Whole Eyeball Perfusion With Pulsatile Flow for Longer Viability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preserving eyes for transplantation do not adequately address their unique characteristics, necessitating a specialized approach for maintaining viability and shelf life.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for perfusing oxygenated fluid through the eye using a fluid flow loop with a pump, oxygenator, waveform generator, and sensors, along with a control and monitoring unit to maintain optimal conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional chilled storage is used for eye preservation, then the storage method is simple and equipment requirements are low, but the shelf life and viability of the eye are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary oxygenation and perfusion of the eye before transplantation, establishing optimal tissue conditions in advance. The perfusion system is pre-configured with oxygenators, pumps, and monitoring equipment to begin preservation immediately upon procement, preventing ischemic damage before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
A specialized preservation solution acts as an intermediary medium between the eye and the external environment. This solution contains oxygen carriers, nutrients, and protective agents that mediate metabolic support to the eye tissues, extending viability beyond what simple chilling can achieve.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard organ preservation methods are applied to eyes, then the preservation approach is straightforward and easy to implement, but the unique characteristics of the eye are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The preservation system is specifically adapted for ocular tissues with localized perfusion pathways targeting the optic nerve head and retinal vasculature. The cannulation sites and flow distribution are optimized for eye anatomy, providing tailored preservation rather than generic organ preservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts perfusion pressure and flow rates based on real-time monitoring of ocular parameters. The waveform generator creates pulsatile flow patterns that mimic natural ocular hemodynamics, adapting to the specific metabolic needs of different ocular tissues during preservation.
3Reliability
If perfusion is used to extend shelf life, then tissue viability is improved, but the system complexity and operational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor perfusate oxygen content, pH, temperature, and flow rate, feeding this information back to the control system. The waveform generator and pump automatically adjust parameters based on feedback signals, maintaining optimal preservation conditions without constant manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The perfusion system is designed to support multiple ocular tissues simultaneously through a single integrated circuit. The same perfusate solution and flow system can preserve the globe, cornea, and adnexal structures, reducing the need for separate preservation systems for different ocular components.
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
Enhances the shelf life and viability of the eye by mimicking natural heart flow, monitoring critical parameters, and adjusting fluid properties to ensure tissue health.
Implementation Method 1
using the oxygenator to introduce oxygen into the perfusion fluid
Implementation Method 2
using the pump to circulate perfusion fluid through the fluid flow loop
Implementation Method 3
using the waveform generator to impress a preselected waveform profile upon the fluid flow in the fluid loop
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for perfusing an eye or portions thereof, includes: an enclosure configured to provide physical protection to an eye or portions thereof; and a fluid flow loop extending from an outlet connection of the enclosure to an inlet connection of the enclosure, the fluid flow loop including a pump, an oxygenator, and a waveform generator; and at least one sensor operable to sense a parameter of a perfusate flowing within the fluid flow loop and generate a signal representative thereof; and a control and monitoring unit configured to receive.