Spinal Injection Trainer with Self-Healing Gel Matrix
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal training models lack realistic tactile feedback, are not reusable, and do not provide adequate image contrast for fluoroscopic imaging, making them inadequate for simulating human tissue and bone structure effectively.
Innovation Solution
A spinal model with a complete vertebral column embedded in a crystal clear synthetic ballistic gel matrix that provides tactile feedback similar to human tissue, is reusable, and produces a fluoroscopic image representative of natural bone, along with embedded radiopaque markers and a self-healing thermoplastic elastomer matrix that allows needle tracks to be visible and then fused closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If natural gelatin is used as the matrix material, then realistic tactile feedback is provided, but the model cannot be reused and requires refrigeration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from natural gelatin to synthetic gel, which maintains the tactile properties (viscoelasticity) of natural tissue but eliminates the degradation and bacterial contamination issues. This allows the model to be reused multiple times without refrigeration while preserving realistic tactile feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite structure combining synthetic gel matrix with radiopaque materials (barium sulfate, titanium dioxide) embedded within it. This composite approach provides both the tactile realism of gelatin-like material and the radiopacity needed for fluoroscopic imaging, while the synthetic gel component enables reusability.
2Reliability
If radiopaque plastic is used for vertebrae, then fluoroscopic imaging is enabled, but the image contrast is inadequate compared to natural bone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the radiopaque material composition by incorporating barium sulfate and titanium dioxide in specific concentrations (0.5-5% by weight). These materials provide sufficient radiopacity for fluoroscopic imaging while maintaining image contrast that more closely resembles natural bone compared to standard radiopaque plastics.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertebrae are constructed as composite structures combining radiopaque materials with a matrix that simulates bone density and texture. This composite approach enables both fluoroscopic visibility and realistic image contrast representation of natural bone structure.
3Loss of information
If the gel matrix is made transparent, then needle path observation is enabled, but bacterial contamination and decay occur with natural gelatin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the gel matrix material from natural gelatin to a synthetic gel formulation that is inherently resistant to bacterial contamination and degradation. This synthetic gel maintains optical transparency for needle path observation while eliminating the harmful factors associated with natural gelatin.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a durable, reusable model that eliminates the need for disposal after single use. The synthetic gel matrix resists degradation and bacterial contamination, allowing multiple uses without refrigeration or disposal, replacing the disposable nature of natural gelatin models.
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 model offers realistic training for spinal injection techniques with improved tactile feedback, reusability, and accurate image representation, enhancing the training experience and preventing poor needle placement by providing a durable and hygienic solution.
Implementation Method 1
The visible needle tracks are fused closed upon heating the thermoplastic elastomer matrix such that the needle tracks are no longer visible
Implementation Method 2
The skeletal structure is selected to produce a fluoroscopic image representative of human bone corresponding to the skeletal structure
Implementation Method 3
The visibly clear thermoplastic elastomer matrix provides tactile feedback substantially similar to human tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A model for anatomical training includes a clear thermoplastic elastomer matrix formed with at least one contoured surface that simulates at least a portion of a human body. The visibly clear thermoplastic elastomer matrix provides visible needle tracks upon needle penetration that may be fused closed upon heating the thermoplastic elastomer matrix. The model includes at least a portion of a vertebral column with a synthetic spinal sheath passing through a portion of the vertebral column, the synthetic spinal sheath providing tactile feedback upon needle penetration that simulates the tactile feedback of a needle penetrating a natural human spinal sheath.