Surgical Mesh Applicator with Integrated Adhering Roll

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical mesh application methods require multiple steps and tools for placement and securing, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially in minimally invasive surgeries.

Innovation Solution

A semi-cylindrical applicator with a roller assembly and a surgical mesh roll having an adhering side with tissue-engaging barbs and a non-adhering side with adhesive strips, allowing for simultaneous application and securement of the mesh to tissue without the need for additional fasteners.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional surgical mesh application methods are used, then the mesh can be applied to tissue, but the process requires multiple steps and tools making it cumbersome and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication efficiencyVSAvoidprocedural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the surgical mesh and applicator into a single integrated assembly where the mesh is pre-positioned within the applicator body. This merging eliminates the need for separate steps to insert and position the mesh, allowing the surgeon to apply the complete assembly in a single motion, thereby improving productivity while reducing procedural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The surgical mesh is pre-positioned and prepared within the applicator before the surgical procedure. The mesh is already configured with adhering surfaces and non-adhering surfaces in the correct orientation, eliminating the need for real-time positioning and configuration during surgery, thus streamlining the application process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If multiple surgical fasteners are used to secure the mesh, then the mesh can be firmly attached to tissue, but the number of steps and tools required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The surgical mesh incorporates self-adhering properties with adhering surfaces that automatically bond to the tissue upon contact. The mesh design includes interlocking structures and adhesive elements that enable the mesh to secure itself to the tissue without requiring external fasteners or additional surgical tools, thereby maintaining attachment security while significantly simplifying the operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent removes the need for separate surgical fasteners (such as staples, clips, or tacks) by integrating the fastening function directly into the mesh structure itself. The mesh contains built-in adhering elements that perform the fastening function, eliminating the need for additional tools and steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If a surgical fastener applier is inserted to affix the mesh, then the mesh can be secured to tissue, but the number of instruments and procedural steps increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemesh fixationVSAvoidnumber of instruments
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the mesh and applicator into a single integrated instrument assembly. The applicator body is designed to contain and position the mesh, and the entire assembly is inserted through a single incision site, eliminating the need for separate insertion of the mesh and separate insertion of a fastener applier, thus reducing the number of instruments while maintaining fixation reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs multiple functions: it serves as the delivery vehicle for the mesh, provides positioning guidance, and facilitates the attachment process. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized instruments, reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Facilitates a streamlined process for applying and securing surgical mesh to tissue, reducing procedural complexity and enhancing the efficiency of tissue repair in both open and minimally invasive surgeries.

Implementation Method 1

The roll of mesh material has a first adhering side and a second non-adhering side... the adhering side of the roll of mesh material includes tissue engaging barbs for anchoring the mesh to tissue

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP2712580B1Surgical implant and applicator
Publication Date: 2017.01.11 COVIDIEN LP
  • EP2712580B1 patent drawing
  • EP2712580B1 patent drawing
  • EP2712580B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A surgical repair device is provided and includes a roll (12) of surgical mesh material and an applicator (10) for applying the roll of surgical mesh material to tissue. The applicator has a generally cylindrical body portion (14) defining a chamber for receipt of the roll of surgical mesh material and longitudinally extending edges (24, 26) defining a gap (28) therebetween for exposing the roll of surgical mesh material to the tissue. The surgical mesh material has a non-adhering surface (72) and an adhering surface (70) for engaging the tissue and securing the surgical mesh to the tissue. The roll of mesh material is oriented within the chamber with the adhering surfacing outward. A method of using the surgical repair device to repair a tear in tissue is also provided.