Wound Connector with Sensing Probe for Pressure Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current reduced-pressure treatment systems for tissue sites face challenges in ensuring proper application of reduced pressure due to improper dressing placement or sizing, leading to inadequate therapy, as caregivers may incorrectly apply dressings, resulting in suboptimal pressure distribution.
Innovation Solution
A connector system for fluidly coupling a conduit and manifold in reduced-pressure treatment systems, featuring a sensing probe that monitors pressure and provides alerts for improper application, ensuring correct alignment and aperture sizing through visual or audible feedback, thereby maintaining optimal pressure delivery to the tissue site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reduced-pressure treatment system is used to treat tissue sites, then tissue growth and healing are accelerated, but improper dressing application may result in inadequate pressure delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a sensing probe with a pressure sensor that provides real-time feedback on whether reduced pressure is being properly delivered to the tissue site. The system includes a processor that receives pressure data from the sensor and generates alerts or notifications to the caregiver if improper application is detected, enabling corrective action to ensure reliable pressure delivery.
2Reliability
If multiple monitoring components are added to detect improper application, then pressure delivery reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing probe is integrated within the connector body, merging the monitoring function into the existing dressing application structure. The connector includes a cavity that receives the manifold, and the sensing probe is positioned within this cavity to monitor pressure without requiring separate external monitoring equipment, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Measurement precision
If the sensing probe extends past the base plane to improve pressure detection, then measurement precision improves, but the risk of blockage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing probe includes a distal end portion that extends past the plane occupied by the base to position the pressure sensor in optimal location for accurate measurement. However, the probe also includes a protective configuration where the distal end is positioned adjacent to but not in direct contact with the manifold aperture, reducing blockage risk while maintaining measurement precision through strategic positioning.
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 accurate and consistent application of reduced pressure to the tissue site by detecting and correcting misalignments or blockages, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the therapy and preventing inadequate treatment.
Implementation Method 1
a sensing probe having a proximal end configured to be fluidly coupled to the at least one secondary lumen and a distal end extending to the cavity aperture, wherein the distal end is configured to be positioned adjacent to and in fluid communication with the manifold
Implementation Method 2
providing a reduced pressure in proximity to a tissue site augments and accelerates the growth of new tissue at the tissue site
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~3
AI summary
A system, apparatus, and method for treating a tissue site with reduced pressure includes a connector having a connector body. The connector body includes a cavity and a cavity aperture. The connector also includes a conduit port fluidly coupling a conduit to the cavity. The connector further includes a base adjacent the cavity aperture that is configured to be positioned adjacent a drape. The cavity is configured to be fluidly coupled to a manifold through an aperture of the drape. The connector also includes a sensing probe having a proximal end configured to be fluidly coupled to the conduit and a distal end extending to the cavity aperture. The distal end is configured to be positioned adjacent to and in fluid communication with a manifold.