Distal Cap Insert with Radiopaque Markers for Intravascular Device Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging techniques used in minimally invasive cardiac valve replacement procedures face challenges in accurately determining the position and orientation of delivery devices within the heart, which is crucial for proper valve installation and patient safety.
Innovation Solution
The development of devices and methods that incorporate radiopaque markers and echogenic features within the distal cap of an intravascular device delivery system, allowing for precise visualization under x-ray, ultrasound, or echocardiography, to facilitate accurate alignment and positioning of the delivery device relative to the mitral annulus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If imaging techniques are used to guide the procedure, then the ability to visualize anatomy is improved, but the ability to accurately determine position and orientation of the delivery device is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies radiopaque markers that appear distinct under x-ray imaging, enabling the delivery device to be visualized and precisely positioned relative to anatomical structures. These markers create high-contrast visual signals that allow accurate determination of device location and orientation during the procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces radiopaque markers as intermediary elements between the delivery device and the imaging system. These markers serve as mediators that translate the physical position of the device into visible information on imaging screens, enabling precise spatial awareness without requiring direct visualization of the device itself
2Measurement precision
If radiopaque markers are added to the distal cap, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the distal cap into functional components, including the elongate member, rim member, wall member, and radiopaque markers. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with markers added as separate elements that can be positioned precisely without complicating the overall device design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies radiopaque markers only at specific locations on the distal cap where they provide maximum imaging benefit. This localized application of radiopaque material improves position determination accuracy without requiring the entire device to be complex or heavily modified
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
These innovative features enable more accurate positioning of the delivery device, reducing the risk of improper valve installation and minimizing potential harm to the patient, while enhancing the effectiveness of minimally invasive cardiac valve replacement procedures.
Implementation Method 1
radiopaque marker allowing for precise visualization under x-ray
Implementation Method 2
echogenic features within the distal cap of an intravascular device delivery system, allowing for precise visualization under x-ray, ultrasound, or echocardiography
Data Source
AI summary
An intravascular device delivery system has an elongated member, a guidewire receiving member, and a distal cap longitudinally fixed to a guidewire receiving member. The distal cap includes an insert having an elongate member, a rim member radially separated from the elongate member, and a wall member supporting the rim member, the wall member being disposed between the rim member and the elongate member.