Polymeric Vaginal Cuff Model with Embedded Mesh for Ligament Suturing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for surgical training in vaginal cuff procedures, particularly post-hysterectomy techniques, lack a safe and effective way to simulate the reattachment of uterosacral and cardinal ligaments to support the vaginal cuff, leading to potential complications.
Innovation Solution
A vaginal cuff surgical model with embedded mesh layers in polymeric materials, such as silicone or rubber, that mimics the anatomy of a vaginal cuff and uterosacral ligaments, allowing for realistic suturing practice and simulation of cuff closure procedures, including the use of a suture pad stand with angled positions to mimic the abdominal cavity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional surgical training methods are used for vaginal cuff procedures, then training can be performed with available resources, but the training is insufficient and unsafe for practicing complex post-hysterectomy techniques
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a realistic copy of the vaginal cuff anatomy using a polymeric material model that replicates the physical characteristics and structural features of actual vaginal cuff tissue, allowing surgeons to practice procedures on a safe, reusable replica without risking patient safety
Solution Approach 2:
The model is designed as a segmented training system where the vaginal cuff model can be used independently or combined with specific ligament attachments (uterosacral and cardinal ligaments) to simulate different procedural scenarios and complexity levels
2Adaptability or versatility
If a realistic surgical model is created to simulate vaginal cuff anatomy, then training effectiveness improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The model incorporates embedded mesh layers at specific locations within the polymeric material to simulate the attachment points for uterosacral and cardinal ligaments, providing localized anatomical accuracy without making the entire model overly complex
Solution Approach 2:
The vaginal cuff model combines polymeric material with embedded mesh layers to create a composite structure that mimics both the soft tissue characteristics and the structural attachment points, achieving anatomical realism through material composition rather than complex mechanical structures
3Reliability
If sufficient training on ligament reattachment is provided, then surgical outcomes improve, but the training time and resources required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The model allows surgeons to perform preliminary practice of ligament reattachment procedures on the realistic vaginal cuff model before actual surgery, enabling repeated practice sessions that build muscle memory and procedural confidence without risking patient safety
Solution Approach 2:
The model is designed to be self-contained and reusable, allowing surgical trainees to independently practice procedures multiple times without requiring additional resources or supervision for each practice session, thereby extending training capacity efficiently
Data Source
AI summary
A vaginal cuff surgical model and methods of manufacture and use thereof. The model includes a body (resembling a vaginal cuff) and appendages (resembling uterosacral ligaments) extending from the body. The model (body and appendages) is formed of silicone, rubber, a polymer, or other suitable material with one or more layers of mesh embedded within the polymeric material. The embedded mesh permits suture between the components of the model. The surgical model permits surgical practice of this important component of a total hysterectomy procedure via suturing across the model and to the appendages.