Surgical Mesh Insertion Device with Cutting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biomedical implant insertion systems face challenges in accurately positioning and securely attaching sub-urethral slings, as current devices often require cumbersome attachment mechanisms and undesirable forces, leading to potential dislodgment of the implant during uncoupling.
Innovation Solution
An implant insertion system featuring a surgical mesh with removable insertion aids connected via flexible links and a cutting element within an elongated shaft, allowing for precise positioning and secure attachment to the implant, which can be severed from the implant using an actuator, enabling controlled implantation and removal without tissue trauma.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional attachment mechanisms are used to secure the implant to the insertion device, then the implant can be held in place during insertion, but the uncoupling process requires undesirable forces that may dislodge the implant from the targeted position
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into two distinct functional components: an attachment portion that securely connects the implant to the insertion device during insertion, and a release portion that enables easy uncoupling after positioning. This segmentation allows the system to provide strong holding force during insertion while requiring minimal force for release, resolving the contradiction between reliable positioning and ease of uncoupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a high-strength state during insertion to a low-strength state during release. The attachment portion provides robust connection initially, then the release portion is engaged to facilitate easy uncoupling. This dynamic transition allows the system to adapt its mechanical properties to different operational phases, maintaining positioning accuracy while enabling simple removal.
2Reliability
If secure attachment is achieved during insertion, then the implant remains stable in the targeted position, but existing mechanisms may cause dislodgment during uncoupling
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the attachment function from the release function into distinct portions, the system ensures that the attachment portion maintains implant stability during insertion while the release portion enables trauma-free uncoupling. The segmented design prevents the harmful effect of dislodgment by providing a dedicated release mechanism that does not require forceful manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The release portion acts as an intermediary element between the implant and the external manipulation forces. Instead of applying force directly to the implant to achieve uncoupling, the release portion mediates the interaction, allowing the implant to be released without exposure to harmful forces that could cause dislodgment or tissue trauma.
3Ease of operation
If the insertion device remains connected to the implant throughout the procedure, then positioning can be adjusted, but the device cannot be removed from the body
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into an attachment portion for secure connection during positioning and a release portion for easy disconnection. This allows the insertion device to remain connected to the implant during the positioning phase for adjustments, then be easily removed by engaging the release portion, resolving the contradiction between positioning flexibility and device removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The release portion is prepared in advance as part of the attachment mechanism, ready to be engaged after positioning is complete. This preliminary preparation allows the system to maintain secure connection during positioning while having the capability for easy removal built-in, eliminating the need for complex removal procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of implanting a surgical mesh in tissue includes providing an implant having an insertion aid connected with an end, and providing an insertion device having a handle, an actuator, an elongated shaft, and a cutting element. The elongated shaft has an outer wall with an opening for receiving the insertion aid. The method includes inserting the insertion aid into the opening of the shaft for connecting the implant with the insertion device, forming a surgical opening in tissue, advancing the distal end of the elongated shaft and the implant connected with the insertion device through the surgical opening, and engaging the actuator for moving the cutting element from a first position to a second position for severing the insertion aid from the end of the implant.