Bio-resorbable Coated Embolus Filter Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood clot filters lack effective anchoring mechanisms, as locator members cannot hook into the vessel wall before the filter is centered, leading to potential longitudinal migration within the blood vessel.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating bio-resorbable material-covered retainer members on locator and anchor members that slide into position, allowing delayed engagement with the vessel wall for anchoring after the filter is centered, utilizing materials like Nitinol for shape memory and super-elastic properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If locator members are designed to press against vessel walls for centering, then filter positioning is improved, but anchoring capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter members are segmented into different functional zones: distal portions with retainers for anchoring, intermediate portions for filtering, and proximal portions for centering. This segmentation allows each segment to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with other functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The bio-resorbable coating is applied preliminarily to the retainer members before implantation. This coating prevents the retainers from engaging the vessel wall during the critical centering phase, allowing the filter to be properly positioned before anchoring occurs.
2Reliability
If retainer members are exposed to hook into vessel wall, then anchoring is improved, but initial trauma during deployment worsens
Solution Approach 1:
A bio-resorbable coating is applied beforehand to the retainer members to cushion and protect the vessel wall during filter deployment. This coating prevents direct mechanical trauma from the sharp retainers while allowing controlled engagement after the filter is properly positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The bio-resorbable coating acts as an intermediary between the retainer members and the vessel wall. It mediates the interaction by initially preventing direct contact (reducing trauma) and then gradually degrading to allow retainer engagement (achieving anchoring).
3Measurement precision
If locator members press against vessel walls for centering, then filter centering is improved, but longitudinal migration worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The filter structure is segmented into distinct functional regions: distal retainers for longitudinal anchoring, intermediate filtering sections, and proximal centering mechanisms. This spatial segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of centering and longitudinal stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bio-resorbable coating on the distal retainers provides preliminary protection during the centering phase, allowing the filter to be properly positioned against the vessel wall before the retainers engage to prevent longitudinal migration.
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
Enables secure anchoring of the filter within the blood vessel, preventing migration and allowing for safe removal without damaging the vessel walls, while minimizing initial trauma during deployment.
Implementation Method 1
the material is degraded by hydrolysis and then metabolized by the cellular action
Implementation Method 2
the filter is made from sets of elongated shape memory material wires
Implementation Method 3
wires of spring metal can be straightened and compressed within a catheter or tube and will diverge into the filter shape
Data Source
AI summary
A blood clot filter includes a number of locator members and anchor members, each of the members tipped with a retainer encompassed within bio-resorbable cover material. Upon delivery into a blood vessel, the locator and anchor members position the filter near the vessel centerline. After a period of time, the bio-resorbable cover material resorbs, allowing the retainer on the members to penetrate and attach to the vessel wall. A method of implanting the filter includes delivering the filter into a blood vessel and allowing the bio-resorbable cover material to resorb so retainers on the members can engage the vessel walls.