Adjustable Implantable Passage for Reversible Occlusion and Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable devices lack the ability to adjust passage diameter or lumen size effectively, leading to inconsistent treatment outcomes and limited accessibility in medical procedures due to varying patient conditions and responses.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable tubular device with a selectively adjustable passage, facilitated by an elongated element that can untwist a twisted intermediate region, and lumen-controlling plugs to maintain the passage in desired configurations, allowing for controlled flow regulation and selective access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed implantable device is used to occlude or form anastomoses, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the treatment outcomes are inconsistent and cannot be adjusted for varying patient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the tubular device can change its passage diameter from a first diameter to a second diameter through rotation of the tubular member relative to the elongate member. This allows the device to adapt between different configurations (occlusion vs. access) rather than being fixed, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by introducing a controlled mechanical transformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of passage diameter by rotating the tubular device to transform from a first configuration with a first passage diameter to a second configuration with a second passage diameter. This parameter change enables the same device to serve multiple functions (occlusion and access) without requiring multiple different devices, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through a single adjustable component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an implantable device closes off direct pathways to anatomical structures, then treatment efficacy is improved by blocking unwanted flow, but future access to those structures becomes difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamically adjustable occlusion device that can transition from a closed occluding configuration to an open access configuration. The tubular device rotates to change the passage diameter, allowing permanent-appearing occlusion to become reversible. This resolves the contradiction by making the occlusion temporary and adjustable rather than permanent, enabling both effective blocking and future access through the same device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables periodic switching between occlusion and access states through rotation of the tubular member. The device can be rotated to occlude the passage, then rotated again to open the passage for access, and this can be repeated as needed. This periodic action between two states (occluded and accessible) resolves the contradiction by allowing the device to provide reliable occlusion when needed while maintaining the capability for future access.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a non-adjustable occlusion device is used, then the device is simpler to manufacture and deploy, but treatment cannot be personalized or modified based on patient response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a rotational adjustment mechanism that allows the tubular device to change its passage diameter between two configurations. This dynamic feature enables personalization of treatment by adjusting the passage size based on patient response, while the mechanism itself (rotation of tubular member relative to elongate member) remains relatively simple to manufacture compared to more complex adjustable devices.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable device having an adjustable passage therethrough. The passage may be adjustable to occlude or otherwise to regulate access or flow of materials therethrough. An elongated element may be inserted into the passage when in a closed configuration to selectively open the passage. For instance, the implantable device may be a tubular device with a twisted region closing the passage therethrough, and the elongated device may be configured to engage such twisted region and to be rotated to untwist the closed region. An additional tubular device with a passage therethrough may be inserted into the passage of the implantable device to hold open the passage for a selected period of time.