Multi-Filter Tissue Collector for Size-Sorted Graft Fragments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for resecting and collecting tissue fragments do not effectively differentiate fragments by size, which can affect the long-term performance of tissue grafts in vivo.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a top housing, at least two filters with different pore sizes, a filter distractor, and a bottom housing, assembled together to form a container, allowing for the collection of tissue fragments of variable sizes using universal adapters for connection to resecting and suction devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single filter with fixed pore size is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot differentiate tissue fragments by size
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into multiple filters with different pore sizes (e.g., first filter with 250-350 microns, second filter with 150-250 microns, third filter with 50-150 microns) arranged in series. Each filter captures tissue fragments of specific size ranges, enabling size differentiation while maintaining a modular, manageable structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds the dimension of pore size variation across multiple filters arranged in series. Instead of a single filter operating in one dimension, the system uses multiple filters with progressively smaller pore sizes to create a size-based separation hierarchy, transforming a single-point filtration into a multi-stage size differentiation process
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple filters with different pore sizes are used, then tissue fragments can be differentiated by size, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration function is segmented across multiple filters with progressively smaller pore sizes. The first filter (250-350 microns) captures larger fragments, the second filter (150-250 microns) captures medium fragments, and the third filter (50-150 microns) captures smaller fragments. This segmentation enables precise particle size control while keeping each individual filter relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The filters are pre-assembled in a specific sequence with decreasing pore sizes before use. This preliminary arrangement ensures that tissue fragments are progressively filtered through each stage, with larger fragments captured first and smaller fragments captured in subsequent stages, eliminating the need for complex real-time control mechanisms
3Reliability
If tissue fragments are collected without size differentiation, then the collection process is simple and fast, but the long-term performance of grafts is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The collection system is segmented into multiple filtration stages, each capturing tissue fragments of specific size ranges. This segmentation ensures that only appropriately sized fragments are collected for grafting, improving graft reliability by preventing the use of fragments that are too large or too small, while maintaining a systematic and organized collection process
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of pore size across multiple filters to achieve size-based separation. By varying the pore size parameter from 250-350 microns in the first filter to 150-250 microns in the second filter and 50-150 microns in the third filter, the system ensures precise control over fragment size, directly impacting graft performance
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
Enables the collection and differentiation of tissue fragments based on size, improving the long-term performance of tissue grafts by ensuring appropriate particle sizes are used.
Implementation Method 1
at least two filters each having a different pore size
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for collecting tissue fragments of variable sizes from a surgical site are described herein. The devices can include at least two filters having a different pore size for the collection and sorting of tissue fragments by size.