Ventriculostomy Patch Assembly for Adhesive Catheter Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ventriculostomy dressings fail to adhere to scalp tissue, risking dislodgement and allowing germ invasion, with no effective stabilization method for securing catheters, leading to potential brain infections.
Innovation Solution
A ventriculostomy patch system comprising a base-ring with a catheter-notch and adhesive gel, and a removable window assembly providing a sterile seal and securement, constructed from anti-microbial materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a chlorhexidine disk and transparent occlusive dressing are used to dress ventriculostomies, then the catheter is covered and protected, but the dressing does not adhere to scalp tissue, risking dislodgement and allowing germ invasion
Solution Approach 1:
The dressing system is divided into separate functional components: a base layer with adhesive properties for scalp attachment, a catheter securing mechanism with notches and clips, and a transparent occlusive window for protection and visualization. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively without compromising overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base layer is pre-coated with adhesive material and anti-microbial substances before application. The catheter securing features are pre-formed with notches and clips positioned to engage the catheter immediately upon application, ensuring secure attachment and germ barrier establishment from the outset.
2Reliability
If stapling is used to secure the catheter to the scalp, then the catheter is stabilized, but skin integrity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical stapling system is replaced with an adhesive bonding system. The base layer uses medical-grade adhesive to attach the dressing and secure the catheter to the scalp without penetrating or disrupting the skin, eliminating the harmful effects of stapling while maintaining reliable stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism transitions from a mechanical intrusion-based system (staples) to a chemical adhesion-based system (adhesive gel). This parameter change in the securing method allows the catheter to be firmly stabilized through adhesive bonding forces without compromising skin integrity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a non-removable dressing is used, then the catheter is securely covered, but dressing changes are difficult and increase infection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The dressing system incorporates dynamic, removable features including a detachable window assembly and a snap-fit catheter securing mechanism. These dynamic elements allow the dressing to be easily opened and changed by healthcare providers while maintaining a secure, sealed configuration during use, facilitating safe dressing changes without increasing infection risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The window assembly acts as an intermediary component that can be removed and replaced independently of the base layer. This allows the occlusive protective barrier to be changed without removing the entire dressing system, enabling easy maintenance of the germ barrier while preserving the secure attachment to the scalp.
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 system ensures secure catheter retention and prevents infections by maintaining a sterile barrier, allowing easy dressing changes while minimizing skin disruption and infection risk.
Implementation Method 1
The adhesive-ring is covered by a removable backing and the adhesive-ring is constructed from an anti-bacterial material
Implementation Method 2
The interface between the male-groove of the window assembly and the female-groove of the base-ring includes a gasket configured to provide a sterile seal from external elements
Implementation Method 3
the base-ring includes at least two dome-tabs, each of the at least two dome-tabs located upon the outer surface of the base-ring. Preferably, the base-ring is constructed from anti-microbial materials
Data Source
AI summary
A ventriculostomy patch system includes a base-ring and a window assembly.