Intermittent Compression Vein Dilation Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patients with end-stage renal disease often face challenges with vein dilation for hemodialysis, as many arm veins fail to enlarge sufficiently for effective dialysis, leading to repeated surgeries, prolonged catheter usage, and increased risks due to unpredictable vein enlargement and susceptibility to function loss.
Innovation Solution
The use of intermittent compression, heat, and topical vasodilating agents, applied via a device secured to the patient's limb, to effectively dilate veins for hemodialysis access, with a focus on applying pressure along a narrow band to enhance vein diameter for sustained dilation during and between treatments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a small vein (3mm or larger) is selected for fistula creation, then the procedure can be performed with available veins, but the vein may not dilate sufficiently to maintain function during hemodialysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using intermittent compression therapy before fistula creation to pre-dilate the vein and prepare it for the increased blood flow that will occur after surgery. This preliminary preparation increases the likelihood that the vein will maintain adequate diameter and function during hemodialysis treatments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters of the vein by applying intermittent compression to alter blood flow dynamics and promote vein dilation. The compression device modifies the mechanical and hemodynamic parameters of the vein to achieve the desired diameter increase before surgical connection.
2Shape
If vein exercise techniques (e.g., ball squeezing) are used to increase vein size, then vein enlargement may be achieved, but the process takes 6-8 weeks with unpredictable results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical exercise technique (ball squeezing) with a controlled intermittent compression device that systematically applies and releases compression to the limb. This mechanical substitution provides more consistent and predictable vein dilation compared to patient-performed exercises.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through intermittent compression cycles that alternately compress and release the limb. This periodic mechanical stimulus promotes vein dilation through repeated cycles of compression and decompression, achieving the desired effect more reliably and potentially faster than continuous manual exercises.
3Productivity
If a vein below 10mm diameter is used for hemodialysis, then dialysis can begin with available veins, but the fistula is more susceptible to function loss in a short period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary intermittent compression therapy before fistula creation to pre-dilate the vein to an adequate diameter. This preliminary action ensures that when the fistula is created, the vein is already sized appropriately to handle hemodialysis blood flow, thereby extending the fistula's functional lifespan and reducing the need for early intervention.
4Reliability
If multiple fistula placements or graft procedures are performed to address vein failure, then dialysis access can be maintained, but surgical risks and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary intermittent compression therapy to prepare the vein before fistula creation, increasing the likelihood of long-term success with the first fistula. This preliminary preparation reduces the probability of vein failure and the need for subsequent salvage procedures, grafts, or catheter placements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides beforehand cushioning by using intermittent compression to pre-strengthen and pre-dilate the vein, creating a more robust vessel that can better withstand the demands of hemodialysis. This prior preparation cushions against the risk of early vein failure and reduces the need for multiple interventions.
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
This method improves vein dilation and maintains patency for longer periods, reducing the need for repeated surgeries and extending the lifespan of vascular access sites, allowing for more reliable and efficient hemodialysis treatments.
Implementation Method 1
The compression member is configured to apply pressure along a substantially straight path extending along at least a portion of the length of a limb of the patient
Implementation Method 2
The use of intermittent compression, heat, and topical vasodilating agents, applied via a device secured to the patient's limb
Implementation Method 3
topical vasodilating agents, applied via a device secured to the patient's limb, to effectively dilate veins for hemodialysis access
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for applying focused pressure to a target vessel to dilate the target vessel for hemodialysis.