Wound Closure System With Adjustable Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wound closure methods, such as stitches and staples, require training and are not adjustable, leading to complications in emergency situations and inadequate closure of major wounds, while adhesive bandages are unsuitable for large wounds and prone to removal.
Innovation Solution
A wound closure system comprising two main bodies with adhesive backing and an adjustable connector that allows unidirectional movement, enabling secure attachment to the skin and rapid closure of wounds, with options for adhesive or staple attachment and use in series for larger wounds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stitches or staples are used to close wounds, then the wound can be securely closed, but the procedure requires years of training to perfect and cannot be adjusted if the wound becomes inflamed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable adhesive main bodies with pre-applied adhesive backing that can be quickly applied and removed without sterilization or complex preparation. These single-use components eliminate the need for repeated sterilization procedures and extensive training, while still providing secure wound closure through the combination of adhesive attachment and adjustable connector mechanics.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable connector incorporates a ratchet mechanism that allows the wound closure device to be dynamically adjusted after application. If the wound becomes inflamed or the tension becomes excessive, the connector can be easily loosened or removed, providing adaptability that traditional stitches or staples lack. This dynamic adjustment capability eliminates the need for years of training to manage complications.
2Ease of operation
If adhesive bandages are used to close wounds, then they are easy to apply with minimal training, but they are prone to accidental removal and are not suitable for major wounds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the simplicity of adhesive bandages with the security of mechanical fastening systems. The main bodies use adhesive backing for easy application similar to bandages, but the adjustable connector with ratchet mechanism provides mechanical interlocking that prevents accidental removal. This combination allows the device to be easily applied like a bandage while providing the reliability needed for major wounds.
Solution Approach 2:
The wound closure system uses composite construction combining adhesive materials on the main bodies with a mechanical ratchet connector. The adhesive provides initial attachment and comfort similar to bandages, while the mechanical connector provides secure, adjustable fastening that prevents accidental removal. This composite approach enables the device to handle both minor and major wounds effectively.
3Reliability
If retention sutures are used on morbidly obese patients, then the wound can be closed, but the patient experiences intense pain and pulling at the wound site
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable connector with ratchet mechanism allows the wound closure tension to be dynamically adjusted and optimized for each patient. In morbidly obese patients, the connector can be set to provide appropriate tension without excessive pulling, and can be easily adjusted if pain becomes intense. This dynamic control eliminates the fixed, often excessive tension of traditional retention sutures while maintaining reliable wound closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows changing the tension parameter of the wound closure by adjusting the connector position on the main bodies. For morbidly obese patients, the connector can be positioned to provide lower, more comfortable tension while still achieving adequate wound closure. This parameter adjustment capability reduces patient pain while maintaining closure reliability, unlike fixed-tension retention sutures.
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 allows for quick, clean, and secure closure of both minor and major wounds with minimal training, providing adjustable tension and reducing complications in obese patients, while being adaptable for various wound types and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first main body and the second main body has an adhesive backing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6
AI summary
A wound closure system (2) includes a device having a first main body (4) and a second main body (6). Each of the first main body (4) and the second main body (6) has an adhesive backing (20). The first main body (4) is coupled to the second main body (6) by an adjustable connector (8). The adjustable connector (8) is permitted to move in a single direction. In the event of an injury, the first and second main bodies (4, 6) are placed on opposite sides of a wound (22) and are then pulled together, thereby sealing the wound (22).