Thread-like Cutting Element for Kerf-less Ligament Transection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for transecting the transverse carpal ligament in carpal tunnel syndrome treatment are invasive, cause tissue disruption, and result in rough cuts with kerf formation, leading to inflammation and prolonged healing.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive system using a thin, flexible thread-like cutting element routed around the ligament with a routing tool, such as a hollow introducer needle or hooked retrieval needle, to achieve a smooth kerf-less cut with minimal tissue disruption and no suturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If open surgical methods with scalpels are used to transect the ligament, then the ligament can be severed effectively, but incisions are required and tissue disruption occurs leading to prolonged healing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cutting function from traditional scalpels and incisions, using a threading system that passes through small punctures rather than requiring large incisions. The cutting element is introduced through a needle and advanced through the ligament, eliminating the need for open surgical exposure and reducing tissue trauma.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a needle as an intermediary tool to introduce the cutting element through minimal punctures. The threading system acts as a mediator that delivers the cutting action internally without requiring external incisions, thereby reducing tissue disruption while maintaining transection effectiveness.
2Productivity
If saw-like instruments are used to cut the ligament, then the ligament can be transected, but a kerf is created causing material removal and rough cut surfaces that increase inflammation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical sawing action with a threading-based cutting mechanism. Instead of using a reciprocating saw blade that removes material and creates a kerf, the system uses a thread that is pulled through the ligament, creating a clean cut without material removal or kerf formation, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing.
3Productivity
If multiple passes with a scalpel are used to complete the transection, then the ligament can be severed, but a complex pattern of cuts is imparted causing increased tissue trauma
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous cutting action by threading the cutting element through the ligament in a single continuous motion. This eliminates the need for multiple passes with a scalpel, creating a simple clean cut rather than a complex pattern of cuts, thereby reducing tissue trauma and improving patient outcomes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for transecting soft tissue, such as a ligament, and more particularly, the transverse carpal ligament. A retrieval tool and a threadlike cutting element enable the method to performed in a minimally invasive manner. The cutting element is routed into position about the target ligament such that the cutting element both enters and exits the body from the same side of the ligament. The smooth exterior surface of the cutting element serves to provide for a kerf-less cut.