Articulated Tissue Graft Fixture for Precise Choroidal Translocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical procedures for treating age-related macular degeneration face challenges in properly placing and manipulating delicate choroidal tissue due to the intraocular working environment, leading to tissue damage, contraction, and loss of function during translocation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical device utilizing shape memory materials and articulated rings with grasping portions and tool attachments to facilitate intraocular clamping and manipulation of autologous tissue, minimizing trauma and maintaining alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If choroidal tissue is clamped between a support structure to facilitate tissue integrity, then tissue contraction is prevented and alignment is maintained, but the device complexity increases and intraocular manipulation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into two separate rings (first ring and second ring) that can be manipulated independently. Each ring can be positioned and secured separately, reducing the complexity of manipulating a single complex clamping device while maintaining tissue integrity between the two rings.
Solution Approach 2:
The first ring and second ring are configured to nest within or adjacent to each other when clamping the tissue. This nested arrangement allows both rings to be positioned within the constrained intraocular space while providing stable tissue support, reducing the overall device footprint and manipulation complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If the support structure is designed for precise placement, then tissue alignment is improved, but the ease of operation during microsurgical manipulation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint connecting the first and second rings is configured to be movable, allowing the rings to be positioned and adjusted dynamically during surgery. This movable joint enables precise final placement while maintaining ease of manipulation during the surgical procedure, as the rings can be adjusted to the correct position before being secured.
3Ease of operation
If the tissue is manipulated during translocation, then proper placement at target location is achieved, but tissue damage and contraction increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second rings are positioned and secured around the choroidal tissue before translocation begins. This preliminary clamping action protects the tissue from damage during subsequent manipulation and translocation, as the tissue is already secured between the rings. The rings remain in place during translocation, providing continuous protection while enabling safe movement to the target location.
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 precise placement and manipulation of choroidal tissue within the eye, reducing tissue damage and contraction, and ensuring proper alignment during surgical translocation.
Implementation Method 1
The device may be formed from a shape memory material and, thus, may take on different configurations based on temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A fixture includes a first ring member and a second ring member. The first ring member has a first open center and has a first tool connector disposed at a first radial position relative to the first open center. The second ring member has a second open center coupled to the first ring member at a joint. The joint is disposed at a second radial position relative to the first open center. The joint has a second tool connector. The joint is configured to enable movement of the first ring member relative to the second ring member.