Suture Tensioning Device with Movable Cleats and Visual Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgeons face challenges in managing suture tension and require improved apparatuses for secure and visually feedback during minimally invasive surgical procedures, particularly in complex procedures like tricuspid valve repair.
Innovation Solution
A suture tensioning device with a housing, movable and fixed cleats, indicator biasing elements, and an actuator that provides visual feedback on appropriate tension through a flexible indicator mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional suture management methods are used, then surgical procedures can be performed, but suture tension control is difficult and visual feedback is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an indicator mechanism that provides visual feedback to surgeons when appropriate suture tension is achieved. The indicator biasing element and indicator arm create a visual indicator that moves or changes state based on the tension level, allowing real-time feedback during the surgical procedure without requiring complex electronic systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual suture tensioning is used, then flexibility is maintained, but precision and security of tensioning is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic tensioning mechanism where the first cleat can move relative to the second cleat along the suture channel. This movable cleat system allows the device to adapt to different tension levels while maintaining precision through the guided movement path defined by the suture channel geometry. The actuator provides controlled actuation to achieve precise tensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an actuator as an intermediary mechanism between the surgeon's manual input and the suture tensioning process. The actuator translates manual operations into controlled movement of the first cleat, providing a mechanical advantage that enhances precision while maintaining operational simplicity through a well-defined actuation interface.
3Reliability
If secure suture tensioning is achieved, then surgical reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tensioning function into separate functional elements: a fixed second cleat array, a movable first cleat array, and an actuator. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the fixed cleats provide stable anchoring points while the movable cleats provide controlled tensioning, achieving reliable tensioning through modular functional separation rather than a monolithic complex structure.
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
The device ensures secure suture tensioning with visual confirmation, enhancing surgical efficiency and precision in minimally invasive surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
an indicator biasing element connected to the housing and colinear with the first cleat and the second cleat
Data Source
AI summary
A device for suture management and tensioning is disclosed. The device for suture tensioning may include a housing having multiple suture channels, a cleat array, several indicator biasing elements, and an actuator movable between an unlocked position, a tensioned position, and a locked position. The cleat array in the device for suture tensioning may also include at least one first cleat movable relative to the housing and colinear with a second cleat fixedly attached to the housing. The device for suture tensioning may also include an indicator biasing element which is colinear with each cleat pair.