Segmented Hernia Patch Frame Using Bio-absorbable Interference Fit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hernia repair patches face challenges in delivery through small trocars during endoscopic procedures and may experience stress-induced frame breakage due to body motion and tissue integration, leading to potential fatigue fractures.
Innovation Solution
A hernia repair prosthesis with a segmented frame comprising helical, hollow tubular metal strands and solid metal strands, where bio-absorbable polymer is used to create an interference fit between the segments, allowing for telescopic movement post-tissue ingrowth to alleviate stress points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid wire frame is used for the hernia repair patch, then structural strength is improved, but the device becomes difficult to deliver through a small diameter trocar
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple segments that can be collapsed into a compact configuration for delivery through the trocar, then expanded to form a rigid structure after implantation. This segmentation allows the frame to transition between flexible (for delivery) and rigid (for structural support) states.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to change its mechanical properties from flexible during delivery to rigid after deployment. This dynamic transformation enables the frame to be easily delivered through the trocar while maintaining sufficient structural strength for hernia repair.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed rigid frame structure is used, then structural stability is improved, but stress-induced fractures occur due to body motion and tissue integration
Solution Approach 1:
The frame incorporates dynamic segments that can move relative to each other, allowing the structure to adapt to body motion and tissue integration stresses. This dynamic capability prevents stress concentration that would lead to fatigue fractures while maintaining overall structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame's mechanical parameters are changed over time through the degradation of bio-absorbable material, transitioning from a rigid fixed structure to a more flexible configuration. This parameter change allows the frame to accommodate physiological movements without fracturing.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a non-absorbable material is used for the frame, then long-term structural integrity is improved, but stress concentration leads to fatigue failure
Solution Approach 1:
The frame utilizes materials and structures that change their mechanical parameters over time. The bio-absorbable segments degrade progressively, transferring loads to the permanent frame components, thereby preventing stress concentration and fatigue failure while maintaining long-term structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame employs periodic degradation of bio-absorbable materials, where segments progressively break down over time. This periodic change in structural composition allows stress redistribution, preventing fatigue accumulation in any single component.
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 solution enables easier delivery and reduces the risk of frame breakage by allowing relative movement of frame segments post-stabilization, ensuring the hernia repair patch remains effective without adverse outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
degradation of the polymer by body fluids
Data Source
AI summary
A hernia repair prosthesis comprises a segmented frame forming a closed loop where a first segment comprises a helical hollow tube and a second segment comprises a solid strand. Both segments are preferably a metal exhibiting shape memory properties and the two segments are assembled with end portions of the second segment inserted into the lumen at opposed end portions of the first segment with a clearance fit. At manufacture, a covering layer of a bio-absorbable polymer on the end portions of the second strand is sufficiently sized to create a temporary interference fit between the two segments to inhibit relative movement between them. The ability of the intercoupled segment to move relative to one another is restored upon degradation of the polymer due to exposure to body fluids following implantation of the prostheses. A prosthetic fabric is attached to the segmented frame.