Vascular Coupling Device Hermaphroditic Friction Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microsurgical vessel anastomosis techniques are time-consuming, expensive, and prone to human error due to the difficulty in handling small blood vessels and the unsuitability of traditional connection methods like suturing and staples, which can damage vessel walls or constrict blood flow.
Innovation Solution
A vascular coupling device comprising a back ring and an engaging coupler that creates a friction fit with the vessel end, allowing for secure coupling without piercing the vessel wall, using bio-compatible materials and a method for hermaphroditic engagement of identical coupling devices at a rotational offset to facilitate secure and bio-absorbable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional microsurgical suturing techniques are used to connect blood vessels, then the vessels can be connected, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the vessel ends from the complex suturing process by using a coupling device that mechanically connects prepped vessel ends directly, eliminating the need for time-consuming hand-sewn anastomosis while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device acts as an intermediary component between two vessel ends, providing a mechanical connection interface that replaces the suturing process. The coupling device includes features like a back ring, engaging coupler, and compression mechanism that securely join vessels without requiring prolonged surgical manipulation
2Reliability
If traditional connection methods like suturing or staples are used, then vessels can be connected, but the vessel walls may be damaged or blood flow constricted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the penetrating mechanical actions of sutures and staples with a compression-based mechanical system. The coupling device uses a compression mechanism that applies radial force to secure the vessel ends together without piercing or constricting the vessel walls, thereby eliminating tissue damage while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device incorporates flexible components such as the back ring and engaging coupler that can conform to the vessel geometry and apply distributed compression forces. These flexible elements secure the vessel connection through gentle radial compression rather than penetrating forces, preserving vessel wall integrity
3Reliability
If hand suturing techniques are used for vessel anastomosis, then vessels can be connected, but specialized training and expensive equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing through its mechanical features. The engaging arms, compression mechanism, and friction-fit components automatically position and secure the vessel ends when the device is applied, eliminating the need for specialized suturing skills or complex surgical techniques while maintaining reliable connection
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 solution provides a reliable, easy-to-install, and watertight connection between vessels, promoting vessel growth and healing without further damage, reducing the complexity and cost of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
assembling a first coupling device by sliding an inner surface of a first engaging coupler over the end of the first vessel and an outer surface of a first back ring. Sliding the inner surface of the first engaging coupler over the end of the first vessel and an outer surface of the first back ring may create a friction fit of the first engaging coupler and the first back ring with the end of the first vessel disposed therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations of the present disclosure relate to apparatuses, systems, and methods for anastomosing vascular systems in medical procedures. A pair of similar or identical coupling devices may be disposed at the ends of two vessels, either natural or synthetic. The coupling devices may be capable of hermaphroditically connecting to one another to provide a simple and secure connection which promotes growth of the vessels between the bio-absorbable coupling devices.