EP4398951A1 - Device for preparing fat removed by liposuction for autologous fat transfer - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for preparing fat removed from a first zone of the body of a patient for re-injection into a second zone of the body of the patient. This device comprises: - a framework comprising a first and a second branch to which a first syringe and a second syringe are connected, - a connector element for connecting these two branches, the connector element engaging in the framework. The connector element is connected to a third syringe and is designed to adopt at least two positions: - an emulsification position, in which the connector element forms, with the first and second branches of the framework, a first circuit for flow of fat between the first syringe and the second syringe, - a transfer position, in which the connector element forms, with the first or second branch of the framework, a second circuit for flow of fat between the first or the second syringe and a third syringe. The connector element comprises a membrane for filtration of the fat.

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE: Device for the preparation of fat taken by liposuction for the transfer of autologous fat.

1. Field of the invention

The field of the invention is that of plastic surgery, more particularly cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.

More specifically, the invention relates to the general principle of "lipofilling", or lipostructure, aesthetic or restorative surgery, which consists of an injection of fat taken from an area of the patient's body where it is in excess in order to reinject it into another part of the patient's body that lacks it.

In particular, the invention relates to a device for emulsifying and filtering fat taken from a patient for autologous transfer thereof.

2. Prior art and its drawbacks

Lipostructure is a cosmetic or restorative surgery technique that consists of removing small amounts of fat from a patient's body to reinject them into the patient for the purpose of filling or remodeling. The lipostructure process is also called autologous fat transfer or autologous fat tissue grafting.

The lipostructure technique involves two main steps performed in series. In the first stage, known as fat harvesting, fat is removed and harvested from one or more fatty sites on a patient's body, such as the thighs or stomach, by a number of known techniques. , including liposuction or lipoplasty.

The collected fat is a complex mixture comprising several components. In particular, the fat taken is composed of mature adipocytes, precursor adipocytes, other precursor cells and lipids from ruptured mature adipocytes. Adipocytes are the primary cells of adipose tissue, which is the body's loose connective tissue where most fat is found. As connective tissue, adipose tissue also includes fibers, fiber fragments, and other non-fatty materials besides adipocytes. Lipids are molecules, including fat molecules, that can be simplistically characterized as free fat or fat particles.

The harvested fat can be sized into macro-fat, micro-fat or nano-fat in descending order of particle size.

In the second stage, known as fat reinjection, the harvested fat is injected back into the body of the same patient in small amounts at one or more target areas two or three levels deep (periosteum, muscles and hypodermis ).

The reinjected fat increases the volume at the treated reinjection site and improves the patient's appearance. Autologous fat grafting has certain advantages: no allergic reactions, correction of large volumes and improvement of the trophicity of the skin opposite.

Nano fat, compared to larger fats, has been found to be more suitable for fat reinjection as it produces significantly better results in the patient's final appearance. Indeed, nano-fat, or “nanofat” in English, corresponds to emulsified and filtered fatty tissue with a high concentration of stem cells. To obtain a purer “nanofat” comprising a high concentration of stem cells from of the harvested fat, the harvested fat must be broken down and sized before it is reinjected into the patient's body.

There are currently several different techniques for emulsifying and filtering the fat removed by liposuction to obtain a "nanofat" composed mainly of stem cells derived from adipose tissue or ADSC ("Adipose Derived Stem Cells" in English).

These techniques are generally based on emulsification then filtration using a system comprising either a single emulsification/filtration device, or several different devices, used successively to carry out emulsification then filtration of the grease. .

Generally, the emulsification step is carried out by successive round trips (for example 30 round trips) of the fat taken between two syringes connected to each other by a fat preparation device. More specifically, once the fat is removed by liposuction, it is pre-filtered to obtain micro-fat. The latter is then placed in a first syringe which is then connected to a second syringe, thanks to the grease preparation device. The practitioner then applies force to a plunger of the first syringe to force the grease through the grease preparation device to the second syringe. He then repeats this gesture to make the fat flow back from the second syringe to the first syringe, and so on, thus achieving the desired emulsification.

The filtration of the emulsified fat can be done by successive filtrations through different devices comprising filtering elements of different sizes in order to obtain different sizes of fat. The successive passages of the grease through these filtering elements of different sizes makes it possible to obtain smaller and smaller sizes of grease until obtaining nano-grease.

A disadvantage of the successive use of different devices for obtaining nanofat is that it is necessary to transfer the fat from one device to another, which increases the risks of contamination thereof.

There is also known a device for preparing fat taken by liposuction, designed to carry out emulsification and filtration on its own. This device, marketed under the name HY-TISSUE NANOFAT®, consists of a reservoir, or flexible plastic bag, comprising a filter, and a T-shaped element. More specifically, the two syringes used to emulsify the removed fat are connected to the device at the level of two branches of the T-element. In particular, they can be positioned either at 180° from each other (at the level of the two opposite upper branches of the T), but also at 90° (one at the level of an upper branch of the T and the other at the level of the lower branch or foot of the T).

The tank is then connected to the device at the level of the third leg of the T-piece.

A disadvantage of the HY-TISSUE NANOFAT® device is that its reservoir is by nature not completely rigid (soft plastic bag). Thus, the action of gravity causes it to take a vertical position, therefore not to remain in the linear extension of the branch of the T-shaped element to which it is connected and even to "toss" under the effect gestures applied by the practitioner on the T-element to achieve emulsification. This angle break and this induced movement relative to the T-element lead to risks of detachment of the tank from the T-element, as well as congestion and discomfort during the repetition of gestures by the practitioner for the emulsification. In addition, the 180° angle between the two syringes for emulsifying the fat imposes positioning of the practitioner's hands and wrists during the emulsification step that is not very ergonomic, which makes the operation uncomfortable and quickly tiring. for the practitioner.

There is therefore a need for a technique for emulsification and filtration of fat taken by liposuction before reinjection which is simpler and more ergonomic for the practitioner.

3. Presentation of the invention

The invention meets this need by proposing a device for preparing fat taken from a first area of a patient's body for reinjection into a second area of the patient's body. This preparation device comprises: a frame comprising a first and a second branch at the level of which a first syringe and a second syringe are respectively connected, a connection element of the first and second branches, this connection element fitting into the frame .

The connection element is connected to a third syringe, and is designed to assume at least two positions: an emulsification position in which the connection element forms with the first and second branches of the armature a first circulation circuit grease between the first syringe and the second syringe, a transfer position in which the connection element forms with the first or second arms of the armature a second circulation circuit for the grease between the first or the second syringe and a third syringe, and the connection member comprises a grease filtration membrane.

Thus, the invention proposes an entirely new and inventive approach to the preparation of fat taken from a patient before its reinjection. It relies on a single “all-in-one” device whose original layout successively emulsifies and then filters the collected fat. Indeed, the preparation device according to the invention makes it possible to directly connect up to three syringes together: two syringes to perform the emulsification function, and one that of filtration and recovery. In other words, the fat taken from a first syringe can be directly emulsified by successive passages between the first and the second syringe, then filtered by passing through a filtration membrane towards the third syringe.

The possibility of emulsifying, then of filtering without having to change device is offered by the connection element (thereafter the connection element is also called crankpin), which according to the invention performs not only the tilting of the first emulsification circuit to the second filter and transfer circuit, but also integrates the function of filtering emulsified fat and connects the third fat recovery syringe. When the connection element is in the emulsification position, the first circuit for emulsification allows the passage of the grease between the first and the second syringe through the branches of the frame supporting these syringes. When the connection element is in the transfer position, the second circuit connects the first or the second syringe to the third through the filtration membrane to end in the third recovery syringe.

Integrating the filtration membrane directly into the connection element has the advantage of making the device more compact. The rigid and “all-in-one” nature of the device according to the invention facilitates its handling. In addition, the risk of leakage is reduced, as well as the risk of contamination of the grease, the handling of the grease then being done in a closed circuit.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the first and second arms of the armature are positioned relative to each other in a V shape.

An advantage of this V-shape of the two branches of the frame is to improve the ergonomics of the device and to simplify its use by the practitioner. Indeed, it facilitates the practitioner's gesture during the emulsification phase thanks to a more ergonomic positioning of the practitioner's hands and wrists.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the first and second arms of the armature are positioned relative to each other at an angle (a) of between 45° and 135°, preferably 90°.

The practitioner's hands and wrists are therefore positioned relative to each other in a more ergonomic manner, which facilitates the gesture of the latter and therefore limits the risk of injury.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the first and second arms of the armature form a Y with the connection element.

An advantage of this Y-shape is that it offers a more ergonomic and natural grip. Indeed, it facilitates the emulsification of the grease between the two upper branches of the frame while allowing easy recovery of the grease filtered by the bottom of the device, that is to say by the connection element forming a third lower branch of the preparation device.

In addition, the fact that the branches of the armature which are used for emulsification are associated with a third branch formed by the connection element which incorporates a filtering membrane makes it possible to reinforce the solidity of the device, but also to simplify its use. and its operation.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, the first branch forms a first angle (|3A) with the connection element of approximately 112.5°-157.5°, preferably 135°, and the second branch forms a second angle (|3B) with the connection element of approximately 112.5°-157.5°, preferably 135°.

According to another particular aspect of the invention, the filtration membrane is held in the connection element by means of a cover fixed to the connection element. This cap includes a connection port with the third syringe.

Advantageously, the cover is fixed to the connection element, thus making it possible to create therewith a closed chamber in which the filtration membrane is installed. In addition, the cap comprises at one of its faces a threaded end piece of the Luer type, onto which the third syringe is screwed. Thus, it is possible using a single device to emulsify the fat collected, then to filter it. This all-in-one manipulation makes it possible in particular to facilitate the procedure for preparing the fat before reinjection into a patient and to limit the risks of contamination thereof.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the armature comprises at least one slide comprising a first end for engaging the emulsification position and a second end for engaging the transfer position and the connection element comprises a base comprising at least one fixing stud, said at least one fixing stud being designed to fit and slide in said at least one slideway until it is locked in one or the other of the first and second ends, when the the connecting element is placed in the corresponding position. Advantageously, the fixing studs therefore make it possible both to make the connection element movable with respect to the armature and to maintain, in a reversible manner, this connection element in one or the other of the positions. Advantageously, the fixing studs make it possible to prevent the connection element from inadvertently changing position during the emulsification step or during the transfer step, thus preventing the performance of these correct way.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the connection element comprises a central stud fixed to the base and oriented along a longitudinal axis (y) of the frame, the central stud comprising at least two movement transformation interfaces in which come sliding at least one follower of the first branch and at least one follower of the second branch of the armature for a transformation of a rotational movement of the connection element relative to the armature, under the effect of an action of rotation of the connection element exerted by a practitioner on the base around the longitudinal axis (y), in a movement of translation of the connection element along the longitudinal axis (y). Advantageously, the transition from an emulsification position to a transfer position is done very simply by rotation of the connection element by the practitioner around a vertical longitudinal axis. The rotational movement of the connection element is simultaneously transformed into a translational movement along this longitudinal axis (or vertical "y" axis in a conventional orthonormal frame) thanks to the cooperation between movement transformation interfaces located on its central stud and followers located on the arms of the frame. This displacement of the connection element makes it possible, depending on the direction of rotation chosen, to form the first or the second circuit for circulating the grease.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the central stud further comprises: a first fat emulsification channel intended to form with the first and second arms of the armature the first circuit for circulation of the fat between the first syringe and the second syringe, when the connection element is placed in the emulsification position, a second fat transfer channel intended to form with the first or second arms of the armature the second circuit for circulating the fat between the first or the second syringe and the third syringe, when the connection element is placed in the transfer position.

The invention also relates to a method for preparing fat taken from a first area of a patient's body for reinjection into a second area of the patient's body. This method uses the preparation device as described previously and comprises the following steps: positioning the connection element in the emulsification position; emulsification of the fat withdrawn by successive and repeated pressures of an operator on the first and second syringes, the pressures causing a circulation of the fat in the first circuit of the first syringe towards the second syringe and vice versa; a positioning of the connection element in the transfer position by a change of position of the connection element relative to the armature; filtration and transfer of the emulsified fat by pressure from an operator on one of the first or second syringes, the pressure causing circulation of the fat taken from the second circuit through the filtration membrane into the third syringe. 4. Brief description of figures

Other aims, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description, given by way of a simple illustrative example, and not limiting, in relation to the figures, among which:

[fig. 1]: FIG. 1 represents a diagram of an exploded view of the various elements constituting the grease preparation device according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 2]: FIG. 2 represents a diagram of the frame of the fat preparation device according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 3A]: FIG. 3A represents a diagram of the crank pin of the grease preparation device according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 3B]: FIG. 3B represents a diagram of a longitudinal section of the crankpin of the preparation device according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 4]: FIG. 4 represents a diagram of a cover of the grease preparation device according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 5]: FIG. 5 represents a diagram of the fat preparation device in the emulsification position according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 6]: FIG. 6 shows a diagram of the fat preparation device in the fat transfer position according to one embodiment of the invention;

[fig. 7A], [fig. 7B], [fig. 7C], [fig. 7D], [fig.7E]: FIGS. 7A to 7E represent the steps of the emulsification process implementing the fat preparation device according to one embodiment of the invention.

5. Detailed description of the invention

The invention relates to a device for preparing fat taken by liposuction for obtaining nano-fat for autologous transfer of the latter to a patient. More particularly, the invention relates to a grease preparation device configured to emulsify and filter grease which is more ergonomic and simpler in its use than the known devices of the prior art. In addition, the grease preparation device according to the invention makes it possible to limit external contamination of the grease by proposing to emulsify and filter the grease in a closed circuit, that is to say without changing the preparation device during of procedure.

For this, the fat preparation device according to the invention connects several standard syringes together and can move reversibly from a first emulsification position to a second position for transferring the emulsified fat. Thus, it is possible to recover nano-fat of better quality in a very simple way and with a minimum of operations for the practitioner.

We now present in connection with Figure 1 a diagram in exploded view of the various elements constituting the grease preparation device according to an embodiment of the invention.

The fat preparation device 100 comprises several distinct elements which interlock with each other in a reversible or irreversible manner. Once assembled, these different elements form the preparation device 100.

Among these elements, there are at least three main elements: a frame 1, a crank pin 2 and a cover 3, which are described below, respectively in connection with Figure 2, Figure 3 A, Figure 3 B, and Figure 4.

In particular, the crank pin 2 fits into the frame 1 and the cover 3 fits into the crank pin 2. More particularly, the crank pin 2 is secured to the frame 1 in such a way that at least a part of the pin 2 passes through the frame 1 along its longitudinal axis. Thus, the longitudinal axes of the pin 2 and the frame 1 coincide. In other words, if we consider a conventional orthonormal frame in the three xyz directions, the crankpin 2 is fitted into the frame 1 along the same vertical axis y.

The cover 3 is fixed on the crank pin 2 in such a way that its longitudinal axis y coincides with the longitudinal axis y of the crank pin 2.

Crankpin 2 is assembled under frame 1 and cover 3 is assembled under crankpin 2 along a vertical axis y. In addition, crankpin 2 is movable relative to frame 1 and designed to be operated by a practitioner. More specifically, under the effect of such an action (such as for example the application of a rotational movement around the axis y of the crankpin 2 by the practitioner in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction), the crankpin 2 can take two distinct operating positions with respect to the frame 1. These two positions of the crankpin 2 correspond to the first emulsification position and the second position for transferring the emulsified fat.

The preparation device 100 further comprises a shell 6 formed of a first part 6a and a second part 6b. These two parts 6a and 6b fit into each other using a plurality of studs 60a and 60b (not shown) located on the internal face of the first and second parts 6a and 6b of the shell. 6. The studs of the internal phase of the first part 6a are complementary to the studs of the internal face of the second part 6b and allow the fixing of the shell 6 around the frame 1. The studs 60a and 60b of the shell 6 pass through openings 10 made in the chassis 1. Once assembled to the chassis 1, the first and second parts 6a and 6b of the shell 6 surround the latter to protect it from possible damage, for example during transport of the preparation device 100 or else mishandling by a practitioner (eg fall, shock, etc.).

The preparation device 100 also comprises a filtering membrane 4 positioned in the crankpin 2 and maintained using the cover 3. This filtering membrane 4 makes it possible to filter the fat after emulsification during its transfer for recovery of the nanofat, before autologous grafting in a patient.

The filter membrane 4 is for example a flexible filter membrane made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate). Filtration through this type of flexible membrane is less stressful, or traumatic for the elements constituting the nano-fat, which contributes to a better quality of nano-fat obtained at the end of the emulsification/filtration process using the preparation device 100.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the filtering membrane 4 comprises a mesh size of between 420 μm and 460 μm, preferably 440 μm. Thus, it is possible to obtain nano-grease without having to successively change filter sizes, to gradually reduce the size of the grease. In other words, a single single pass of the emulsified fat through the filtration membrane 4 is necessary to obtain nano-fat.

We now present in connection with Figure 2 a diagram of the frame according to an embodiment of the invention.

The frame 1 is a frame on which two standard syringes can be fixed, in particular syringes with a Luer tip, the crankpin 2 and the shell 6. In other words, the syringes, the crankpin 2 and the shell 6 are assembled around this central frame 1 of the preparation device 100. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the frame 1 is a rigid frame in the form of a single piece, that is to say a single piece. The frame 1 is for example made of rigid plastic.

In particular, the frame 1 makes it possible to connect at the level of a first branch A and a second branch B two syringes fixed to the latter in a conventional manner, for example via a Luer tip system. The first branch A and second branch B are symmetrical to each other along the longitudinal axis y of the frame 1.

In other words, the two syringes are connected to each other via the crankpin 2 thanks to the frame 1.

For this, the first branch A and the second branch B of the frame 1 each comprise a syringe connection port 12a and 12b in the form of a female Luer tip (or "Luer lock" in English) on which is fixed by rotation the male Luer tip of the syringes. The Luer fitting is a standardized system of fittings for small fluids used to make leak-free connections between a male cone fitting and its corresponding female part.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first and second branches A and B of the frame 1 further comprise at least one protuberance each, also designated as followers 13a and 13b, which each engage in a complementary manner in interfaces of movement of a central stud of the crank pin 2.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, these two followers 13a and 13b, once engaged in the movement interfaces of the crankpin 2, allow, in collaboration with the movement interfaces of the crankpin 2, the conversion of a rotational movement of the crankpin 2 around its longitudinal axis y in a translation movement along the y axis in a conventional orthonormal frame. In other words, if it is considered that the frame 1 is fixed relative to the practitioner, then the followers 13a and 13b make it possible, once engaged in the movement interfaces of the crankpin 2, to transform a clockwise or counterclockwise around the y-axis of the crankpin 2 relative to the frame 1 in an up/down movement along the y-axis of the crankpin 2 relative to the first and second branches A and B of the frame 1. It follows that the crank pin 2 can take two different positions with respect to the frame 1: a low position or remote from the frame 1 corresponding to the first position of emulsification of the grease, in which the first and second branches A and B, therefore the two syringes are connected, and a high or close position of the frame 1 corresponding to the second fat transfer position, in which the first and second branches are disconnected, and at least one of these branches is connected to another syringe connected to the crankpin 2. The detail of the arrangement of the frame 1 and the crankpin 2 in relation to the different positions is described in connection with figure 5 and figure 6.

In a variant, the practitioner applies a translational movement relative to the frame 1 to the crankpin 2 along the vertical axis y and it is the followers 13a and 13b of the branches A and B, which, once engaged in the interfaces of movement of the crankpin 2, make it possible to maintain the latter in one of the first or second positions of emulsification or transfer. In other words, the followers 13a and 13b slide in the corresponding movement interfaces of the crank pin 2 along a vertical axis y, the positions being maintained for example using notches or notches at the interfaces. movement of the crankpin 2. In addition, the frame 1 comprises a base 14 on which the first and second branches A and B are mounted. These first and second branches A and B are then positioned relative to each other on this base 14 according to the shape of a V. In other words, the angle a between the longitudinal axis passing through the center of the first branch A and the longitudinal axis passing through the center of the second branch B is between 45° and 135° °, preferably 90°. Thus, during a conventional emulsification step by successive round trips in two syringes, the practitioner's wrists are positioned substantially between 45° to 135°, preferably 90°, from each other. The practitioner's hands are therefore positioned in a much more comfortable and ergonomic way, which reduces fatigue and the risk of injury.

The base 14 of the frame 1 comprises at least one, preferably two slides 11a and 11b. These first and second slides 11a and 11b are for example in the form of circular arc openings, positioned facing each other at the level of the external part of the base 14. For example , the slides 11a and 11b have a length corresponding to a quarter circle and are positioned opposite each other symmetrically with respect to the center of the base 14 of the frame 1.

In this exemplary embodiment of the invention, the slides 11a and 11b comprise a constriction at their two ends making it possible to hold the crankpin 2 in the emulsification position or in the transfer position. The transition from one position to another is reversible and is done by simply disengaging the crankpin 2 from one or the other of the ends of the slides 11a and 11b. In other words, the slides 11a and 11b each comprise a first end for engaging the emulsification position, and an end for engaging the transfer position. The passage from one position to the other is done by exiting the pin 2 from the constriction of one end of one of the slides 11a or 11b for fitting into the constriction of the other end of the slides 11a or 11b.

These first and second slides 11a and 11b thus make it possible to secure the crank pin 2 to the frame 1 while allowing a movement in rotation and/or translation along the axis y of the crank pin 2 with respect to the frame 1.

In a variant, the slide or slides 11a and 11b are simple circular openings, that is to say holes passing through the base 14 of the frame 1.

We now present in connection with Figure 3A and Figure 3B, respectively a diagram and a longitudinal section of the pin according to one embodiment of the invention.

The crank pin 2 is the connection element of different parts of the preparation device 100. In other words, the crank pin 2 allows either to connect the two syringes fixed on the first and second branches A and B of the frame 1 one with the another, or to connect one of these syringes with another syringe fixed at the level of the skirt 22 of the crank pin 2 via the cover 3. In particular, it is the change of position (from the emulsification position to the position transfer and vice versa) of the crankpin 2 which makes it possible to create two different circuits for the circulation of the flow of grease, and therefore to connect the different syringes two by two according to these different circuits.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the crank pin 2 comprises a base 24 supporting at least one, preferably two fixing studs 20a and 20b, or annular clips, fixed to the base 24 at a first end. The fixing studs 20a and 20b are, for example, substantially cylindrical with, at a second end, a widening in conical shape. The fixing studs 20a and 20b fit respectively in the slides 11a and 11b of the frame 1. The conical flare of the studs of fixing 20a and 20b makes it possible to secure the crankpin 2 to the frame 1. More particularly, the particular shape of the fixing studs 20a and 20b first allows the fitting of the crankpin 2 in the slides 11a and 11b of the frame 1 and then prevents the dislocation of the crankpin 2. Thus, the fixing studs 20a and 20b allow the assembly and the joining of the crankpin 2 with the frame 1.

The base 24 of the crankpin 2 comprises a grooved skirt 22 to facilitate gripping of the crankpin 2 by the practitioner.

Once positioned in the slides 11a and 11b, the fixing studs 20a and 20b also allow the crank pin 2 to be movable relative to the frame 1 (when it is considered that the frame 1 is fixed relative to the practitioner).

The crankpin 2 comprises on its base 24 a central stud 23. In an exemplary embodiment, the central stud 23 is located between the two fixing studs 20a and 20b. The central stud 23 has a larger size than the fixing studs 20a and 20b and crosses the frame 1 between the two branches A and B. The central stud 23 comprises at least one, preferably three circular grooves 25 in which are positioned joints of seal 5. These seals 5 make it possible to guarantee the seal of the preparation device 100 during the emulsification and transfer stages.

The crank pin 2 comprises at least one, preferably two movement interfaces 26a and 26b. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, these two movement interfaces 26a and 26b allow the transformation of the rotation of the crankpin 2 relative to the frame 1 into translation thereof in the frame 1 along the longitudinal axis of the crankpin 2 and of the chassis 1. For example, these movement interfaces 26a and 26b, or movement conversion, are in the form of substantially semi-helical grooves located at the level of the end of the central stud 23 furthest from the base 24 , and are located opposite each other. It is this particular form of grooves which allows the transformation of the rotational movement into a translational movement.

The followers 13a and 13b of branches A and B engage in these two opposite grooves. Thus, when the practitioner applies a rotational movement to the crank pin 2, for example by turning the crank pin 2 by a quarter turn relative to the frame 1 (rotation around the longitudinal axis y), the two followers 13a and 13b follow the semi-helical grooves 26a and 26b which allows the central stud 23, and therefore by extension to the whole of the crank pin 2, to have a translational movement along the y axis, which has the effect of moving away or to bring the crankpin 2 closer to the frame 1. The fixing studs 20a and 20b for their part then slide in the slides 11a and 11b of the frame 1 in a reversible manner up to a blocking position located at one or the other of the ends of the slides 11a and 11b. In a variant, the grooves, or movement interfaces 26a and 26b, are straight along a vertical axis y of the crankpin 2 and include notches or notches. The followers 13a and 13b then engage in the notches of the grooves 26a and 26b to hold the crankpin 2 in one position or the other. The change of position of the crankpin 2 is then done by simple translation along the axis y of the crankpin 2 relative to the frame 1.

The central block 23 also includes a first grease passage channel 27 which crosses it from side to side in a transverse manner, that is to say along an axis x. The central pads 23 also comprises a second fat transfer channel 28 which passes through the central pad 23 transversely only on part of the latter.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first channel 27 is positioned above the second channel 28 in the central stud 23, the inlet of the second channel 28 being offset by a quarter turn around the vertical axis y with respect to the through openings of the first channel 27. In a variant, the first channel 27 is positioned above the second channel 28 in the central pad 23, the entry of the second channel 28 being aligned with one of the through openings of the first channel 27.

FIG. 3B is a longitudinal section of the crankpin 2. The first grease passage channel 27 of the central stud 23 makes it possible to connect the two syringes fixed to the first and second branches A and B of the frame 1 during the step of emulsification. The second fat transfer channel 28 of the central stud 23 is dug inside the central stud 23 first transversely (along the horizontal x axis), then longitudinally (along the vertical y axis). Advantageously, the second channel 28 has substantially the shape of an inverted L hollowed out inside the central stud 23. In other words, the channel 28 forms an elbow inside the stud 23. This second channel 28 makes it possible to connect the one of the syringes fixed on the first branch A or the second branch B of the frame 1 to a third syringe connected to the lower end of the crankpin 2, during the transfer step.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the channel 28 in particular connects the branch B to the crankpin 2, it is thus not possible to make a transfer between the syringe connected to the branch A to the third syringe connected to the crankpin 2 .

Thus, when the crankpin 2 is in the emulsification position, the connection ports 12a and 12b of the frame 1 are opposite the first passage channel, or emulsification, of the grease 27 to form a first circuit circulation of the fatty flow between two syringes fixed to the connection ports 12a and 12b via the passage channel 27.

Conversely, when the crankpin 2 is in the fat transfer position, it is only one of the connection ports 12a or 12b which is found opposite the second fat transfer channel 28 to form a second greasy flow circulation circuit between one of the syringes fixed to one of the connection ports 12a or 12b and a third syringe connected to the lower end of the crankpin 2, via this second channel 28.

We now present in connection with Figure 4 a diagram of a cover according to an embodiment of the invention.

The cover 3 comprises a connection port, or Luer fitting, female 30 allowing the fixing of a syringe with a male Luer fitting on the cover 3.

The cover 3 comprises a skirt 31 enabling it to fit into the crankpin 2 at the level of the face of the base 24 of the crankpin 2 opposite to that comprising the fixing studs 20a and 20b and the central stud 23, or so-called underside of the crank pin 2.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cover 3 is fixed irreversibly to the pin 2, for example by ultrasonic welding. The filtration membrane 4 is then fitted into the crank pin 2 thanks to the fixing of the cover 3. In other words, the filtration membrane 4 is “sandwiched” between the crank pin 2 and the cover 3.

In a variant, the cover 3 is fixed in a reversible manner, for example thanks to a complementary thread between the crankpin 2 at the level of the face of the base 24 of the crankpin 2 opposite to that comprising the fixing studs 20a and 20b and the stud central 23 and the skirt 31 of the cover 3 and a seal. Advantageously, it is possible to change the filtering membrane 4 and to reuse the preparation device 100.

Thus, the crankpin 2 forms a third branch of the grease preparation device 100 which comprises a filtration membrane held by the cover 3, the first and second branches being the branches A and B of the frame 1.

As described above, the preparation device 100 makes it possible to recover the nanofat resulting from fat taken for example by liposuction in a lipostructure procedure. In particular, in order to recover the nano-fat, the preparation device 100 according to the invention makes it possible to emulsify the fat and to filter it within a single fat preparation device.

For this, the preparation device 100 is designed to take two positions: the first so-called emulsification position for the emulsification step by successive round trips of the fat in two standard syringes and in which the connection element 2 (that is to say the crankpin 2) forms with the first and second branches A and B of the frame 1 a first grease circulation circuit between a first syringe and a second syringe fixed to the frame 1 via the branches A and B; the second so-called transfer position for the transfer of fat from one syringe to another through a filtering membrane 4 and in which the crankpin 2 forms with one of the first or second branches A and B of the frame 1 a second circuit of circulation of the grease between the first or the second syringe and a third syringe fixed via the cover 3 at the level of the underside of the crank pin 2.

It is the movement of the crankpin 2 relative to the frame 1 which allows this change of position. In particular, as described above, the crankpin 2, thanks to the fixing studs 20a and 20b which slide in the slides 11a and 11b of the frame 1, can turn a quarter turn clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the base. 14 of frame 1 around the y axis. The followers 13a and 13b then follow the semi-helical movement conversion interfaces 26a and 26b of the central block 23 of the crankpin 2 which transforms the rotational movement into translational movement of the crankpin 2 along the axis y. Consequently, the crankpin 2 passes from the first emulsification position to the second transfer position (and vice versa) by rotation around the y axis and simultaneous translation along this axis.

An advantage of such a preparation device 100 based on the conversion of a rotational movement into a translational movement is that it is simple to use, that is to say that the practitioner has only a limited number gestures to be made to carry out the first emulsification operation, change the position device then carry out the second filtration/transfer operation, but also simple to carry out. Indeed, to produce such a preparation device, it is not necessary to assemble several complex parts. On the contrary, a limited number of simple pieces is enough.

In addition, the preparation device 100 according to the invention is particularly ergonomic while guaranteeing the obtaining of a nano-fat of excellent quality. We now present in connection with Figure 5, a diagram of the fat preparation device in the emulsification position according to an embodiment of the invention.

During the emulsification step, the connection element 2, that is to say the crankpin, is in the so-called emulsification position with respect to the frame 1. More specifically, in the emulsification position, the base 24 of crank pin 2 is remote by a distance d, for example from 4 to 5 mm, preferably equal to 4.4 mm, from frame 1, that is to say that there is a space, or play, between the base 24 of the crank pin 2 and the base of the frame 1. Thanks to the particular shape of the fixing studs 20a and 20b which slide in the slides 11a and 11b in the base 14 of the frame 1, the crank pin 2 is movable relative to the frame 1, while remaining attached to it.

In the emulsification position, the syringe connection ports 12a and 12b can communicate with each other via the grease passage channel 27 located in the central stud 23 of the crank pin 2. Thus, the flow of grease ( represented by the gray arrows) to be emulsified can pass from a first syringe connected to a first connection port 12a to a second syringe connected to a second connection port 12b. THE successive passage of the grease from one syringe to another makes it possible, for example after 30 round trips by application of pressure on one or the other of the pistons of the syringes by the practitioner, to emulsify the fat to obtain the nano-fat.

Advantageously, the first branch A of frame 1 forms an angle 0A with crankpin 2 of approximately 112.5°-157.5°, preferably 135°, and the second branch B of frame 1 forms an angle 0B with crankpin 2 approximately 112.5°-157.5°, preferably 135°. Thus, the preparation device 100 is more ergonomic in its use. The angle ΔA is the angle between the longitudinal axis passing through the center of the first branch A and the longitudinal axis passing through the center of the crank pin 2 and the angle ΔB is the angle between the longitudinal axis passing through the center of the first branch B and the longitudinal axis passing through the center of the crankpin 2.

In other words, the preparation device 100 according to the invention comprises three branches: a first branch A of the frame, a second branch B of the frame and a third branch formed by the crankpin 2. These three branches are then positioned one in relation to the other in the form of a Y in order to guarantee the best possible ergonomics. We now present in connection with Figure 6, a diagram of the fat preparation device in the transfer position according to an embodiment of the invention.

During a grease transfer step, the connection element 2, or crank pin, is in the so-called grease transfer position with respect to the frame 1. More particularly, in the transfer position, the base 24 of the crank pin 2 n 'is further away by the distance d (d=0) from the base 14 of the frame 1, that is to say that there is no longer any space between the base 24 of the crankpin 2 and the base 14 of chassis 1.

In addition, one of the branches A or B of the frame 1 is then connected to the fat transfer channel 28. Thus, the emulsified fat present at the end of the emulsification step in one of the syringes, then called transfer syringe, passes through the connection port of the latter, then the transfer channel 28 to end up in the syringe fixed on the cover 3, or recovery syringe.

In this example, it is the connection port 12b which is then connected to the fat transfer channel 28. Thus, the emulsified fat can be transferred from the transfer syringe connected to the connection port 12b to a third syringe connected to the port connection 30 of the cover 3 via the fat transfer channel 28. In order for the practitioner to be able to identify which branch of the frame is the transfer branch, that is to say on which the transfer syringe is fixed, an arrow on the transfer branch is shown.

The emulsified grease then passes through the filtering membrane 4 sandwiched between the crankpin 2 and the cover 3.

In a variant, the practitioner manipulates the crankpin 2 by applying a longitudinal translational movement to it (along the y axis) relative to the frame 1 to move from one position to another. In other words, the practitioner moves the crank pin 2 away from or brings it closer to the frame in the direction of the longitudinal axis y, by raising or lowering it relative to the frame 1. diagrams of the different steps of the emulsification/filtration process implementing the fat preparation device according to an embodiment of the invention.

In a step E01 (not shown), during a lipostructure operation, the practitioner recovers the patient's fat in the conventional manner. This fat can for example also be pre-filtered according to a known filtration technique to eliminate all the particles which are not fat or fat cells and in particular to recover the micro-fat. In a step E02 in connection with FIG. 7A, the practitioner attaches a standard syringe S3 to the level of the connection port 30 of the cover 3 of the preparation device 100. For this, the practitioner can hold the preparation device 100 by the skirt 22 of the crankpin 2. He then screws the male Luer tip of the syringe S3 onto the female Luer tip, or connection port 30 of the cover 3 associated with the crankpin 2 at the level of the underside of the crankpin 2, in a conventional manner.

In a step E03, in connection with FIG. 7B, the practitioner then screws the male Luer tip of two other syringes SI and S2 in a conventional manner onto the connection ports 12a and 12b of branches A and B of the preparation device 100 One of these syringes, for example syringe S2, contains the fat previously sampled and optionally prefiltered which must be emulsified to recover the nano-fat.

In a step E04, in connection with FIG. 7C, the practitioner positions the crankpin 2 in the emulsification position. More specifically, the practitioner turns, for example a quarter turn, the crankpin 2 until the fixing studs 20a and 20b of the crankpin 2 slide in the slides 11a and 11b of the frame 1 until the throttle located one of the ends of the slides 11a and 11b to clip the fixing studs 20a and 20b in the slides 11a and 11b and thus maintain the emulsification position. The rotational movement around the axis y of the crankpin 2 is then transformed simultaneously into a translational movement along this axis of the assembly of the crankpin 2 by sliding of the followers 13a and 13b in the movement conversion interfaces 26a and 26b of the central block 23. The base 24 of the pin 2 is then separated from the base of the frame 1 by a distance d. In other words, the crankpin 2 rotates and descends relative to the frame 1 along the y axis. The central block 23 therefore rotates a quarter turn and descends along the y axis inside the frame 1.

In this emulsification position, the grease passage channel 27, or emulsification channel, of the central stud 23 of the crank pin 2 is then opposite the connection ports 12a and 12b of the frame 1 thus forming a first fat circulation circuit.

The practitioner can then proceed with the emulsification of the fat by successive round trips of the fat in the syringes S1 and S2 in the conventional manner.

In a step E05, in connection with FIG. 7D, the practitioner modifies the position of the crankpin 2 of the preparation device 100 to switch it to the fat transfer position. For this, the practitioner comes to turn, for example a quarter turn, for example in the opposite direction than previously, the crankpin 2 until the fixing studs 20a and 20b of the crankpin 2 slide in the slides 11a and 11b of the frame 1 to the constriction located at the ends of the slides 11a and 11b which are opposite the ends for maintaining the emulsification position and to clip the fixing studs 20a and 20b into the slides 11a and 11b in order to maintain the transfer position during the transfer step. The rotational movement of the crank pin 2 around the axis y is then transformed simultaneously into a translational movement along this axis of the whole of the crank pin 2 by sliding of the followers 13a and 13b in the movement transformation interfaces 26a and 26b of the central block 23. In other words, the crank pin 2 rotates and rises relative to the frame 1 along the y axis. The central block 23 therefore rotates by a quarter turn in the opposite direction to previously around the axis y and rises along this axis thus rising inside the frame 1.

In this transfer position, base 24 of crankpin 2 is no longer separated by a distance d (d=0) from base 14 of frame 1, but in contact with it. The emulsified fat contained in one of the syringes fixed to the branches of the frame 1 can then be transferred into the syringe fixed to the cover 3. More particularly, in this transfer position the transfer channel 28 of the central stud 23 of the crankpin 2 is then opposite one of the connection ports 12a or 12b of the chassis 1 thus forming a second circulation circuit of the emulsified fat.

In other words, one of the syringes S1 or S2 is a so-called emulsified fat transfer syringe, that is to say that at the end of the emulsification step, the practitioner ensures that all the emulsified fat is in a single syringe (identified by an arrow on the transfer branch) which can be connected to the so-called emulsified fat recovery syringe connected to the cover 3 via the transfer channel 28.

In a step E06, in connection with FIG. 7E, the practitioner then applies pressure to the piston of the transfer syringe, for example syringe S2 connected to branch B of frame 1. The flow of emulsified fat therefore passes from the syringe S2 to the connection port 12b, then through the transfer channel 28 of the crankpin 2 to finish its course in the recovery syringe S3 connected to the cover 3. During the transfer, the emulsified fat passes through the filtering membrane 4 located in the crankpin 2 and held by the cover 3.

The nano-fat obtained by emulsification, then filtration by the preparation device 100 is then recovered in the syringe S3 and is ready for reinjection into the patient in a conventional manner.

The particular shape of the preparation device 100 according to the invention (in Y, once all the elements have been assembled together) allows the practitioner to have a better positioning of his hands and wrists and therefore facilitates the emulsification step. by successive round trips of the grease. The presence of a filtration membrane in one of the branches of the device (formed by the crankpin 2) makes it possible to filter the grease directly after emulsification, without having to change device and therefore remaining in a so-called closed circuit. Thus, the preparation device 100 makes it possible to limit the risks of contamination of the nano-fat obtained. In addition, the integration of the filter directly into a third branch (constituted by the crankpin 2) of the preparation device 100 makes it possible to limit the risks of leaks, in particular linked to a bad connection of the filter.

Claims

1. Device for preparing fat (100) taken from a first area of a patient's body for reinjection into a second area of the body of said patient, said preparation device (100) comprising: - an armature (1) comprising a first and a second branch (A, B) at which a first syringe (SI) and a second syringe (S2) are respectively connected, - a connection element (2) of said first (A) and second branches (B), said connection element (2) fitting into said armature (1), characterized in that said connection element (2) is connected to a third syringe (S3), in that said connection element (2) is designed to assume at least two positions: - an emulsification position in which said connection element (2) forms with said first and second branches (A, B) of said armature (1) a first circulation circuit for said grease between said first syringe (SI) and said second syringe (S2), - a transfer position in which said connection element (2) forms with said first (A) or second branches (B) of said armature (1) a second grease circulation circuit between the first (SI) or the second syringe (S2) and a third syringe (S3), and in that said connection element (2) comprises a filtration membrane (4) of said fat. 2. Grease preparation device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said first and second branches (A, B) of said armature (1) are positioned relative to each other in a form of v. 3. Grease preparation device (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that said first and second branches (A, B) of said armature (1) are positioned relative to each other at an angle ( a) between 45° and 135°, preferably 90°. 4. Grease preparation device (100) according to any one of the claims 2 and 3, characterized in that said first and second branches (A, B) of said armature (1) form a Y with said connection element (2). 5. Grease preparation device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that said first branch (A) forms a first angle (|3A) with said connection element (2) of approximately 112.5°- 157 5°, preferably 135°, and said second branch (B) forms a second angle (|3B) with said connecting element (2) of approximately 112.5°-157.5°, preferably 135°. 6. Preparation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said filtration membrane (4) is held in said connection element (2) by means of a cover (3) fixed to said connection element (2), said cap (3) comprising a connection port (30) with said third syringe (S3). 7. Preparation device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said frame (1) comprises at least one slide (11a, 11b) comprising a first end for engaging the position of emulsification and a second end for engaging the transfer position and in that said connection element (2) comprises a base (24) comprising at least one fixing stud (20a, 20b), said at least one fixing stud being designed to fit and slide in said at least one slide (11a, 11b) until it is blocked in one or the other of the first and second ends, when the the connection element (2) is placed in the corresponding position. 8. Preparation device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that said connection element (2) comprises a central stud (23) fixed to said base (24) and oriented along a longitudinal axis (y) of said armature (1), said central pad (23) comprising at least two movement transformation interfaces (26a, 26b) in which are slid at least one follower (13a) of said first branch (A) and at least one follower (13b) of said second branch (B) of said armature (1) for a transformation of a rotational movement of said connection element (2) with respect to said armature (1), under the effect of a rotational action of said element connection (2) exerted by a practitioner on said base (24) around said longitudinal axis (y), in a translation movement of said connection element (2) along said longitudinal axis (y). 9. Preparation device (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that said central stud (23) further comprises: - a first fat emulsification channel (27) intended to form with said first and second branches (A, B) of said armature (1) said first circulation circuit of said fat between said first syringe (SI) and said second syringe (S2), when said connection element (2) is placed in said emulsification position, - a second fat transfer channel (28) intended to form with said first (A) or second branches (B) of said armature (1) said second fat circulation circuit between the first (SI) or the second syringe (S2) and said third syringe (S3), when said connection element is placed in said transfer position. 10. Method for preparing fat taken from a first area of a patient's body for reinjection into a second area of the body of said patient, characterized in that it uses the preparation device (100) according to claims 1 to 9 and in that it includes the following steps: - a positioning of the connection element (2) in said emulsification position (E04); - an emulsification (E04) of said fat taken by successive and repeated pressures of an operator on said first and second syringes (SI, S2), said pressures causing circulation of said fat in said first circuit of said first syringe (SI) to said second syringe (S2) and vice versa; - a positioning of said connection element (2) in said transfer position (E05) by a change of position of said connection element (2) with respect to said armature (1); - filtration and transfer of said emulsified fat (E06) by pressure from an operator on one of the first or second syringes (SI or S2), said pressure causing circulation of said fat taken from said second circuit through said filtration membrane (4) into said third syringe (S3).