By-pass Shunt Flow Restrictor for Pediatric Circulatory Assist
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pediatric patients with cardiac output demands that change over time require circulatory assist devices that are adaptable, as conventional mechanical pumps are not compatible with existing components and lack sufficient flow adjustability, especially for neonatal patients.
Innovation Solution
A circulatory assist system with a by-pass shunt that includes an inflow conduit, outflow conduit, and an intermediate conduit fluidically coupling them, featuring a flow restrictor that can be adjusted to change the fluid flow by deforming a compliant portion to alter blood flow distribution between the pump and vascular structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional mechanical pump is used for pediatric patients, then the pump provides adequate blood flow for initial cardiac support, but the pump cannot be adjusted to meet changing cardiac demands as the patient grows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the blood flow output of the mechanical pump to be modified over time. The system includes an adjustable flow restrictor or variable geometry components that enable the pump to adapt its performance characteristics, transforming a static device into a dynamic one that can respond to changing pediatric cardiac demands as the patient grows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying flow resistance characteristics through adjustable restrictors, variable speed drives, or changing operational parameters of the pump. This allows the same pump device to deliver different flow rates and pressure outputs, enabling it to meet the evolving cardiac requirements of pediatric patients without requiring device replacement.
2Productivity
If the pump size is increased to meet greater fluid output demands, then cardiac output is improved, but incompatible cannulae and components from previous implants cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal pump system that can serve multiple pediatric patients of different sizes and stages of development. By incorporating adjustable flow capabilities and standardized interfaces, the same pump device can be used across a range of patients without requiring custom-sized pumps or incompatible components, thereby simplifying the system while maintaining high fluid output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables a single pump device to dynamically adjust its output to meet different fluid demand requirements. Through variable speed control, adjustable flow restrictors, or modifiable impeller configurations, the pump can deliver appropriate flow rates for both smaller and larger pediatric patients, eliminating the need to replace the pump as the patient grows.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple follow-up surgeries are performed to replace the mechanical pump, then the pump capability is updated, but surgical risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static pump system into a dynamic one with adjustable flow capabilities, allowing the same device to adapt to the patient's growth over time. This eliminates the need for multiple replacement surgeries by enabling non-invasive or minimally invasive adjustment of pump performance parameters, thereby significantly reducing surgical risk while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates adjustment mechanisms that can be modified without requiring complete pump replacement. Through accessible adjustment ports, programmable controls, or externally adjustable components, the pump system can be self-adjusted to meet changing patient needs, avoiding the need for repeated surgical interventions and reducing overall surgical risk.
4Productivity
If flow adjustability mechanisms are included in conventional mechanical pumps, then some flow reduction is possible, but the adjustment is not sufficient for neonatal patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements extensive parameter changes capabilities through multiple adjustable flow restrictors, variable speed drives, and modifiable operational parameters. These mechanisms enable the pump to reduce blood flow to very low levels appropriate for neonatal patients, far exceeding the limited adjustment range of conventional pumps. The system can continuously vary flow parameters to precisely match the small cardiac demands of neonates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a highly dynamic flow control system with multiple adjustment points and rapid response capabilities. The pump can quickly and precisely adjust flow rates from high outputs suitable for larger pediatric patients down to very low flows needed for neonates, providing continuous adaptability that conventional fixed-geometry pumps cannot achieve.
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 adjustable blood flow to meet changing cardiac demands without the need for repeated surgeries, ensuring compatibility and reducing surgical risks by allowing for increased or decreased blood flow as needed, thereby improving the quality of life for pediatric patients.
Implementation Method 1
A compliant portion (94) is deformable between a first diameter state and a second diameter state, the former being expanded to a larger diameter than the latter
Data Source
AI summary
A by-pass shunt for use with a bodily fluid pump. The by-pass shunt includes an inflow conduit, an outflow conduit, and an intermediate conduit fluidically coupling the inflow and outflow conduits. A flow restrictor is operably coupled to a portion of the intermediate conduit and is configured to reduce a fluid flow from the outflow conduit, through the intermediate conduit, and into the inflow conduit.