Benchtop Vascular Model for Embolization Hemodynamic Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current validation of transarterial embolization devices relies heavily on animal studies, which are lengthy and financially limiting, and lacks the ability to measure local hemodynamic changes during procedures due to the use of fluoroscopic guidance alone, limiting the understanding of device mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A benchtop vascular model with an artificial artery and branches, equipped with sensors and conduits, allows for the measurement of local pressure, flow, and imaging changes, providing a controlled environment for testing embolization devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If animal studies are used to validate embolization devices, then device efficacy can be assessed, but the process becomes lengthy and financially limiting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a benchtop vascular model that copies the essential hemodynamic characteristics of living vessels, including pressure gradients, flow patterns, and vessel branching. This in vitro model allows repeated testing of embolization devices without the time and cost constraints of animal studies, while maintaining physiological relevance through controlled fluid dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the biological system (animals) with a controlled mechanical system (benchtop vascular model with pumps and sensors). This substitution enables precise control over flow rates, pressure gradients, and embolization parameters, allowing rapid iterative testing and optimization of device performance.
2Ease of operation
If fluoroscopic guidance is used for embolization procedures, then device placement can be visualized, but local hemodynamic changes cannot be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges imaging capabilities with hemodynamic measurement systems in a single integrated benchtop model. The model incorporates transparent vascular structures that allow optical imaging while simultaneously housing pressure sensors, flow meters, and embolization delivery mechanisms, enabling concurrent visualization and quantitative measurement of hemodynamic changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors and measurement devices as intermediaries between the embolization system and the vascular model. These intermediaries (pressure transducers, flow sensors, imaging systems) provide real-time quantitative data on hemodynamic changes without interfering with the embolization procedure or requiring fluoroscopic guidance.
3Measurement precision
If benchtop flow models are used to control flow and pressure, then local hemodynamic changes can be measured, but the models are limited in their ability to control for and measure flow and pressure changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control systems with programmable pumps and adjustable resistance elements that can rapidly modify flow rates and pressure gradients in real-time. The model includes multiple independently controllable vessel segments with adjustable flow resistors, allowing simulation of various pathophysiological conditions and embolization scenarios while maintaining precise measurement capabilities through integrated sensors.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus has a body defining an interior flow path. The interior flow path includes a portion of an artificial artery and at least one branch from the artificial artery. The body includes, in fluid communication with the interior flow path, at least one inlet and a main outlet. Each branch of the at least one branch from the artificial artery includes a respective branch outlet. The body includes a plurality of outwardly extending conduits in fluid communication with, and spaced along, the interior flow path.