Reciprocating Pusher for Segmental Occlusive Implant Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for occluding fallopian tubes, such as transcervical placement of occlusive implants, face challenges due to the small diameter and scalloped internal surface of the fallopian tubes, making complete occlusion difficult and potentially leading to complications.
Innovation Solution
The development of a delivery system comprising an outer and inner sheath with a reciprocating pusher member, where the inner sheath retracts proximally while the pusher member reciprocates to segmentally expel the occlusive implant from the distal end, ensuring effective placement within the fallopian tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple delivery device is used for transcervical insertion, then the procedure is easier and less invasive, but the implant cannot be completely and precisely occluded in the small, scalloped fallopian tube lumen
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device is divided into multiple functional segments: an outer sheath for transcervical access, an inner sheath for implant containment, and a reciprocating pusher member for incremental deployment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together to achieve complete occlusion in the challenging fallopian tube anatomy
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where the inner sheath is received within the outer sheath, and the pusher member is received within the inner sheath. This nested configuration allows the device to maintain a compact profile for easy transcervical insertion while providing the mechanical complexity needed for precise implant deployment in the small, scalloped fallopian tube lumen
2Manufacturing precision
If the inner sheath retracts proximally while the pusher member reciprocates, then the implant is segmentally expelled for complete occlusion, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device incorporates dynamic motion mechanisms where the pusher member reciprocates (moves back and forth) while the inner sheath retracts proximally. This dynamic coordination allows the implant to be segmentally expelled in a controlled manner, ensuring complete occlusion of the fallopian tube while the sheaths provide structural support and guidance
Solution Approach 2:
The reciprocating motion of the pusher member creates periodic action that incrementally advances the implant through the delivery system. This periodic pushing motion, combined with the proximal retraction of the inner sheath, ensures complete and controlled expulsion of the implant material to achieve thorough occlusion of the small, scalloped fallopian tube lumen
Data Source
AI summary
The various embodiments simplify the delivery of an occlusive implant to a hollow anatomical structure, such as a fallopian tube. For example, the delivery devices don't need to be retracted manually to deploy the implant. When the devices are activated, stored energy or a powered drive member induces movement of the various components. The operator need only position the distal ends of the devices at the treatment site and then commence deployment by, for example, flipping a switch or changing the position of an activation button. The present embodiments thus increase the efficacy of occlusion procedures by reducing the likelihood of operator error.