Balloon Catheter Diameter Reduction via Restriction Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for reducing the outer diameter of a balloon catheter in the deflated state often result in stiffening of the balloon, reducing its pliability and making it difficult to navigate through tortuous vessels.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of restriction elements such as bands or rings spirally wrapped or slid onto the balloon, which is then passed through a narrow opening to reduce the outer diameter while maintaining flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the outer diameter of the balloon is reduced by conventional methods, then the catheter can navigate tortuous vessels more easily, but the balloon becomes stiff and loses pliability
Solution Approach 1:
The balloon is divided into multiple folds or segments that can be compacted within a delivery catheter. The balloon comprises a first portion and a second portion that can be folded relative to each other, allowing the balloon to be navigated through tortuous vessels while maintaining the ability to expand to full diameter at the target site.
Solution Approach 2:
The balloon is nested within a delivery catheter in a folded configuration during navigation. The folded balloon portions are contained within the catheter lumen, allowing the system to pass through narrow and tortuous vessels. Once positioned, the balloon is deployed by expanding it from its nested folded state to its full functional diameter.
2Length of moving object
If the outer diameter of the balloon is reduced to pass through stenosis, then the catheter can reach the target site, but the balloon cannot be properly positioned or expanded
Solution Approach 1:
The balloon system transitions dynamically between two states: a compressed folded state for navigation and positioning through stenosis, and an expanded state for the intended intervention. The balloon can be folded during delivery to pass through narrow vessels, then unfolded and expanded at the target site to achieve proper positioning and function.
Solution Approach 2:
The balloon undergoes parameter changes in its physical state during the procedure. It transitions from a small-diameter folded configuration during delivery to a large-diameter expanded configuration at the target site. This parameter change allows the balloon to navigate through stenosis while maintaining the capability to be properly positioned and expanded for the intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for reducing the outer diameter of the balloon (1) of a balloon catheter in the non-expanded state, wherein at least one restriction element (3) is applied to at least a portion of the balloon (1) of the balloon catheter. In this way, the outer diameter of the balloon (1) is thus reduced and, moreover, its flexibility increased.