Surgical Mesh Patch with Removable Cover for Hernia Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
The implantation of mesh patches for inguinal hernia repair is challenging due to the risk of polylactic acid micro-hooks sticking to surrounding tissue, requiring removal and potentially being torn, and improper positioning of the flap around the spermatic cord can lead to complications like testicular ischemia or recurrent hernia.
Innovation Solution
A removable cover made of sterile, smooth polymeric material is used to prevent micro-hooks from securing to tissue during implantation, allowing the mesh patch to be securely positioned with hooks gripping surrounding tissue once the cover is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If micro-hooks are used on the mesh patch to secure it to surrounding tissue, then the mesh patch can be firmly anchored, but the micro-hooks may stick to tissue during implantation and require removal, potentially being torn in the process
Solution Approach 1:
A protective covering is applied to the micro-hooks before implantation to prevent premature engagement with tissue. This preliminary protective action allows the micro-hooks to be safely handled and positioned without sticking to surrounding tissue during the implantation process, eliminating the need for removal and potential tearing.
2Reliability
If the flap is positioned tightly around the spermatic cord to prevent recurrent hernia, then hernia recurrence is reduced, but testicular ischemia may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The protective covering is selectively applied only to the micro-hooks on the mesh patch, leaving the flap material uncovered and capable of proper tissue integration. This localized protection allows different parts of the device to have different functional properties: the micro-hooks remain protected during implantation while the flap can still provide the necessary reinforcement without causing ischemia.
3Strength
If the mesh patch is implanted with micro-hooks exposed to grip tissue immediately, then secure fixation is achieved, but the fragile micro-hooks may be torn during positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The protective covering is applied to the micro-hooks before implantation to prevent premature engagement with tissue. This preliminary protective action allows the micro-hooks to be safely handled and positioned without sticking to surrounding tissue during the implantation process, eliminating the need for removal and potential tearing.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for performing surgery on a patient includes: a mesh patch comprising a top surface and a bottom surface; and a removable cover positioned adjacent to and in facing engagement with the bottom surface of the mesh patch. The bottom surface has a plurality of hooks positioned thereon. The cover is removed from the mesh patch as the mesh patch is positioned at a surgical site such that the hooks on the bottom of the mesh patch grip surrounding tissue of a patient and secure the mesh patch to surrounding tissue of the surgical site. A method for performing a surgery using such a device is also provided.