Intravascular Filter Echogenic Surface Modifications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices, particularly filters inserted into the body, lack effective echogenic enhancements for improved visibility during ultrasound imaging, which is crucial for precise placement and orientation within the body, especially in intravascular procedures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of enhanced echogenic characteristics on filter components, such as dimples, protrusions, roughened surfaces, and altered manufacturing techniques to introduce cavities or voids, which are designed to improve acoustic reflection and visibility using intravascular ultrasound systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional echogenic materials are used on medical devices, then visibility during ultrasound imaging is improved, but the echogenic characteristics do not keep pace with advancements in imaging ultrasound applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies echogenic materials selectively to specific portions of the medical device rather than uniformly across the entire device. This localized application allows optimization of echogenicity in critical areas while maintaining device functionality elsewhere, enabling adaptation to specific imaging requirements without compromising overall device performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies physical parameters of the echogenic materials and their application methods to enhance ultrasound visibility. By changing parameters such as material composition, layer thickness, and surface characteristics, the device achieves improved echogenic characteristics that keep pace with advancing imaging technology
2Measurement precision
If echogenic enhancements are added to medical devices, then device visibility in ultrasound images is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The echogenic enhancements are divided into discrete segments or portions applied to specific areas of the device. This segmentation allows the echogenic functionality to be added in manageable sections rather than requiring complete device redesign, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining visibility improvements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces echogenic materials as intermediary layers between the device structure and the ultrasound imaging system. These intermediary layers serve as a bridge that enhances visibility without requiring fundamental changes to the underlying device architecture, thus minimizing complexity increases
3Measurement precision
If echogenic materials are applied to entire device surfaces, then comprehensive visibility is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying echogenic materials to entire device surfaces, the patent selectively applies them to specific portions where visibility enhancement is most critical. This localized approach reduces material costs and simplifies manufacturing processes while still achieving comprehensive visibility of key device features during imaging
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 enhancements enable better visualization of filter placement, orientation, and deployment within the body, facilitating more accurate medical procedures and improving the ability to confirm proper positioning and engagement of fixation elements.
Implementation Method 1
enhance the echogenic characteristics of that portion of the filter... enhance acoustic reflection and visibility
Data Source
AI summary
There are described a variety of intravascular filters have wherein at least a portion of the filter has been modified to provide an enhanced echogenic characteristic of the filter.