Materials and methods for protecting against neuromas
US10952806B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 2017 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 30, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/05
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The subject invention provides devices and methods for alleviating discomfort associated with neuroma formation. The devices and methods of the invention effectively use the body's natural response of reconstructing implanted biomaterials to minimize the size of, isolate, and protect a neuroma. In preferred embodiments, the subject device is a cylindrical cap, wherein the internal chamber of the cylindrical cap physically partitions the nerve to enable an arrangement of nerve fibers (as opposed to haphazardly arranged nerve fibers often produced in neuromas). Tabs arranged on the outside of the cap can be used to manipulate the cap into place on a nerve. The open end can also be configured with flaps that can be used to widen the open end for easier insertion of the nerve into the cap. In addition, the cap's material remodels into a tissue cushion after implantation, which protects the neuroma from being stimulated and inducing pain.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.