Reversible Vas Deferens Occlusion Membrane for Non-Invasive Contraception
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing male contraceptives face challenges such as high failure rates, severe side effects, and low user acceptance, and existing occlusion methods for the vas deferens are invasive and lack reversibility.
Innovation Solution
A reversible occlusion device with a docking unit and a restricting element that can transition between closed and open positions, allowing selective occlusion and re-opening of body lumens, such as the vas deferens, using a flexible or collapsible scaffold and a tearable membrane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If injectable hydrogels or polymer plugs are used to occlude the vas deferens, then contraception efficacy is achieved, but the procedure becomes invasive and irreversible
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion device incorporates a restricting element that can dynamically transition between closed (occluding) and open (non-occluding) positions. The restricting element is configured to move relative to the docking unit, allowing the device to switch between contraceptive and non-contraceptive states, thereby providing reversibility while maintaining efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its functional state by altering the position parameter of the restricting element. When the restricting element is in the closed position, it blocks the lumen; when moved to the open position, it allows passage. This parameter change enables reversible occlusion without invasive procedures.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing occlusion devices are introduced using a syringe under local anesthetic, then the procedure is simplified, but tissue damage and patient discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion device is designed with a nested structure where the restricting element is contained within or integrated with the docking unit. This nested configuration allows the device to be introduced through a delivery system in a compressed state and then deployed in situ, reducing the need for invasive insertion methods and minimizing tissue damage.
3Reliability
If chemical-based contraceptives are used, then contraception is achieved, but severe side effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces chemical-based contraceptive mechanisms with a mechanical occlusion system. The restricting element physically blocks the lumen to prevent sperm passage, eliminating the need for chemical agents and their associated severe side effects while maintaining reliable contraception.
4Reliability
If hormonal contraceptives are used, then contraception is achieved, but user acceptance decreases due to side effects and stigma
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical occlusion device replaces hormonal contraceptives with a purely mechanical system that physically blocks sperm transport. This eliminates hormone-related side effects such as mood swings, weight gain, and libido alterations, thereby improving user acceptance and reducing stigma associated with hormonal treatments.
Data Source
AI summary
A reversible occlusion device configured for being introduced inside a lumen to selectively occlude it, the reversible occlusion device includes a docking unit configured for being docked in the lumen; the docking unit has an upstream end and a downstream end associated with an upstream portion and a downstream portion of the lumen respectively, and an inner volume extending between the ends; the reversible occlusion device further includes at least one restricting element configured for transitioning between a first, closed position, in which it obstructs passage of material across the volume, and a second, open position, in which it allows passage of material across the volume; in both the closed position and the open position, a peripheral portion of the restricting element is in contact with the docking unit; said restricting element is a membrane with a peripheral portion thicker than its central portion.