Compression Torque Device for Guidewire Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current torque devices for guidewires in catheter-based interventions require excessive manipulation and attention, leading to unwanted movement and complications due to the need for multiple hand operations and release of components during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A simplified compression torque device with a monolithic actuator and clamping member, allowing one-handed blind operation by pivoting between coupled and uncoupled positions, reducing the number of components and manufacturing complexity, and potentially eliminating metal components for easier production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional torque device is used to manipulate the guidewire, then the guidewire can be controlled and positioned, but the interventionalist must use multiple hands and excessive manipulation which diverts attention from the procedure image and patient
Solution Approach 1:
The torque device is integrated with the introducer to form a single unified device. The introducer and torque device share a common longitudinal axis and are connected such that the torque device can rotate the guidewire without requiring separate manual manipulation of the introducer. This merging eliminates the need for multiple-handed operation and allows the interventionalist to maintain focus on the procedure image and patient while safely manipulating the guidewire.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the torque device is released to reposition the device, then the device can be repositioned, but the guidewire may experience unwanted advancement or retraction which could lead to complications
Solution Approach 1:
The torque device is pre-configured with a ratchet mechanism that allows unidirectional rotation (advance) but prevents reverse rotation (retraction). This preliminary mechanical constraint ensures that when the device is repositioned, the guidewire cannot accidentally retract, eliminating the risk of unwanted guidewire movement during repositioning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
A ratchet mechanism acts as an intermediary between the torque device and the guidewire. This mechanical intermediary allows the torque device to rotate the guidewire in the forward direction while blocking any reverse movement, thus mediating the interaction to prevent unwanted guidewire retraction during device repositioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components (introducer, adaptor, torque device) are used separately, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the number of manipulation steps increases and the possibility of unwanted movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The introducer and torque device are merged into a single integrated device where the torque device is positioned distal to the introducer along the guidewire. The torque device includes a torque member that can rotate relative to the introducer's longitudinal axis, allowing independent torque application while maintaining the structural integration that reduces the number of separate manipulation steps and components.
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 precise control and manipulation of guidewires with reduced risk of complications by allowing single-handed operation without diverting attention from the procedure, potentially reducing procedure duration and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator pivots between a first position and a second position, such that the flexible clamping member extends into the lumen when the actuator is in the first position and does not extend into the lumen when the actuator is in the second position.
Data Source
AI summary
A compression torque device comprises a housing, an actuator, a flexible clamping member and a linear lumen. The housing comprises a body, a handle, a leading portion and an actuator opening. The actuator is operably coupled to the housing at the actuator opening. The linear lumen passes through the housing and is contiguous with the actuator opening. The actuator pivots between a first position and a second position, such that the flexible clamping member extends into the lumen when the actuator is in the first position and does not extend into the lumen when the actuator is in the second position. The actuator and the flexible clamping member may be monolithic. A kit for catheter-based intervention comprises a compression torque device and an adaptor.