Variable-Diameter Composite Stent for Vessel Bifurcation Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stents face challenges in effectively implanting at or near vessel bifurcations due to issues such as overlapping stents or poor fit with the vessel wall, leading to tissue regrowth and vessel obstruction.
Innovation Solution
A stent design featuring interconnected expandable rings with varying diameters and shapes, connected by minimal connecting units, allowing independent expansion to conform to bifurcated vessel geometry, and utilizing a dual-wire balloon for precise placement and expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional stents with uniform diameter are used, then manufacturing is simple, but they cannot conform to bifurcated vessel geometry leading to poor fit and tissue regrowth
Solution Approach 1:
The stent is divided into multiple rings of varying diameters along its length, with each ring capable of independent expansion. This segmentation allows the stent to conform to the complex geometry of bifurcated vessels while maintaining a manageable structure through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the stent are designed with different diameters and expansion characteristics to match specific anatomical regions. The proximal, mid, and distal sections have customized dimensions to optimize fit at the bifurcation site and along the vessel segments
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stents are used to cover bifurcation areas, then coverage is improved, but stent overlap increases leading to complexity and tissue regrowth
Solution Approach 1:
The stent is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device: it provides coverage at the bifurcation carina, extends into both the proximal and distal vessels, and accommodates the angular geometry of the bifurcation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple overlapping stents
3Manufacturing precision
If stents are expanded to fit bifurcations, then fit quality improves, but expansion control becomes difficult leading to poor deployment precision
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented ring structure allows controlled expansion of different sections independently or in sequence, enabling precise deployment at the bifurcation site while maintaining ease of operation through staged expansion
Solution Approach 2:
The stent is pre-formed with the specific geometric configuration needed for bifurcation coverage, including the varying diameters and angular orientation. This preliminary shaping ensures accurate placement and expansion control during the procedure
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 design facilitates secure implantation at vessel bifurcations, reducing stent overlap and improving patient outcomes by conforming to complex vessel geometries, thus minimizing tissue regrowth and procedural time.
Implementation Method 1
expanding the stent from a contracted configuration to an expanded configuration to secure the stent to the blood vessel wall
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure pertains to a stent that includes a proximal end and a distal end; and a plurality of interconnected and expandable rings positioned adjacent to one another from the proximal end to the distal end. Each ring is connected to and spaced apart from at least one adjacent ring through one or more connecting units. Additionally, the interconnected rings form a cavity. The rings at or near the proximal end include different diameters than the rings at or near the distal end. The present disclosure also pertains to methods of implanting a stent of the present disclosure in a blood vessel of a subject through the following steps: (1) positioning the stent at a desired location within the blood vessel; and (2) expanding the stent from a contracted configuration to an expanded configuration to secure the stent to the blood vessel wall.