Self-suturing Catheter Anchor with Rotatable Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional catheter securement devices obstruct the catheter insertion site, making it difficult to identify infections or complications, and are uncomfortable due to their rigid or high-profile design, while also requiring manual suturing which can be time-consuming and prone to loosening.
Innovation Solution
A self-suturing anchor device with a rotatable ring and ratchet mechanism that automatically secures the catheter using suture threads, allowing for quick and efficient deployment and tightening without manual intervention, and includes a bearing member for smooth rotation and a removable lid for site protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional anchor devices are used to secure the catheter, then the catheter is secured in position, but the insertion site is obstructed and cannot be easily monitored or cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor device is segmented into separate functional components: a base portion that secures to the skin, a catheter receiving portion that holds the catheter, and a cover portion that can be removed. This segmentation allows the securement function to be maintained while the cover can be removed to access the insertion site for monitoring and cleaning.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover portion is designed to be removable from the base portion, extracting the protective/coveraging function as a separate, detachable element. This allows the insertion site to be accessed for monitoring and cleaning while the main securement structure remains in place.
2Reliability
If rigid or high-profile securement members are used, then the catheter is securely anchored, but patient comfort is reduced due to pressure discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor device utilizes a flexible, low-profile design with a base portion that can conform to the patient's skin surface. The securement members are designed to be flexible rather than rigid, reducing pressure points and discomfort while maintaining securement effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates flexible elements that can dynamically adapt to patient movement and body contours, maintaining securement while distributing pressure evenly to minimize discomfort. The flexible design allows the device to move with the patient rather than creating fixed pressure points.
3Reliability
If manual suturing is used to secure the catheter, then the catheter can be anchored, but the process is time-consuming and prone to loosening
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor device is designed as a self-securing mechanism where the catheter is anchored through the device structure itself rather than requiring separate manual suturing. The device integrates the securement function into its design, allowing rapid attachment without time-consuming manual procedures while maintaining reliable anchoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor device is pre-configured with securement mechanisms and structural elements that enable immediate catheter anchoring upon application. The securement functionality is built into the device structure beforehand, eliminating the need for additional manual suturing steps during the procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-suturing anchor device includes rotatable ring adapted to automatically deploy sutures to secure a catheter. The rotatable ring is utilized in connection with a ratchet mechanism which allows movement of the rotatable ring in a first direction while preventing movement of the rotatable ring in the opposite direction. The rotatable ring is also utilized in connection with a bearing member to facilitate smooth and efficient rotation of the rotatable ring. An extension saddle is utilized to provide a desired amount of displacement between suture securement points to minimize pivotal movement of the catheter. The rotatable ring is wider than its height to minimize kinking of the catheter tube and to relieve pressure when pressed between the patient and a support surface. In another embodiment, a plurality of scallops or other gripping members are utilized to facilitate easy gripping and rotation of the rotatable ring.