Desenvolvimento de dispositivo para treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico por manufatura aditiva

Abstract

The demand for new products combined with the emergence of new manufacturing techniques and the combination of promising sciences makes it possible to develop customized devices for women's health. In this scenario, mechanical biofeedback devices that act as adjuvants in the treatment of pelvic floor disorders, developed with customized characteristics using new technologies, can provide information during their use through visual and sensory stimuli. Therefore, this research aimed to develop a mechanical device for training the pelvic floor muscles using additive manufacturing. The study carried out was of a scientific nature of an applied nature, with an exploratory objective, with a qualitative approach, based on the action research method, being divided into six stages: biomimetic analysis, conceptual development, 3D modeling, computer simulation, manufacturing by additive manufacturing, bench testing and analysis of the prototype by healthcare professionals. For the conceptual development and parameterization of the device, bioinspiration was adopted from cashews and the vaginal canal, using resources such as 3D scanning and CT images to obtain the contours, which served as the basis for modeling the device in CAD software. Based on computational finite element simulation, the device was approved for use in terms of its ability to allow voluntary contractions of the pelvic floor during pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). The manufacturing carried out by MA using MJP 3 Polyjet technology was satisfactory for validating the design model. When submitting the device to simulated practice in an anatomical model, it was found that the requirements intended in the initial design were met, with emphasis on the visibility of the device by the patient, during use, in the lithotomy position. The device prototype, when analyzed by health professionals, was well evaluated and considered appropriate for use. In this way, the study proved to be satisfactory in all its phases, from the initial conception to the modeling, simulation and manufacturing stages. The development of a mechanical device for PFMT using AM has the potential to improve treatment in a clinical environment and facilitate the continuation of therapy by the patient at home, offering an integrated and effective approach to healthcare.