Suture Loop and Clasp for Annular Tissue Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current discectomy procedures for treating sciatica caused by herniated discs do not effectively repair the defect in the annulus fibrosis, leading to potential post-operative reherniation and increased lower back pain.
Innovation Solution
A suture-based tissue repair system comprising a pre-tied suture loop with a sliding knot and a clasp-type component that captures the suture ends, along with a suture passer and retriever instrument, to securely approximate the annular tissue without the need for tying knots, and an optional plug to fill the defect.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard discectomy techniques are used to remove herniated nucleus pulposus, then neural decompression is achieved, but the defect in annulus fibrosis is not repaired leading to post-operative reherniation
Solution Approach 1:
A suture loop with clasp device serves as an intermediary mechanism to bridge and approximate the defect edges in the annulus fibrosis. The suture loop is passed through the defect and secured with a clasp, creating a reliable closure without requiring complex multi-component repair systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The repair system divides the closure function into separate components: a suture loop for approximation and a clasp device for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while maintaining overall system simplicity.
2Reliability
If extensive debulking is performed to minimize reherniation risk, then post-operative reherniation is reduced, but disc height collapse and lower back pain increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suture loop and clasp system converts the harmful effect of the annular defect into a beneficial repair mechanism. By approximating the defect edges with the suture loop secured by the clasp, the system transforms the vulnerability created by herniation removal into a strengthened, closed structure that prevents reherniation while preserving disc height.
3Reliability
If a suture loop with sliding knot and clasp device is used to repair annulus fibrosis defect, then reliable tissue approximation is achieved, but the procedure requires specialized instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The suture loop is pre-formed with a sliding knot before insertion, eliminating the need to tie knots during the surgical procedure. The clasp device is also prepared in advance, allowing for rapid deployment and secure attachment once the suture loop is positioned through the defect.
Data Source
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Figure 5A~5E
AI summary
The present invention provides an apparatus for suture-based tissue repair, preferably for the annulus of a spinal disc, that includes a suture loop preferably pre-tied with a sliding knot, a clasp-type component that captures the ends of the suture loop, and an optional plug member that fills the tissue defect. Also disclosed is a method that places the suture loop in a full-thickness stitch encircling the tissue defect, secures the ends of the suture loop to the clasp, and cinches the suture loop to approximate the tissue without the need to tie knots. Also disclosed is a suture passer that enables a suture strand or loop to be passed through the tissue wall, captured, and retrieved. The suture passer may optionally incorporate a clasp in such an arrangement that enables a suture loop passed through the tissue wall to be captured directly by the clasp.