Variable Denier Suture Locking Through Small Instrument Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sutures face challenges in fitting through small surgical instrument openings and maintaining stability due to issues with backlash and loosening in traditional suture locks, particularly when using dynamic locks with varying suture dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A variable denier suture design with segments of differing deniers, including a first segment with a lower denier and a second segment with a higher denier, integrated through a transition zone, allowing for efficient threading and secure locking within surgical instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a suture with larger diameter is used to fill the opening and provide increased stability, then the suture stability and strength are improved, but the suture cannot fit through the small opening of the surgical instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The suture is divided into multiple segments with different deniers along its length. The distal segment has a smaller denier to fit through the instrument opening, while the proximal segment has a larger denier to provide stability and fill the opening effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the suture have different denier values tailored to their specific functions. The distal portion has smaller denier for threading through narrow passages, while the proximal portion has larger denier for providing structural stability and filling the surgical opening.
2Ease of operation
If a smaller denier suture is used to fit through the opening, then the suture can be threaded easily, but the suture provides decreased stability and strength
Solution Approach 1:
The suture is divided into multiple segments with different deniers along its length. The distal segment has a smaller denier to fit through the instrument opening, while the proximal segment has a larger denier to provide stability and fill the opening effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the suture have different denier values tailored to their specific functions. The distal portion has smaller denier for threading through narrow passages, while the proximal portion has larger denier for providing structural stability and filling the surgical opening.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a dynamic suture lock is used to accommodate varying suture dimensions, then the lock can adjust to different suture sizes, but backlash and loosening problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The suture lock is designed with dynamic elements that can adjust to accommodate the variable denier suture. The lock mechanism includes movable components that adapt to different suture diameters while maintaining secure locking through friction and geometric constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism utilizes changes in friction parameters and geometric parameters to accommodate varying suture dimensions. By adjusting the normal force and contact geometry, the lock maintains reliable engagement across different suture sizes without experiencing backlash or loosening.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of suturing includes: (1) wrapping a first segment of a suture through a traction loop; (2) pulling the traction loop and the first segment through an opening in a suture lock; (3) continuing to pull the traction loop such that a second segment of the suture extends through the opening, wherein the second segment has a greater denier than the first segment such that the second segment more nearly fills an entire dimension of the opening than the first segment; and (4) locking the suture in place with the second segment in the opening.