Segmented Esophageal Replacement Device with Stent Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for replacing a circumferential segment of the esophagus, such as esophagectomy or using tubular replacements, often result in limited success due to issues like esophageal stenosis, leakage, stricture, and tissue regrowth failure.
Innovation Solution
An esophageal replacement device comprising a first layer with stent ring structures for anchoring and patency, and a second layer for cellular in-growth, which can be implanted to bridge stump ends of the esophagus, avoiding complications like stenosis and allowing for eventual removal of non-biological components after sufficient tissue regeneration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional esophagectomy or tubular replacement methods are used, then the esophageal gap can be closed, but esophageal stenosis and stricture occur
Solution Approach 1:
The esophageal replacement device is divided into multiple segments: a first layer with stent ring structures for anchoring and maintaining patency, and a second layer for cellular in-growth. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function independently, preventing stenosis while enabling successful replacement
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the device have different structural properties - the distal and proximal end regions include stent ring structures for anchoring and patency maintenance, while the central region lacks stent rings to allow natural tissue regeneration. This local differentiation addresses both the need for structural support and the need to prevent stenosis in different areas
2Strength
If non-biological materials are used in the replacement device, then structural support and patency are maintained, but the materials need to be removed after healing
Solution Approach 1:
The non-biological first layer with stent ring structures is designed to be temporarily implanted to provide structural support during healing, then extracted (removed) after sufficient tissue regeneration occurs. This allows the device to fulfill its support function without permanently remaining in the patient
Solution Approach 2:
The device acts as an intermediary structure that temporarily bridges the esophageal gap during the healing process, then is removed once the native tissue has regenerated sufficiently to maintain the esophageal passage independently
3Reliability
If the first layer extends past the second layer at both ends, then anchoring and patency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into two distinct layers with different functions and configurations. The first layer extends beyond the second layer at both ends to provide anchoring in the esophageal stump, while the second layer is positioned more centrally. This segmentation simplifies the overall design by assigning specific functions to specific layers rather than creating a single complex structure
Data Source
AI summary
This document provides methods and materials that can be used to replace a circumferential segment of an esophagus. For example, methods and materials that can be used to provide a tubular connection from one stump end of an esophagus to another stump end of the esophagus are provided.