Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Collection Device with Closed System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for collecting stem cells from umbilical cords are inefficient and prone to contamination, as they often involve open systems that allow maternal and microbial contaminants, and are limited by the need for manual handling and single syringe extraction, which can lead to safety hazards and reduced blood volume collection.
Innovation Solution
A device with a plurality of fenestrated needles and a negative pressure source is used to collect stem cells from the umbilical cord, featuring a positioning system to hold the cord in place and guide needle insertion, with a conduit for blood collection and anticoagulants to prevent clotting, and a method for delivering thawed cells using patient-derived or IV fluids for safe administration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If open system draining method is used, then collection process is simple, but contamination risk increases due to exposure to maternal and microbial contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
A closed collection system with a collection receptacle serves as an intermediary between the umbilical cord and the external environment. The system uses a needle to pierce the cord and draw blood into the sealed receptacle, preventing direct exposure to contaminants while maintaining operational simplicity through a straightforward穿刺 and collection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed collection system creates a protected environment that isolates the blood collection process from the external atmosphere. By sealing the collection receptacle and using a closed pathway for blood flow, the system effectively creates a controlled environment that prevents maternal and microbial contaminants from entering the collected blood.
2Device complexity
If single syringe extraction is used, then device complexity is reduced, but blood collection volume is limited and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collection system divides the blood collection function into multiple components: a collection receptacle for receiving and storing blood, a needle for piercing the cord, and a flow pathway for blood transfer. This segmentation allows the system to collect larger volumes of blood more safely by distributing the collection function across specialized components rather than relying on a single syringe.
3Extent of automation
If manual handling is used, then automation is reduced, but collection efficiency and precision are decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The collection system is designed to facilitate self-service collection by the healthcare provider. The closed system with its integrated components allows the operator to simply position the needle, pierce the cord, and allow blood to flow automatically into the collection receptacle, reducing the need for complex manual manipulation while maintaining high collection efficiency.
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 reduces contamination risks, increases blood collection efficiency, and allows for safe, efficient delivery of stem cells, enhancing the viability and therapeutic potential of umbilical cord-derived stem cells.
Implementation Method 1
A negative pressure source, such as a vacuum, may be used to draw the cells through the needles and the line
Implementation Method 2
A source of negative pressure, or suction, may be connected to the conduit from the umbilical cord to the collection vessel
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for collecting stem cells from an umbilical cord utilize a plurality of needles that are inserted into the umbilical cord. The needles may be fenestrated, and may have a common output to a line via which the stem cells are collected. A negative pressure source, such as a vacuum, may be used to draw the cells through the needles and the line. Apparatus for holding the umbilical cord, compressing the umbilical cord, positioning the plurality of needles in relation to the umbilical cord, guiding insertion of the needles toward and into the umbilical cord, withdrawing blood from the umbilical cord, and/or collecting blood withdrawn from the umbilical cord may be provided. One or more one-way check valves may be used to control fluid flow. Additionally or alternatively, a shunt may be used during blood collection to prevent backflow through the needles.