Cardiac Valve Annulus Sizing Device with Expandable Measuring Band
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sizing cardiac valve annuli during prosthetic valve implantation are time-consuming, lack accuracy, and heavily rely on the surgeon's skill, as they require repeated use of sizing obturators that do not accurately assess the internal dimensions of the annulus.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an elongated support member with a measuring band that can expand to adapt to the shape of the valve annulus, providing a more accurate measurement by applying a radial force similar to that of the prosthetic valve, allowing for precise selection and implantation of the appropriate prosthetic valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If repeated use of sizing obturators is performed to estimate annulus diameter, then size assessment is obtained, but the procedure is time-consuming and lacks accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The sizing device divides the measurement function into distinct segments: the expandable measuring band contacts the annulus to provide direct measurement, while the indicator mechanism separately displays the measured dimension. This segmentation allows for more precise measurement without requiring repeated trials with multiple obturators.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary expansion of the measuring band to match the annulus size before final valve implantation. This preliminary sizing action provides accurate measurement data that guides the selection of the appropriate prosthetic valve size, eliminating the need for repeated sizing attempts during the procedure.
2Measurement precision
If traditional sizing obturators are used, then size estimation is obtained, but the procedure relies significantly on physician skill
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring band automatically expands to conform to the annulus geometry when deployed, and the indicator mechanism automatically displays the measured dimension. This self-service functionality reduces reliance on physician skill and technique, as the device performs the measurement and display functions autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces the manual mechanical manipulation of traditional obturators with an automated indicator system that mechanically translates the measuring band's expansion into a readable dimension display, reducing the skill-dependent manual dexterity required.
3Measurement precision
If sizing obturators are advanced to intra-annular position, then more accurate measurement is obtained, but the procedure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device combines multiple functions into a single structure: the expandable band serves both as the measurement element and as the intra-annular positioning element, while the indicator mechanism provides both measurement display and procedural guidance. This multi-functionality achieves accurate internal dimension measurement without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring band is nested within the device body in a contracted state, then expanded into the annulus for measurement. This nesting arrangement allows the device to achieve intra-annular positioning and measurement capability while maintaining a compact structure that does not excessively increase overall device complexity.
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 device enables faster, more accurate measurement of cardiac valve annuli, reducing reliance on surgeon skill and improving the precision of prosthetic valve sizing and implantation, with the measuring band's radial force closely matching that of the prosthetic valve to ensure proper fit and function.
Implementation Method 1
The measuring band has a contracted configuration in which the band is at least partially wound about a transverse axis and an expanded configuration in which the band is substantially unwound
Implementation Method 2
stressing the valve annulus by applying a force similar to that applied by a prosthetic valve
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring an internal dimension of a native cardiac valve annulus includes an elongated support member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A measuring portion is coupled to the distal portion, and an indicator is coupled to the proximal portion of the support member. The measuring portion is biased towards a deployed configuration such that when deployed it applies an outwardly directed radial force to the native valve annulus.