Biodegradable Polymer Stent with Radiopaque Iohexol
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Solution Overview
Problem
Biodegradable polymer stents face challenges with insufficient mechanical strength, uncontrolled degradation, and lack of radiopacity, which complicates their visualization and deployment during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
Development of a biodegradable polymer stent with enhanced mechanical strength through controlled degradation using biocompatible buffers and incorporation of a radiopaque iodinated contrast agent, such as iohexol, to improve visibility during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If biodegradable polymer material is used to make stent, then stent can be temporary and allow subsequent interventions, but mechanical strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by combining biodegradable polymer with radiopaque contrast agent (iodinated compound) and potentially drug substances within a porous structure. This composite approach enhances the mechanical properties and functionality of the biodegradable stent while maintaining its temporary nature
Solution Approach 2:
The stent employs a porous polymer structure that allows for enhanced mechanical strength through increased surface area and structural integrity, while also facilitating drug release and tissue ingrowth. The porous architecture maintains the biodegradable nature while improving overall performance
2Duration of action of moving object
If biodegradable polymer material is used to make stent, then stent can be temporary and allow subsequent interventions, but degradation is uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls degradation by adjusting polymer parameters including molecular weight, crystallinity, and cross-linking density. These parameter changes allow tailoring the degradation rate to match the desired stent duration while maintaining structural integrity during the support period
Solution Approach 2:
The porous structure acts as an intermediary that modulates the degradation process, allowing controlled water penetration and polymer chain scission while maintaining structural stability. The porous architecture provides a buffer that regulates the degradation kinetics
3Duration of action of moving object
If non-metallic polymer based stent is used, then stent is biodegradable, but radiopacity is insufficient complicating visualization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material by incorporating radiopaque iodinated contrast agents (such as iohexol) into the biodegradable polymer matrix. This composite structure provides both the biodegradability of the polymer and the radiopacity of the contrast agent, enabling visualization during medical procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the principle of radiographic visibility enhancement by incorporating high-atom-number elements (iodine) into the polymer structure. This creates radiographic contrast similar to color changes in visible light, allowing the stent to be detected on X-ray and fluoroscopic imaging
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 stent achieves controlled degradation and enhanced mechanical strength, allowing for effective mechanical support and improved radiopacity, facilitating precise deployment and monitoring during medical interventions.
Implementation Method 1
incorporation of a radiopaque iodinated contrast agent, such as iohexol, to improve visibility during procedures
Implementation Method 2
controlled degradation using biocompatible buffers
Data Source
AI summary
A biodegradable polymer stent with radiopacity and a method of making and using a stent with enhanced mechanical strength and/or controlled degradation for use in a bodily lumen is described.