procedural efficiency.
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
The system simplifies the insertion process, reduces the risk of contamination, and allows for efficient and repeatable use, enhancing patient comfort and procedural efficiency by providing a stable and intuitive method for punctum plug deployment.
Implementation Method 1
a single trigger (18) integrally molded with the body (12) such that the body (12), the stationary member (16), and trigger (18) are a unitarily construct
Implementation Method 2
with a leaf spring for consistent reuse
Data Source
AI summary
A punctum dilating and plug inserting system includes an inserter and a protective cover defining a dilator. The inserter includes a longitudinal body, and a handle. The handle has a rounded stationary member and a trigger rotatably connected to the handle by a living hinge. A mounting wire extends through the body and is connected to the trigger. When the trigger is activated, the wire is retracted and a plug mounted on a distal end of the wire is released. A packaging is provided for receiving, protecting, and handling at least a portion of the entire inserter until ready for use. An end of the packaging includes a dilator dip for dilating the punctum in advance of receiving the punctum plug.