Annuloplasty Device with Shape Memory Anchors for Sutureless Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current annuloplasty rings and methods for implanting them are complex and require experienced surgeons due to difficulties in accurately sizing and attaching the rings, leading to potential leaks or stenosis if incorrectly sized, and increased surgical time due to suturing, which may discourage less experienced surgeons from performing valve repairs over replacements.
Innovation Solution
An annuloplasty device with an elongate band featuring anchors that can change configuration for secure attachment to the annulus, made from elastic or shape memory materials allowing for adjustable length and sutureless implantation, enabling precise fitting and reduced surgical time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional annuloplasty rings with sutures are used, then secure attachment to the annulus is achieved, but surgical time is significantly increased due to 15-20 sutures requiring multiple knots each
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the suture component from the annuloplasty system. Instead of using traditional sutures to attach the annuloplasty ring to the annulus, the device employs self-contained anchors that directly engage with the annular tissue, removing the time-consuming suturing process while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The anchors are designed to be self-implanting and self-securing. Each anchor automatically engages with the annular tissue through its own structural mechanism without requiring external suturing tools or techniques, allowing the device to attach itself to the heart valve annulus
2Reliability
If annuloplasty ring sizing is performed using current techniques (anterior leaflet measurement, intercommisural or intertrigonal distance), then attachment to the annulus is achieved, but measurement accuracy is compromised due to requiring surgeon experience and knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The annuloplasty device incorporates adjustable sizing capability, allowing the ring to be resized after initial implantation. This dynamic adjustment feature enables less experienced surgeons to implant the device without precise pre-measurement, as the size can be fine-tuned later to achieve the correct fit
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows changing the dimensional parameters of the annuloplasty ring after implantation. The ring can be expanded or contracted to match the actual annulus size, eliminating the need for highly accurate pre-operative measurements and reducing dependency on surgeon expertise
3Strength
If traditional rigid or semi-rigid annuloplasty rings are used, then structural support is provided, but adaptability to the flexible heart valve annulus is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The annuloplasty ring is constructed from flexible materials that can conform to the natural movement and shape changes of the heart valve annulus. This flexibility allows the device to adapt to the dynamic physiology of the heart while still providing the necessary structural support to maintain valve competence
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 device simplifies the annuloplasty procedure by allowing for accurate sizing and quick attachment, reducing the risk of leaks or stenosis and shortening surgical time, making mitral valve repair more accessible to less experienced surgeons and improving long-term valve durability.
Implementation Method 1
the anchor can be converted from the unengaged configuration to the engaged configuration by applying thermal energy at a temperature above the transition temperature of the alloy
Implementation Method 2
the elongate band is formed from an elastic or deformable material, which enables extension of the elongate band by between 5 and 50%
Data Source
AI summary
An annuloplasty device (10) for use in heart valve tissue repair is provided, comprising an elongate band (20) having a plurality of anchors (30) spaced at predetermined intervals along the length of the band, each anchor being capable of assuming an unengaged and engaged configuration, thereby facilitating attachment of the device to the periphery of an annulus.