Coronary Vasculature Assessment via Pressure-Based Flow Approximation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Routine flow measurements to assess hemodynamic properties in coronary vasculature have not been adopted in clinical practice due to the complexity and lack of robustness of available measurement techniques.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that approximates flow properties from pressure measurements by identifying optimal measurement positions within the vasculature using diagnostic data, allowing for the derivation of diagnostic parameters such as Coronary Flow Reserve (CFR) with high accuracy, leveraging Bernoulli's principle and fluid dynamics models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct flow measurements are performed to assess hemodynamic properties, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and measurement robustness worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pressure measurements as an intermediary to indirectly determine flow properties. Instead of directly measuring flow velocity or volumetric flow rate, the system measures pressure at multiple intravascular positions and uses these pressure values as mediators to calculate flow-related parameters through fluid dynamics models, thereby avoiding the complexity of direct flow measurement while maintaining diagnostic accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical flow measurement systems with pressure-based measurement systems combined with computational models. By substituting complex flow sensors and measurement devices with simpler pressure sensors and algorithmic calculations, the system reduces device complexity while achieving comparable or superior measurement accuracy through the use of fluid dynamics equations
2Ease of operation
If pressure measurements are performed at arbitrary positions, then measurement ease is improved, but measurement precision of flow properties worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the optimal intravascular positions for pressure measurements based on the vessel geometry and lesion characteristics. Before performing the actual pressure measurements, the system identifies which positions will provide the most accurate flow property approximations, ensuring that subsequent measurements are taken at scientifically optimized locations rather than arbitrary ones
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by selecting specific intravascular positions that are locally optimized for measuring particular flow properties. Different positions along the vessel are chosen based on their local characteristics - such as proximity to lesions, vessel diameter changes, or anatomical features - ensuring that each measurement location is specifically suited for the type of flow property being assessed
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 accurate assessment of hemodynamic properties like flow velocity and volumetric flow rate, improving diagnostic insights and treatment planning for coronary artery lesions without direct measurement of flow properties.
Implementation Method 1
Instead of measuring flow properties, such as flow velocity and volumetric flow rate, directly, these properties may be approximated from pressure measurements according to Bernoulli's principle.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for assessing a hemodynamic property in a coronary vasculature and a corresponding method are provided in which diagnostic data of a vessel of interest is used to identify a first and second measurement position at which a first and a second value for a first hemodynamic property may be obtained whereby these first and second values are suitable to derive at least one diagnostic parameter indicative of a second hemodynamic 5 property that cannot or should not be measured directly.