Segmented Tissue Anchoring Device with Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anchoring devices for securing the stomach wall to the abdominal wall, such as T-bar fasteners, are not easily removable and can lead to infection and discomfort due to sharp edges, requiring invasive procedures and limiting mobility during the healing process.
Innovation Solution
A device with individual rigid anchor segments that can be manipulated from a relaxed to a rigid state using an actuator, allowing for secure tissue anchoring without sharp edges and made from resorbable materials for easy removal, featuring cylindrical segments with inter-engaging structures for alignment and tensioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid T-bar fasteners are used for anchoring tissue layers, then secure anchoring is achieved, but the device cannot be easily removed and may cause infection or discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is divided into multiple segments (first segment, second segment, third segment) that can move relative to each other. The segments are connected through a lumen allowing them to transition between compressed and expanded states, enabling both secure anchoring when expanded and easy removal when compressed back into the introducer.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic structure where segments can move relative to each other. The segments are biased to expand outward by elastic memory or spring mechanisms, but can be compressed back into the introducer for removal, providing both strong anchoring and ease of removal.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid retention members with sharp edges are used, then anchoring stability is improved, but patient comfort deteriorates and infection risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the anchor have different properties: the segments have smooth outer surfaces for tissue comfort, while the inner structure provides mechanical stability. The segments may include features like flutes or ridges that provide anchoring without sharp edges, and the material choice ensures biocompatibility and resistance to infection.
3Reliability
If traction force is applied for extended period to achieve tissue fusion, then secure attachment is achieved, but patient mobility is reduced leading to complications
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is pre-loaded with elastic memory or spring mechanisms that automatically apply the necessary traction force as soon as the anchor is deployed and segments expand. This eliminates the need for external traction devices and allows patients to move freely while the anchor maintains the required force for tissue fusion.
4Strength
If non-resorbable materials are used for the anchor, then device strength is maintained, but removal requires invasive procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is segmented into multiple parts that can move relative to each other through a lumen. This segmentation allows the entire anchor to be compressed back into the introducer for removal, transforming a permanently implanted device into a removable one while maintaining strength when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor transitions from a static strong structure to a dynamic structure that can change its configuration. When deployed, segments expand to provide strong anchoring; when removal is needed, segments can be compressed back into the introducer, allowing non-invasive removal while maintaining device strength during the anchoring period.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes an apparatus and method of use for anchoring two or more body tissue layers to one another. The apparatus includes a plurality of individual anchor segments (28) that are placeable within a body cavity. The segments may assume a first relaxed state wherein the segments are movable relative to each other and alignable along an initial longitudinal axis (20) for initial placement of the apparatus through the body tissue layers. Once placed within the body cavity, the anchor segments are manipulated into a second rigid state with an actuator wherein the.segments assume a rigid configuration at a transverse angle relative to the initial longitudinal axis.