Suture Securement Devices with Resilient Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional method of securing sutures using knots is time-consuming, difficult to control, and prone to coming loose, especially in prosthetic device implantations like heart valves and annuloplasty rings.
Innovation Solution
Suture securement devices with resilient suture engagement slots and adjustable locking mechanisms that allow for secure clamping of sutures without tying knots, providing independent securement of multiple sutures and adjustable tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If knots are used to secure sutures, then sutures can be tied together and secured to tissue, but the process is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the knot-tying function from the suture system and replaces it with a separate securement device. The device includes a body with a cavity that receives the suture, eliminating the need to tie knots while maintaining securement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement device acts as an intermediary between the suture and the tissue/prosthetic device. Instead of directly tying the suture to itself or the tissue, the device mediates the connection through its cavity and engagement features, providing securement without knot-tying.
2Reliability
If knots are used to secure sutures, then sutures can be tied, but the amount of slack left in the sutures is difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific cavity structure within the securement device that is optimized for receiving sutures with controlled slack. The cavity's geometry and engagement features provide localized control over suture tension and slack, rather than relying on general knot-tying techniques.
3Reliability
If knots are used to secure sutures, then sutures can be tied, but the knots can be difficult or impossible to untie
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the permanent knot structure from the system and replaces it with a removable securement device. The device can be easily removed from the suture without damaging the suture or tissue, providing a non-permanent solution that allows for easy repair or adjustment.
4Reliability
If knots are used to secure sutures, then sutures can be tied, but the knots can accidentally come loose
Solution Approach 1:
The securement device serves as a stable intermediary that provides consistent, reliable securement. The device's cavity and engagement features create a mechanical interlock that is more stable than a knot, preventing accidental loosening while allowing controlled adjustment.
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
These devices enable faster, more secure suture engagement with precise control over slack, reducing the likelihood of loosening and allowing for easy adjustment and removal, suitable for various suture diameters and prosthetic applications.
Implementation Method 1
The slots can be resiliently widened to receive a suture and then released to clamp onto the suture
Implementation Method 2
the locking tab forms a ratcheting device that allows the slots to be tightened with simple compression on the device, but resists widening of the slots without first unlocking the locking tab
Implementation Method 3
The annular body can be resiliently compressible and/or expandable in a radial dimension to cause the free ends of the suture engagement members to move radially apart from each other so that a suture can be inserted into the space between the free ends. Then, when the annular body is released and allowed to resiliently return toward its natural state, the free ends close back together and pinch the suture to secure it
Data Source
AI summary
Some disclosed suture securement devices comprise a flat, thin, generally planar body that has one or more suture engagement slots extending into the body from a perimeter inlet for receiving sutures laterally into the device. The slots can be resiliently widened to receive a suture and then released to clamp onto the suture. Some embodiments include two or more such suture engagement slots that independently receive and secure different sutures. Some embodiments include one or more locking tabs that have a closed position that retains the slots against widening and blocks the inlet to the slot. In some embodiment two or more slots are position next to each other on the same side of the device, while in other embodiments slots are positioned on opposite sides of the device. Other types of suture securement devices are also disclosed.