Embolization Device Non-Uniform Notch Pattern for Aneurysm Conformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current embolization devices lack the ability to precisely conform to varying aneurysm shapes and sizes, leading to inadequate occlusion of blood flow.
Innovation Solution
The embolization device features a filament or hypotube with a non-uniform pattern of notches along its length, which biases the device to assume a pre-defined shape upon deployment, allowing for precise curvature and occlusion of cavities of different diameters and shapes, achieved through computational design and manufacturing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a uniform pattern of notches is used along the filament, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the device cannot precisely conform to varying aneurysm shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the notch characteristics (depth, width, spacing, orientation) at different locations along the filament to create specific curvature profiles. Each section of the filament has locally optimized notch patterns that bias the device to assume predetermined conformations suitable for different aneurysm geometries, thereby achieving precise conformation without requiring complex assembly of multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetry by using non-uniform notch patterns where notches are deliberately positioned with varying depths, widths, and spacings along the filament length. This asymmetric distribution creates controlled curvature and three-dimensional shaping of the device, enabling it to conform to the asymmetric and varied geometries of different aneurysms while maintaining a relatively simple monolithic structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the embolization device is designed to fit multiple cavity shapes, then versatility is improved, but control over precise configuration in constrained spaces becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing the filament with variable cross-sectional properties and non-uniform notch patterns that allow the device to dynamically adapt its shape in response to the constrained space into which it is deployed. The notch pattern is engineered to provide controlled flexibility and curvature bias, enabling the single device to assume different stable configurations depending on the cavity geometry, thus achieving versatility without sacrificing configuration control.
3Reliability
If conventional coils are used for embolization, then the procedure is simpler, but inadequate occlusion of blood flow occurs in broad-based aneurysms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by incorporating a series of notches along the filament that create localized curvature segments and three-dimensional shaping. This segmented approach to geometry control allows the device to fill broad-based aneurysms more effectively by conforming to complex cavity shapes, thereby improving occlusion reliability while maintaining a relatively simple continuous filament structure without requiring multiple separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
An embolization device including a filament or hypotube having a longitudinal axis extending therein and a plurality of notches distributed in a non-uniform. computationally derived pattern on the filament or hypotube. The pattern of notches at least partially contributes to the shape of the embolization device in a deployed state by selectively biasing the embolization device to assume a pre-defined shape. The pre-defined shape of the embolization device. in turn. is based on the configuration of the bodily cavity in which the embolization device is deployed.