Self-Expandable Embolic Retrieval Device with Undulating Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices and methods are inadequate for effectively removing embolic obstructions, such as those causing ischemic stroke, from the vasculature, as they lack the necessary flexibility and radial expansion capabilities to navigate tortuous vascular anatomy and engage embolic obstructions effectively.
Innovation Solution
An embolic obstruction retrieval device featuring a self-expandable member with undulating elements forming diagonally disposed cell structures, connected to a flexible wire, which transitions from a compact delivery state to a radially expanded state for deployment within embolic obstructions, allowing for navigation through tortuous vasculature and engagement with obstructions for removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a self-expandable member with undulating elements is used, then the device can navigate tortuous vasculature and engage embolic obstructions effectively, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-expandable member is divided into multiple undulating elements that can independently deform and adapt to the vascular geometry. Each undulating element acts as a separate segment that contributes to the overall flexibility and navigation capability while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The undulating elements are designed to dynamically transition from a compressed delivery state to an expanded functional state. This dynamic transformation allows the device to adapt its shape and size in response to the vascular environment and embolic obstruction characteristics
2Force
If the expandable member is designed with diagonally disposed cell structures, then radial expansion capability is improved for engaging obstructions, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cell structures are arranged in a diagonal pattern rather than a symmetric radial pattern. This asymmetric arrangement provides effective radial expansion force while being more tolerant to manufacturing variations compared to precision-critical symmetric designs
Solution Approach 2:
The diagonally disposed cell structures concentrate radial force at specific locations where engagement with the embolic obstruction is most effective. This localized force application optimizes the radial expansion capability without requiring uniform high precision throughout the entire structure
3Strength
If the undulating elements are interconnected to form cell structures, then the structural strength is improved for capturing obstructions, but the flexibility to navigate tortuous vasculature decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into interconnected cell units that can deform independently while maintaining overall structural integrity. This segmentation allows the structure to bend and flex in response to vascular tortuosity while retaining sufficient strength for obstruction capture
Solution Approach 2:
The cell structures are formed using flexible materials and thin-walled constructions that enable the structure to bend and conform to the vascular geometry. The interconnected nature of the cells provides both flexibility for navigation and structural strength for engagement
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 device enables effective navigation and engagement with embolic obstructions, facilitating their removal by providing sufficient radial force and flexibility to traverse complex vascular anatomy and capture obstructions, thereby addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate self-expandable member movable from a first delivery position to a second placement position, in the first delivery position the expandable member being in an unexpanded position and having a nominal first diameter and in the second position the expandable member being in a radially expanded position and having a second nominal diameter greater than the first nominal diameter
Data Source
AI summary
An embolic obstruction retrieval device including a self-expandable member having a proximal end portion, a main body portion and a distal end portion. Each of the self-expandable portions consists of a plurality of cell structures formed by intersecting strut members. At least one proximal cell structure in the proximal end portion has one or more struts that have a width and/or thickness greater than the width and/or thickness of the majority of strut members in the main body and distal end portions of the expandable member. Attached to at least one of the proximal-most cell structures in the proximal end portion is a proximally extending flexible wire having sufficient length and flexibility to navigate the tortuous vasculature and access the embolic obstruction. In one implementation, the embolic obstruction retrieval device is delivered to the embolic obstruction through the lumen of a delivery catheter.