Aortic Aneurysm Classification Using Reference Point Distances

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for evaluating and classifying aortic aneurysm morphology are lacking in consensus definitions and simplified protocols, which hinders the success of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) by failing to accurately define and characterize critical sealing segments.

Innovation Solution

A system for defining and classifying aortic aneurysm anatomy using objective and easily identifiable points of reference, where the diameter and relative location of these points are used in a formulaic manner to characterize sealing segments and other anatomic variables, enabling the classification of aneurysms based on measured distances.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current methods for evaluating and classifying aortic aneurysm morphology are used, then the evaluation process is simple, but the accuracy and reliability of treatment evaluation is insufficient due to lack of consensus definitions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of aneurysm morphology evaluationVSAvoidcomplexity of classification system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the aortic aneurysm anatomy into distinct classification categories based on specific morphological features such as neck length, neck diameter, and presence of branch vessels. This segmentation allows for precise characterization of different aneurysm types while maintaining a structured evaluation framework that balances detail with usability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If simplified protocols are used for aneurysm evaluation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to accurately define and characterize critical sealing segments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of aneurysm evaluationVSAvoidreliability of sealing segment characterization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by defining specific measurement criteria and classification rules for different anatomical regions of the aortic aneurysm. Each sealing segment and anatomical feature has its own tailored evaluation parameters, allowing the system to maintain high reliability for critical measurements while keeping the overall protocol streamlined and easy to follow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12236581B2System and method for anatomic classification of aortic anatomy in aneurysms
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY RESEARCH FOUNDATION
  • US12236581B2 patent drawing
  • US12236581B2 patent drawing
  • US12236581B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of anatomic classification of blood vessel anatomy in aneurysms includes the steps of accessing an image of a blood vessel, analyzing the image to identify a point of divergence of the blood vessel and one or more additional points of reference of the blood vessel. One or more distances are then measured between the point of divergence of the blood vessel and at least one of the one or more additional points of reference. The aneurysm is then classified based upon the measured distances. A method of treatment of an aneurysm in a blood vessel further includes implanting one or more devices within the blood vessel for treatment of the aneurysm.