Expandable Embolic Filter for Precise Placement Across Vessel Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing embolic protection devices are limited in their ability to operate across a wide range of vessel sizes and require significant interaction with vessel walls, lacking precise placement capabilities during deployment.
Innovation Solution
An embolic protection device comprising a guide wire with an expandable loop and filter, along with a dilator, designed to accommodate varying vessel sizes and minimize interaction with vessel walls, featuring a catheter with apertures for imaging and fluid communication, allowing precise placement and deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing embolic protection devices are used, then embolic protection is provided, but the devices are limited to a small range of vessel sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The filter device employs an expandable frame structure that can dynamically change its diameter to accommodate different vessel sizes. The frame transitions from a compressed delivery state to an expanded deployed state, allowing a single device design to function across a broad range of vessel diameters from 4mm to 20mm or more, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size devices
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes shape memory alloy materials (such as nitinol) that change their physical parameters (shape, diameter) in response to temperature or mechanical stimuli. This allows the filter to be delivered in a compact form and then expanded to the appropriate size for the specific vessel, providing adaptability without requiring multiple device configurations
2Ease of operation
If traditional delivery methods are used, then the device can be delivered, but significant interaction with vessel walls occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A separate delivery catheter or sheath is used as an intermediary to deliver the expandable filter to the target location. The filter remains contained within the delivery system during navigation, minimizing direct interaction with vessel walls. Once positioned, the filter is deployed from the delivery catheter to perform its embolic protection function
Solution Approach 2:
The filter structure incorporates flexible, compliant materials that can conform to the vessel geometry without exerting excessive force on the vessel wall. The frame and filter elements are designed to be flexible enough to follow vessel curvature while maintaining their structural integrity for effective debris capture
3Reliability
If conventional filter designs are used, then embolic protection is provided, but precise placement cannot be seen on imaging equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates radiopaque materials (such as barium sulfate or tungsten) that appear distinct on fluoroscopic and other imaging equipment. These radiopaque markers or coatings on the filter frame and elements allow operators to visually confirm the precise placement and orientation of the device relative to the vessel anatomy and treatment site in real-time
Solution Approach 2:
The device integrates imaging-compatible materials and structures that enable optical and radiological detection without relying solely on mechanical positioning systems. The radiopaque features provide visual feedback that complements or replaces mechanical alignment systems, allowing for precise placement verification through imaging
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes apparatuses and methods for an embolic protection system. In some embodiments, the system may include a delivery catheter, an embolic protection apparatus, and a retrieval catheter. In some embodiments, an embolic protection apparatus comprises a wire, an expandable loop connected to a porous filter, and a dilator at the distal end of the device.